What to Wear Hiking in Colorado
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The Colorado Hiker’s Capsule Wardrobe
The whole “what do I wear” struggle is real, particularly when it comes to Colorado hiking. Coloradans are known to say “yep, four seasons in a day!”
Spend any time with the local Coloradan and you’ll quickly learn that we are prepared for any type of weather at any time of the year.
How do you know what to wear hiking in Colorado?
Between the altitude, elevation gain, and changing weather you could be hauling 20 lbs of gear without adding water and snacks. And we know snacks are THE most important part of a hike right? Wink!
We are here to help and have your Colorado hiking checklist loaded and ready!
As seasoned Colorado hikers with over 40 years of combined trekking experience, we’ve learned a few tricks from the school of hard knocks.
Let’s just say packing extra underwear and a garbage bag are now on the “must have at all times” list. Curious about why? Keep reading…it was a lesson I hope to never repeat.
Colorado Trail via Searle Pass
Knowing what to wear hiking in Colorado is easy with our simple recipe for the BEST COLORADO HIKE
Essential Gear + Proper Clothing = One Stellar Colorado Hike
While we can’t guarantee you won’t encounter Colorado’s crazy weather, or lose your way on the trail, using the packlist as your guide will sure help you stay comfortable on the trail no matter where you head.
Windy Ridge Hike near Steamboat Springs, CO
Summer hiking in Ouray, Colorado
A Ditty for Your Duds
Before you head out the door on the Colorado hiking trails, sing this little preschool ditty.
“Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes, eyes and ears and mouth and nose….”
Head: sun protection and warmth
Shoulders: Upper body coverage - think layers
Knees: Hiking pants or hiking shorts preferably year round. Add in long underwear for those crisp Colorado winter days.
Toes: Wool socks and hiking shoes/trail runners
Eyes: Sunglasses, sunscreen
Ears: beanie, buff
Mouth: Chapstick
Nose: lather up with that sunscreen
It’s a silly song but like most things, it sticks in your head ad nauseum and just might save you some pain. A prepared hiker is a happy hiker.
Hiking Four Pass Loop near Aspen, CO
The Colorado Hiker’s Basic Pack List
Let’s dive into what to wear hiking in Colorado with the CoHH hiking checklist.
But first, don’t forget to look at the weather. Weather of course is a huge component to the things you wear on your body and what you carry on your back. Coloradans make fun of themselves all the time - we love our outdoor brands. And for good reason. Good gear can take you through miles of trails.
Most of what to wear hiking in Colorado is affordable and readily available. Between consignment stores and regular REI sales, you can land that Patagonia puffer for around $100 and wear it year round.
Summer hiking in Eagles Nest Wilderness, Colorado
Basic Packlist
Top - wicking (polyester, wool or nylon) *Keep cotton at home.
Bottom layer - comfortable but sturdy (shorts can be worn under pants)
Jacket - pick one that packs up small and is water and wind proof
Gloves
Brimmed Hat
Bandana or Buff
Hiking shoes or hiking boots *Check out our full review of all types of boots and shoes.
Moisture wicking underwear (and everything else) - think polyester, nylon, merino wool
CoHH Tip! Each season is a mashup of this packing list.
As you hike Colorado throughout the seasons, add or remove based on our recommendations, the Colorado trails you plan to hike, and your personal preference.
Grab our Guide to backpacking Colorado trails
For those eager to explore the wilder side of Colorado, we have valuable insights into gearing up for unforgettable backpacking adventures in the Centennial State. When gearing up for backpacking Colorado trails like hitting up the Colorado Trail near Kenosha Pass or the Four Pass Loop near Aspen, versatile clothing becomes your secret weapon. Colorado's ever-changing weather calls for intelligent layering, from moisture-wicking base layers to insulating warmth and a reliable waterproof shell.
But wait, there's more – we've packed this list with local insider tips and tricks to make your journey even smoother. Get the scoop on what essential backpacking gear to bring on your next adventure and conquer Colorado in style!
