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

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Heavy Down JacketEssential

  With January lows hitting 14°F, a heavy down jacket is essential for staying warm while exploring Colorado Springs.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  Moisture-wicking thermals are vital when temperatures drop to 14°F during early morning excursions in the city.

• Waterproof Rain ShellEssential

  A waterproof shell is necessary to handle any of the 6 precipitation days that can occur in Colorado Springs's winter climate.

• Waterproof Hiking BootsEssential

  Sturdy, waterproof boots are needed for the rocky terrain of Garden of the Gods, especially if it rains during one of the 6 precipitation days.

• Insulated Winter BootsEssential

  Insulated boots are a must when navigating icy sidewalks as temperatures drop to 14°F in Colorado Springs.

• Wool SocksEssential

  Thick wool socks keep feet warm and dry during the 14°F mornings typical of January in the city.

• UV-Protective SunglassesEssential

  The high elevation of Colorado Springs means intense UV exposure is a factor even when temperatures are only 43°F in January.

• Insulated BeanieEssential

  A warm beanie is necessary to prevent heat loss during the freezing 14°F nights in Colorado Springs.

• Thermal GlovesEssential

  Gloves are essential for keeping hands warm when temperatures dip to 14°F near Pikes Peak.

• High-SPF SunscreenEssential

  Because of the 6,035 ft elevation in Colorado Springs, you need SPF to protect against intense UV rays even during 43°F days.

Clothing

• Heavy Down JacketEssential

  With January lows hitting 14°F, a heavy down jacket is essential for staying warm while exploring Colorado Springs.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  Moisture-wicking thermals are vital when temperatures drop to 14°F during early morning excursions in the city.

• Mid-weight FleeceRecommended

  A fleece layer helps manage temperature swings between the 14°F lows and 43°F highs common in Colorado Springs.

• Waterproof Rain ShellEssential

  A waterproof shell is necessary to handle any of the 6 precipitation days that can occur in Colorado Springs's winter climate.

Footwear

• Waterproof Hiking BootsEssential

  Sturdy, waterproof boots are needed for the rocky terrain of Garden of the Gods, especially if it rains during one of the 6 precipitation days.

• Insulated Winter BootsEssential

  Insulated boots are a must when navigating icy sidewalks as temperatures drop to 14°F in Colorado Springs.

• Wool SocksEssential

  Thick wool socks keep feet warm and dry during the 14°F mornings typical of January in the city.

• Casual SneakersRecommended

  Lightweight sneakers are fine for walking around town when temperatures reach the 43°F high.

Accessories

• UV-Protective SunglassesEssential

  The high elevation of Colorado Springs means intense UV exposure is a factor even when temperatures are only 43°F in January.

• Insulated BeanieEssential

  A warm beanie is necessary to prevent heat loss during the freezing 14°F nights in Colorado Springs.

• Thermal GlovesEssential

  Gloves are essential for keeping hands warm when temperatures dip to 14°F near Pikes Peak.

• Heavy ScarfRecommended

  A thick scarf helps protect against wind chill during the variable 43°F highs in Colorado Springs.

Gear

• High-SPF SunscreenEssential

  Because of the 6,035 ft elevation in Colorado Springs, you need SPF to protect against intense UV rays even during 43°F days.

• Insulated Water BottleRecommended

  An insulated bottle prevents your water from freezing when temperatures hit the 14°F low in Colorado Springs.

• Daypack with Rain CoverRecommended

  A pack with a rain cover is useful for carrying layers during any of the 6 precipitation days expected this month.

• Hand WarmersOptional

  Hand warmers are helpful if you're spending extended time outdoors when temperatures drop to 14°F in the city.