December Packing List for Colorado Springs — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Heavy Down JacketEssential

  With December lows hitting 14°F in Colorado Springs, a high-loft down jacket is essential for warmth.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  To combat the 14°F overnight temperatures near Pikes Peak, moisture-wicking thermals are vital.

• Waterproof ShellEssential

  With 6 precipitation days expected in Colorado Springs, a waterproof layer handles sudden mountain snow or rain.

• Waterproof Hiking BootsEssential

  The rocky terrain of Garden of the Gods requires boots that can handle moisture from those 6 precipitation days.

• Insulated Winter BootsEssential

  Essential for walking downtown when temperatures drop to the average low of 14°F in Colorado Springs.

• Wool SocksEssential

  Thick merino wool socks are necessary for high-elevation hikes near Pikes Peak where temps hit 14°F.

• UV-Protective SunglassesEssential

  At 6,035 ft in Colorado Springs, intense UV exposure requires eye protection even when it's only 43°F.

• Insulated GlovesEssential

  Necessary to protect hands when Colorado Springs temperatures drop to 14°F.

• Warm BeanieEssential

  A hat is crucial for retaining heat during chilly 14°F mornings near Pikes Peak.

• SunscreenEssential

  High elevation in Colorado Springs means intense UV rays even when temperatures are only 43°F.

Clothing

• Heavy Down JacketEssential

  With December lows hitting 14°F in Colorado Springs, a high-loft down jacket is essential for warmth.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  To combat the 14°F overnight temperatures near Pikes Peak, moisture-wicking thermals are vital.

• Waterproof ShellEssential

  With 6 precipitation days expected in Colorado Springs, a waterproof layer handles sudden mountain snow or rain.

• Mid-weight FleeceRecommended

  Layering is key as Colorado Springs temperatures swing between 14°F and 43°F.

• Smart-Casual SweatersRecommended

  To match the local military-casual style in Colorado Springs while staying warm in 43°F weather.

Footwear

• Waterproof Hiking BootsEssential

  The rocky terrain of Garden of the Gods requires boots that can handle moisture from those 6 precipitation days.

• Insulated Winter BootsEssential

  Essential for walking downtown when temperatures drop to the average low of 14°F in Colorado Springs.

• Wool SocksEssential

  Thick merino wool socks are necessary for high-elevation hikes near Pikes Peak where temps hit 14°F.

• Traction CleatsRecommended

  Help navigate icy trails on Pikes Peak when temperatures drop to the 14°F low.

Accessories

• UV-Protective SunglassesEssential

  At 6,035 ft in Colorado Springs, intense UV exposure requires eye protection even when it's only 43°F.

• Insulated GlovesEssential

  Necessary to protect hands when Colorado Springs temperatures drop to 14°F.

• Warm BeanieEssential

  A hat is crucial for retaining heat during chilly 14°F mornings near Pikes Peak.

• Scarf or Neck GaiterRecommended

  Helps block wind and cold air as Colorado Springs temperatures swing from 14°F to 43°F.

Gear

• SunscreenEssential

  High elevation in Colorado Springs means intense UV rays even when temperatures are only 43°F.

• Reusable Water BottleRecommended

  Staying hydrated is critical at 6,035 ft in Colorado Springs to avoid altitude sickness during the 14°F winters.

• Small DaypackRecommended

  Useful for carrying extra layers as Colorado Springs temperatures swing between 14°F and 43°F.