Colorado at 5,280 feet is not like sea level. The air is thinner, the sun is strong, and a clear afternoon can become a freezing evening. A good cold-weather tailgate is mostly about preparation. This is a fan guide, not an official safety standard, so always follow venue rules and posted signage.
How Altitude Changes Cooking
At elevation, water boils at a lower temperature, so boiled and simmered food can take longer to cook through. Grills also burn with less oxygen, so give fuel a little extra time to catch and settle. The simple fix is a reliable meat thermometer: cook to safe internal temperatures rather than guessing by time or appearance.
Cold air also steals heat. Food cools quickly on a table, so keep it covered, wrap items in foil and a clean towel, and use an insulated cooler for hot food just as you would for cold. A slow cooker plugged into a safe power source, where allowed, is not always practical in a lot; a well-insulated pot of chili is a better bet.
Wind Is the Real Opponent
Wind sucks heat from a grill, blows ash and scatters paper plates. Position your cooking area so the wind does not push flames toward people, tents or neighbors. Keep your grill stable and never leave it unattended. Use weights on napkins and tablecloths.
Fuel and Fire Safety
Check propane tanks and connections before you leave home. Keep grills away from tents, vehicles and other people. Never use a grill or heater in an enclosed space, as carbon monoxide is a silent danger. Carry a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water, and let coals cool completely before disposal. Venue rules on grills, propane and heaters vary, so read the posted signage and follow staff directions.
Staying Warm and Hydrated
Dress in layers: a base layer, an insulating layer and a windproof shell. Add warm socks, a hat and gloves. Hand warmers are cheap and effective. Do not forget sun protection even in winter, since altitude makes the sun intense and snow or pavement can reflect it.
Cold, dry air dehydrates you faster than you think. Keep water on hand, and balance every beer with a glass of water. Alcohol can make you feel warmer while actually making it harder for your body to regulate temperature. Drink responsibly, and arrange a designated driver before the day begins.
A Cold-Weather Packing List
- Meat thermometer, tongs and extra fuel
- Foil, towels and an insulated food cooler
- Windproof shell, hat, gloves and spare socks
- Hand warmers and a blanket
- Thermos with a hot drink, soup or cocoa
- Water and non-alcoholic options for everyone
- Trash bags and a tarp
When temperatures drop sharply, check on children, older fans and anyone not dressed for the weather. If someone gets too cold, move them somewhere warm and seek help. There is no shame in watching the second half from inside a warm space.
Finally, plan your trip home. Roads can be icy, and I-70 and the metro highways can slow quickly in a storm. Check conditions before you leave, give yourself time and let a sober driver take the wheel.