Tanner Trail during a foggy spring hike
What To Wear Hiking Colorado in the Spring
Let’s start at the top, literally - your head. Sun protection is paramount, not matter what time of year you’re enjoying hiking Colorado trails. Hiking clothes come in all types of materials.
Avoid cotton at all costs.
Save that awesome tourist “I’ve been to Colorado and conquered the Manitou Incline” t-shirt for post-hike bragging rights.
Layers are your friend this time of year. Spring typically brings the most moisture. Think rain, sleet, and snow in one afternoon!
Hiking Ute Valley Park in Spring
Show up in hiking shorts and you’ll fit right in with the locals who think 40s is warm. We recommend spandex capris or leggings because MUD.
Spring season is synonymous with mud season. You’ll find yourself slogging through layers of dirty sludge on many of the trails. Some days you’ll have clear trails for miles, only to come up to large snow packs.
Traction, such as spikes or Yaktrax and gaiters along with trekking poles help navigate these obstacles with ease.
Let’s talk toes (and feet)
As one NOLS W.O.L.F. teacher shared, you need to break your feet in, not your shoes. Warm feet are happy feet. Blister free feet dance a jig. In order to have both, you need a few things in your tootsies arsenal.
First up - wool socks. We’re biased toward Darn Tough Socks. Not only is this company committed to an amazing product, they care about our planet, working towards sustainable practices.
Second and no less important - make sure you have proper footwear that fits well. In the world of the internet, there are so many opinions out there. While we don’t claim to be the best, we sure have tried a lot of shoes. Check out our full post on hiking shoes, boots or runners. We did the homework for you already.
With over 40 years combined hiking experience (day hikes and backpacking both domestic and international) we definitely have some tried-and-true current favorites.
Mt Ida summit in Rocky Mountain National Park
Protect those eyes of yours with sunglasses. While you’re at it, don’t forget the sunscreen. You’re closer to heaven so keep that baby soft skin of yours intact with SPF of at least 30.
Springtime in the Rockies means wind and lots of it.
Think gale force hurricane wind that makes you want to find all the pine studded sheltered trails to explore. Bring a warm winter hat to stuff in your daypack. Or try out a CoHH favorite - the Buff; it helps keep dirt and debris off your face.
Don’t forget the chapstick with SPF. Buy it in bulk. You’re welcome.
Finally - while not hiking clothes, tissue should be top of your list for hiking gear. Yep, we’re talking the same stuff that was a HOT commodity just a few years ago - the basic TP roll.
The constant change in temperature along with spring allergies will have you stuffy and sneezing. *Melody wraps a bandana around her wrist. Easy access and reusable!
CoHH Tip! Bring a small plastic ziplock bag and disposable glove for trash. As the snow melts, we often find bits of trash along the trail buried in winter snow. PICK IT UP!
We are big fans of Principle 3 of Leave No Trace - Dispose of Waste Properly.
Did you know hiking hygiene has gone green? Mycelium Tabs are the answer nature's call on a hike. Dig a hole, get big business done, throw in a tab and ta-da, this tiny mycelium tab converts your waste into mushrooms!
Tanya wearing her Spring Hike Layers
Spring Hiking Checklist
(Add to Basic Packing List)
Midlayer
Vest - Melody loves her Smartwool Vest while Tanya lives in Patagonia’s puffer vest.
Traction: Spikes or YakTrax
Spring Essential Hiking Gear Tips
Gators make spring hiking downright enjoyable. Put those suckers on and keep on the trail.
Yep, we said stay on the trail despite the mud. Most of the trail damage is done during this season because people don’t want to get their feet wet or their legs muddy.
However, basic science tells us that if we trample on places that are slimy or muddy, we will create erosion. That does nothing for our trails, and for the people who are coming after us who want to enjoy this beautiful space as well.
Gaiters keep the mud from sloshing inside your boots. Your car thanks you for keeping it clean post-hike.
