One of the biggest challenges facing any Summit County visitor is what to pack. Deciding what to bring during our coldest months, or preparing for forty-degree temperature swings during the spring and fall can be an intimidating task. We’re here to help. Below you’ll find what we recommend for any visitor organized by season.
WINTER
Featuring some of our coldest weather and best skiing conditions, packing for a winter visit can be a daunting task as you try to balance comfort, warmth and luggage space. Keep in mind many of the buildings in Keystone offer coin-operated laundry facilities, and some properties have a private washer and dryer.
- start with a tight-fitting, breathable, non-cotton layer (cotton keeps cold close to your skin)
- a variety of socks to be used in layers including wool hikers and ski socks; make sure they come at least to the top of your boots so you’re warm and comfortable
- build out with layers: short and long sleeve tees, sweaters, hooded sweatshirts, fleece and/or thermals a warm hat that can fit under your helmet
- waterproof pants, jackets, gloves and boots
- protect your face from wind and snow with face masks, neckwarmers and/or a scarf
- ski goggles with UV protection and a good fit to keep out the wind and snow; for night skiing avoid dark lenses
- zippers and air vents are a great addition allowing you to adjust to changing temperatures
- sunscreen and lip balm: with 300+ days of sun and dry air you’ll want to protect your skin and hydrate your lips
- off-mountain attire: much of the same as above minus the gear specific to winter sports; you may consider wearing waterproof gloves and boots as you may find yourself outside in the snow
- swimwear: relax and enjoy some time in a hot tub or make use of a heated pool
SPRING
If you’re visiting Keystone in the Spring, be prepared for all kinds of weather. March is often the month with the largest amount of snowfall, and April is not too far behind. It’s not unusual to enjoy a sun-filled day on the slopes and then the next day head out into a snowstorm. The weather is known to change very quickly in Summit County, so be prepared for 40-degree temperature swings, or to wake up to temperatures in the early teens and then be walking around in jeans and a long-sleeve tee by the afternoon. Packing for this kind of weather can be challenging, but we highly recommend that you dress in layers, and this is true for mountain and off-mountain attire.
- layered short and long sleeve tees
- long pants
- socks and shoes: consider the various activities you’ll be scheduling and plan accordingly (hiking boots and moisture wicking socks for hiking; socks that come above your boots for skiing; good quality and well-fitted shoes for outdoor activities)
- light jacket, hooded sweatshirt, sweater, windproof shell and/or scarf for lower temperatures
- rain jacket/poncho
- comfortable clothing allowing for easy movement for any outdoor activities
- a warm hat and a facemask, neckwarmer or scarf: you may need this in case of a storm or temperature drop
- ski goggles with UV protection and a good fit to keep out the wind and snow; for night skiing avoid dark lenses
- waterproof jackets, pants, gloves and boots in case of cold storms
- clothing with vents or zippers so you can adjust with temperature changes
- sunglasses and hats: at such a high elevation, the sun is very strong
- sunscreen and lip balm: with 300+ days of sun and dry air you’ll want to protect your skin and hydrate your lips
- swimwear: relax and enjoy some time in a hot tub or make use of a heated pool
SUMMER
The average daily temperature in Keystone during the summer is 75 degrees with relatively low humidity. Packing seems pretty straightforward, but keep in mind there may be cooler days, and at night it will get chilly. In addition, you’ll want to take into consideration what kind of activities you’ll be participating in when you pack. From horseback riding to golf, to kayaking, ziplining and festivals, there’s lots to do.
- short or long sleeve tees
- light jacket and/or sweater
- shorts for casual activities
- long pants for days with lower temperatures
- rain jacket or poncho
- good quality jeans for horseback riding
- comfortable clothes allowing for easy movement for biking, hiking, ziplining, etc.
- quick-drying clothing for any water-based activities
- socks and shoes: consider the various activities you’ll be scheduling and plan accordingly (hiking boots and moisture wicking socks for hiking; good quality and well-fitted shoes for biking, rafting and horseback riding)
- sunglasses and hats: at such a high elevation, the sun is very strong
- sunscreen and lip balm: with 300+ days of sun and dry air you’ll want to protect your skin and hydrate your lips
- swimwear: relax and enjoy some time in a hot tub or make use of the pool
FALL
One of the most beautiful and tranquil seasons in Keystone is Fall. Area homeowners often claim this as their favorite season due to the changing colors and beautiful weather. And though it’s not consistent, there is a chance of a light snowfall during early Fall, and the ski season generally opens around mid-October at Arapahoe Basin or early November in Keystone. There will be sunny and rainy days, with mild mornings and afternoons and cooler nights.
- layered short and long sleeve tees
- long pants
- socks and shoes: consider the various activities you’ll be scheduling and plan accordingly (hiking boots and moisture wicking socks for hiking; socks that come above your boots for skiing; good quality and well-fitted shoes for outdoor activities) light jacket, hooded sweatshirt, sweater, windproof shell and/or scarf for lower temperatures rain jacket/poncho
- comfortable clothing allowing for easy movement for any outdoor activities
- a warm hat and a facemask, neckwarmer or scarf: you may need this in case of a storm or temperature drop
- ski goggles with UV protection and a good fit to keep out the wind and snow; for night skiing avoid dark lenses
- waterproof jackets, pants, gloves and boots in case of cold storms
- clothing with vents or zippers so you can adjust with temperature changes
- sunglasses and hats: at such a high elevation, the sun is very strong
- sunscreen and lip balm: with 300+ days of sun and dry air you’ll want to protect your skin and hydrate your lips
- swimwear: relax and enjoy some time in a hot tub or make use of a heated pool
