Summer Packing Guide for Winter Park

The days are longer, the sun is shining, and now it’s time to get outdoors and explore the Rocky Mountains! As you pull out the trail maps and start planning your vacation excursions, you’re going to want to pack appropriately for high-altitude adventures. Here’s our travel checklist to help make sure you have all the essentials.

If you’re looking for a winter packing checklist, look HERE!

Psst: Have you set up your basecamp yet? Book trailside lodging at Winter Park Resort to stay steps away from nonstop summer fun.

Book Lodging

Essential Clothes

In the mountains, the days can be beautiful, sunny, and warm, but nights and mornings can get chilly. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing for any weather you might encounter on your trip.

Athletic Gear

If you plan to do any hiking, you’ll want comfy and durable athletic gear. We recommend moisture-wicking materials like Merino Wool instead of cotton. Make sure to pack:

• Long-sleeve shirts to keep the sun off your arms

• Short-sleeved shirts

• Athletic shorts

Looking to add to your mountain adventure wardrobe? Smartwool, available at James and Parry’s, has perfect moisture-wicking athletic gear for any outdoor adventure.

Raincoat

When you’re at high altitude, the weather can change quickly. One moment it can be sunny and the next, rain clouds can roll in. Pack a light rain jacket that you can stuff in your backpack and take out when needed. The North Face has plenty of lightweight, comfortable, and stylish rain jackets to keep you dry on the mountain. When outside in the rain though, make sure to be wary of lightning storms. The US Forest Service has more on what to do if you get caught in a lightning storm.

Down Jacket/ Fleece

Grab a jacket for when the sun goes down. Pack a warm jacket that you can easily take off and store away.

Hiking Boots or Hiking Shoes

If you’re going to be adventuring outside, you’ll need hiking boots. Hiking boots provide more stability and traction so you can easily trek over sticks, rocks, and other mountain obstacles.

Sandals

Sandals can also come in handy on your mountain adventure. There’s no feeling like taking off your hiking boots and switching to sandals after a rewarding hike! If your sandals are waterproof, it’s a bonus because you can wear them in the river or in the lake.

Swimsuit

Although we don’t have beaches, the mountains have plenty of water-related activities. Pack a swimsuit for a nice day at the lake, or on the river.

Extra Socks

Nothing’s better than putting on a fresh pair of socks after a day of outdoor adventuring. We recommend moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet cool and dry (and maybe a little less smelly).

Dinner Outfit

And, of course, you’ll want something for your post-exploration celebration! Pack a pair of nice jeans and a flannel, and you’ll be rocking the mountain chic look. Head to Doc’s Roadhouse after a full day of adventure for innovative dishes, whiskey flights, and more.

Must-Have Accessories

Baseball Cap/ Hat

You came to the mountains to enjoy the outdoors and bask in the sunshine! Chances are, you’ll be outside for most of your trip. Pack a hat to keep the sun off your face. Check out the Winter Park Shop for your new favorite hat (plus lots of other cool gear).

Sunglasses

Your hat should keep the sun off your face, but sunglasses can help keep the sun out of your eyes. Spending all day outside can be straining on your eyes, so splurge on polarized lenses. Find the perfect pair at James & Parry’s.

Backpack

You’ll want to have layers and snacks on your adventures, and a backpack is the best way to store everything.

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. Pack a reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic waste, or pick one up in one of our Village shops. Don’t forget to grab a Winter Park sticker to decorate your water bottle with while you’re here!

Other Necessities

Sunscreen

Just like any other summer getaway, you’ll want to protect your skin. No one wants to start the trip with a sunburn. Pick up a bottle at Trail’s End Mercantile.

Snacks

You’ll be doing a lot of physical activity, so pack some healthy snacks to keep yourself fueled. Granola bars, trail mix, or dried fruit are the perfect summit snack. If you’re hungry after your hike, head to the Winter Park base and stop by Sundog Taproom for 30+ taps and delicious bites like empanadas and flatbreads. Plus, don’t miss out on live music on the patio on Sundays from 2-4pm for happy hour.

Camera

We all have camera phones with great cameras, but keeping a charge on a long day can be a challenge. Bring a backup camera to capture all those mountain memories. We suggest something durable and waterproof, so you can document your adventure.

Hammock

If you’ve got it, bring it. There are plenty of hammock-able spots on the mountain. You’ll be wishing you could swing life away all day. Forgot yours at home? Head to James & Parry’s.

Pre-Trip Prep

Your packing and trip prep starts before you leave! Check out our pre-trip bonus tips.

Drink Water

If you haven’t spent much time at high altitude, your body will need that extra dose of H2O. Start hydrating before you leave and have water with you at all times. (You can grab a reusable water bottle in the Village when you arrive!)

Get Plenty of Rest

Don’t start your trip off exhausted. Get in bed early, so you can seize the day. Book lodging with us, and you’ll wake up just steps away from all the high country action.

Check the Weather

Check the weather within a day or two of leaving for your mountain getaway, so you make sure to pack the appropriate clothing. If you forget anything though, don’t sweat it! You can find everything you need in the Village.

Happy Trails!

Now that you’re all layered up and you have the essentials, it’s time to get out there and find your ultimate Rocky Mountain Adventure. Check out 100 Things to Do in Winter Park This Summer, and if you’re hiking, make sure you’re prepared with our High Elevation Hiking Tips for Beginners.