Learn how to hike responsibly through mud season. Early morning treks are best as the ground tends to be cold from the evening cold.
Springtime in the Rockies brings crazy heavy wet winter storms. Knowing what to wear hiking can be dicey - the weather constantly changes.
Keep clothing layers in your daypack and include hand warmers and an extra pair of wool socks.
When those storms hit, they are often fast, furious and sudden! Download your maps before heading out.
We are fans of map apps. COTREX and All Trails Pro are two that work great, if you download the maps. However, consider going old school and carrying an actual map.
Melody using Pocket Pal Maps near Palmer Reservoirs
Yep! Technology is great until it’s not. PLUS, paper maps often have more trails marked, making it fun to adventure and check out some new trails.
We recently discovered Pocket Pals Trail maps. They are tear and water resistant, fold up to the size of a 3x3 square and have so many trails not located on All Trails app. With great trail descriptions on the back, giving you waypoints for reference, these maps are now always in our backpacks.
PROMO CODE: “10%OFF” gets you 10% off all maps. Prices vary but average $7-10/map plus download.
Storm brewing over Pikes Peak Mountain in Colorado Springs
When a storm blows in, visibility decreases very quickly. If you don’t have a map and/or service and/or a battery, you might find yourself in a dire situation very quickly.
Get comfy with Hiker Safety 101
Check the weather before heading out. We love a great snowy hike BUT not if a blizzard is coming in quickly. *Which happens a lot during Springtime in the Rockies.
Share your hiking plan with someone. Always make sure someone knows where you are hiking and when you expect to be back.
Print and leave a paper copy of the planned hiking trail on the seat of your car at the trailhead.
Bring water and snacks along with an emergency blanket.
Bring a backup battery. We are partial to solar batteries as Colorado’s sun keeps it fired up for most hikes.
Keep tabs on the weather. Cold temps can do a number on many things; your body and your phone battery. You might go in hundred percent charged only to find yourself at 2% just an hour later.
Related Link:
Read through these beginners hiking tips especially if you’re a flatlander.
If you’re on the fence about what jacket to buy that works year round for Colorado hiking, check out the Patagonia Nano Puff. We are huge fans of this versatile, durable and eco conscious jacket. While the price might seem steep, we both have owned and used ours for years!
Four Pass Loop, Colorado
What to Wear Hiking in Summer in Colorado
For three blissful months (four if you’re lucky!), the world is your oyster on the Colorado hiking trails. Thru-hikers are working on mastering the Colorado Trail, backpackers are working their way through bucket list weekend loops (any Four Pass Loop finishers out there?) and day hikers are conquering 14ers, one peak at a time. Knowing what to wear in Colorado summer months can be really tricky depending on where you’re headed.
July and early August declare wildflower glory, bathing mountain tops in shades of reds, oranges, yellows, blues and purples. The streams are flowing and the grass is lush, perfect for an lazy afternoon of outdoor adventure reading in your hammock.
In recent years, I’ve found the key to conquering what to wear in Colorado summer comes down to layering and carrying.
Hiking down Buckskin Pass near Aspen, CO
Colorado in the summer is basically perfect UNTIL weather hits. Head on any Colorado trail around noon on a summer day and you’ll see delighted hikers happily trekking in shorts, Chacos and tanks because that’s what you wear hiking in hot weather right?
Stick around long enough and those same people might be shivering and longing for hot chocolate when the afternoon heavens open and the temperatures plummet to the 50s.
Rocky Mountain National Park awe
While comical to narrate, there is nothing funny about experiencing hypothermia in the middle of summer. It comes on fast and can ground the most fit hiker.
Hypothermia is an issue year round in Colorado. Pay particular attention to the type of layers you wear. We are huge fans of Smartwool because of this. Even when they get wet, you still feel warm.
Wildflowers near West Maroon Pass
Remember we mentioned extra underwear and a garbage bag?
