It’s weird how it affects people differently. I’ve lived at 6000’ for two years now, and when we go to our cabin at 7400 my head gets a little swimmy the first day. When I lived at sea level, anything above 5000’ would make my head miserable.
And I believe your body can reach “critical mass”, and you’re screwed from ever going high again. I used to run with a guy (lived at sea level) who spent alot of time in the mountains, even ran Hardrock a few times. Never bothered him until one trip he got sick and now can’t go above 10000’ without needing medical attention.
Getting and staying in shape will defintily help with hiking and packing, but it doesn’t really address the core issue of operating with less oxygen. I’ve also heard that viagra will work for a quick fix, but I don’t think that would be a viable option for a week long hunt.