When Melody was running the Pikes Peak Ascent in early August, a freak sleet storm came out over the mountain. Not only did half the runners have to turn around, many of them suffered hypothermia at the summit.
One of the things she had in her hydration pack was a large garbage bag. She donned that sucker and made it to the top staying relatively dry. Yep, a cheap large garbage bag made all the difference in that race.
As for the extra underwear, well altitude can do a number on your body.
As one hiking guide shared years ago, you’re either a burper or a squeezer. Yep, that ‘ole GI tract moves pretty quick on long hikes and trail runs.
We’ll let science explain it better here.
It really sucks to have to use socks and extra t shirts along with some serious butt cheek squeezing to finish a trek, or in Melody’s case, the Steamboat Springs Marathon.
You never know when your body needs a cathole or WAG bag stat. If you don’t quite make it, extra undies are key to ending the hike on a more pleasant note.
And moving on….
Wear the right clothes and you should be good to go on those long Colorado hikes. Oh, and don’t forget to pack your day pack with a few extras!
Hiking near Steamboat Springs
Colorado Summer hiking - Melody wore four seasons on one 7 hour hike
Summer Essential Hiking Tips
Don’t stray from your group. It’s important to have a few backpocket “just in case” plans, especially if you’re out with a larger group (or rambunctious tweens).
Whistle while you hike - or in this case, just have one. That sucker can scare animals and people as well as alert others to where you might have gone in case you’ve separated from the group. CoHH Tip! The universal distress code is three short blasts, about 3 seconds each.
Wear bright colors. This is especially good in the fall when hunting season starts up.
Check the weather and then start early! Thunderstorms and lightning move in quickly - usually around noon.
Consider carrying a satellite safety device (Garmin inReach mini is a good contender: easy to use, relatively cheap and small)
Bring extra water and food. Hey, M&Ms and pretzels most certainly count as food. Not so sure about that celebratory can of beer for the summit…but heck, it’s carbs right?
Related Links:
Relax at Glenwood Springs geothermal pools after hiking to some amazing waterfalls!
Hiking in and around Breckenridge in the summer is magical.
If you plan on hiking in Aspen, don’t forget to add a trek to Maroon Bells on your must do list!
Rock hopping at Castlewood Canyon
What to Wear Hiking in Fall in Colorado
Fall season tends to start late August/early September in the mountains, ending in October for lower altitude areas. It’s super short but honestly, our favorite time to hike Colorado trails.
The gold aspens along with red and orange scrub oak is breathtaking against the evergreen pine trees. Along with miles of roads to leaf peep, the Colorado trails take on a whole new look these few weeks.
Explore our favorite fall hikes and drives in colorful Colorado. With miles of leaf-peeping roads and enchanting trails, this season offers a perfect opportunity for an unforgettable autumn adventure.
Women’s Forest Trail near Divide, CO
For the most part, the weather is consistent.
Warm during the day and cold at night. Layers, as we continue to repeat, should be your fall mantra. You’ll want to throw in a few more mid layers in your pack along with a beanie for those windy days.
We always have hiking gloves in our packs for those sneaky windstorms and super chilly fall mornings.
To be honest, knowing what to wear hiking in fall in Colorado is super simple. Our hikes, even the long ones, have us in a tank top, convertible cargo pants, long sleeve lightweight shirt, fleece pullover, and puffer vest.
Colorado’s brilliant sun soaks in, creating fantastic warmth along open trails. If you start your hike in the morning, you’ll be downright chilly. However, give yourself a few miles and you’ll heat up quickly on the Colorado trails.
The ability to take layers off and on quickly gives you more time for leaf peeping and hammock napping.
However, if you want that Colorado hiking outfit for fall, bring along a large flannel, don a pair of Blundstone boots and post those pics to social media. We won’t judge!
Free Fly’s fall line is perfect for hiking Colorado trails in the fall
Fall Hiking Checklist
(Add to Basic Packing List)
Midlayer *This hoodie is perfect for those on again/off again weather moments!
Vest - Melody loves her Smartwool Vest while Tanya lives in the Patagonia puffer vest.
Gaiters
Lightweight pants *Free Fly’s High Mile Joggers are the perfect pant for fall hiking!
Lightweight fleece *we are partial to the Patagonia T fleece pullover
Traction: Kahtoola Micro spikes or YakTrax *Full Review on Melody’s favorite Kahtoolas
Fall Essential Hiking Gear Tips
Plan hiking days during the week vs. the weekend. Same for leaf peeping drives. You’ll avoid a lot of people, cars and long waits.
Hike exposed trails you’ve avoided during the hot summer months. The wind tends to be moderate vs. spring’s hurricane gale forces.
Treat yourself. Throw in a flask of hot chocolate, coffee or whiskey. Build in extended time to sit back, soak in the sun, and smell the leaves.
Related Links:
Follow Colorado’s Fall aspens in and around Denver and Colorado Springs
Explore Castlewood Canyon, one of Colorado’s best kept secrets, especially in the fall!
Snowshoeing around Palmer Reservoirs
What to Wear Hiking in Winter in Colorado
Beautiful white snow, brilliant sun and less people on the trails makes winter hiking amazing. Popular trails, heck even the Manitou Incline, are free of tourists. This makes them the perfect time to explore and experience views otherwise blocked by groves of people.
That said, winter hiking requires more gear and preparation. You’ll be carrying more weight - think 5-8 lbs - of just in case essential hiking gear. While that might seem excessive, if you find yourself in a freak winter storm or lost on the trail, you’ll be thankful for that extra weight.
Alter your basic packlist to play in the fourth season.
Winter Hiking Checklist
(Add to Basic Packing List)
Wool long sleeve layer
Waterproof gloves/mitts (We wear Smartwool liners and a recyclable wool mitten over)
Long underwear or thin leggings to wear under water resistant hiking pants
Midlayers
Traction: snowshoes or skis for deep snow, spikes for icy trails
Warm winter beanie (hat)
Trekking poles as needed *Black Diamond carbon collapsible poles are on every hike with us.
RELATED LINK: Hiking poles are your trailside super power!
Snowshoeing at the Palmer Reservoirs just north of Colorado Springs.
Winter Essential Hiking Gear Tips
While we’re talking about what to wear hiking in winter, let’s address a few quick essential, non clothing items to carry shall we?
Traction
We don’t mean the old fashioned lying in the bed hospital kind. That’s what you are trying to avoid. Bring snowshoes for deep snow and micro spikes for that ice that lurks invisible just under that luscious layer of white snow. It’s easy to slip out and land on your hip or arm which creates a lot of time in physical therapy. No thanks!
Tanya cross country skiing in Leadville, CO
Trekking poles
They are helpful anytime of the year but especially in winter. Melody’s college daughter sang their praises this summer while backpacking Four Pass Loop. Nope, trekking poles are not just for old people! Let’s make them hip! They can help you avoid postholing, which will save you a lot of time and effort.
What is a post hole anyway? No, we’re not talking about getting triggered when someone points out your social media grammar errors.
In the world of winter hiking, postholing means you’ve found yourself hiking knee or thigh in snow, sinking so deep in that white stuff you’re working hard to get out. It’s downright miserable.
Emergency Mylar Blanket
Always have one your day pack. Tiny on size but big on warmth for emergency situations.
Colorado capsule winter wardrobe on the trail
Personal Protection
Melody carries pepper spray on all her hikes in and around Colorado Springs. Years ago she found Damsel in Defense pepper spray. It’s a handy dandy glove that slips on your fingers, giving you constant access to the on/off button without requiring work to hold it on your hike or run.
CoHH Note! Damsel in Defense has adopted homes in India and Thailand for former sex trafficked girls. The purchase of your protection helps bring safety to these girl. That’s a pretty awesome BOGO in our opinion.
Carry a whistle
Loud noises scare animals and people alike. Our favorite Osprey daypack has one built in to the chest strap. Most packs do - check yours!
Wildlife Sightings
Look for wildlife signs at trailheads. If there is a note that says “Bear Area” bring your bear spray for pete’s sake. Let's practice some common sense shall we?
Speaking of wildlife - Employ the Thumb Rule. If you can cover the entire wild animal with your thumb, you’re at a safe distance (usually 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from large animals.)
Related Links:
Explore South Colorado Springs best hikes from one trailhead in North Cheyenne Canyon Park
Grab your snowshoes and get moving on one of these (no so) secret snowshoe trails within an hour of Colorado Springs
Tackle Colorado’s most famous outdoor stair climber - The Manitou Incline and her two little sisters
Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park
What Else Do You Need for a Great Colorado Hike?
This post is all about what to wear hiking in Colorado right?
Once you have that wardrobe wrapped up, make sure you know what to pack for a day hike. Knowing what to wear hiking in the summer, fall, spring, or winter is important!
However, you need a few other things to make the day flawless!
Check out how to make your own first aid kit and learn blister care 101. Read about how to demystify electrolytes and overcome altitude headaches. Don’t forgot those tasty trail mixes and salty treats. And most importantly, grab one of Colorado’s many tasty craft beers.
You earned it!
Admiring one of many waterfalls along Cascade Creek Trail near Winter Park, CO
Bring a Backpack
These hiking daypacks work hard like you do, so get one that fits!
We think hiking should be a low cost sport. That said, taking your childhood Minecraft backpack might give you some serious fame on social media. However, your back won’t think that’s worth it in the long run!
Check out some of our favorite CoHH daypacks. While you’re at it, take Osprey’s Packfinder quiz. In under 5 minutes, you’ll know what kind best serves your hiking needs.
We are partial to the Osprey Sirrus, going on year 5 of near constant use with nary a rip. Our husbands each own one as do Melody’s kids!
Related Links:
Essential Gear for a Day Hiking Trip
Hiking Daypacks that Work as Hard as you Do (*what kind of daypack do you even need?)
Colorado Springs Breweries - all the beer all over town
Electrolytes are a Colorado hiker’s best friend
Hiking to Mirror and Crater Lake near Winter Park, CO
Essential Gear for a Colorado Hiking Day
First aid kit, blister care, food and water! Come along and pack your daypack with all you need for a fantastic Colorado day hike!
Leave your perfume and portable speaker at home.
Bask in your own body odor - you earned that smell and soak in nature’s sounds.
Exploring Steamboat Springs, CO
Final Note!
Our experiences are that - our own. Some of you love carrying a single water bottle and hoping for the best of weather. Go forth! It’s your hike.
However, here’s the deal with the whole debate about minimalist gear vs. preparedness. A pound or two for a day hike isn’t a big deal until you’re out on a trail, missed a turn and found yourself stumbling away from your car.
Whether knowing what to wear in Colorado summer months or having an epic winter snowshoe hike, having a few extra layers in your backpack along with water could save you from an uncomfortable night or even your life.
Grab affordable gear second hand - save the environment and your wallet!
Check out the CoHH Ultimate Outdoorsy Gift Guide.
We only recommend gear we own and use regularly. Speaking of using gear, we are both members of REI Co-Op.
Here’s why….
REI Co-Op Membership
For just one payment of $30, you get a lifetime membership with so many perks.
Free Shipping, no minimums required
Early access to limited-edition gear
20% off bike and snow shop services
10% back annually on eligible purchases aka “The Dividend”
Buy and Trade in Used Gear
Right before Melody backpacked through Europe in the late 90s, she bought a REI membership. This college purchased has turned out to be the gift that keeps giving. There are few memberships that expect so little and give so much.
As each of her kids graduate from high school, they are gifted their own membership. Not only does it help for gift giving, all purchases are kept in their account, making returns and future purchases a snap.
