What to Pack for Park City: Ski, Sundance & Summer
From 7,000 ft sun to deep powder and Sundance red carpets, dial in layers, SPF, microspikes, and a polished après look. Our Park City guide keeps you comfy on lifts, Main Street, and summer trails.
Updated on September 5, 2025
We may earn commissions for purchases made via this page
Park City sits above 7,000 feet, where the air is crisp, the sun feels close, and chairlifts frame a Main Street strung with warm lights. Winter brings powder mornings and clinking glasses by the fire; summer trades skis for trail days and gondola rides in dry, high-altitude heat. Pack with the mountains in mind: strong UV, quick weather shifts, and steep, sometimes icy streets shape every clothing choice.
In winter, daytime hovers in the 20s–30s°F (-6 to 32°F) with real snowfall; summers sit near the 70s°F (70–75°F) and cool off sharply at night. Think layers by job: merino base, warm mid-layer, and a waterproof-breathable shell. Add high SPF and UV shades—the altitude is unforgiving. A collapsible bottle or hydration pack matters as much as your gloves.
Locals lean casual and technical by day, then smart-but-relaxed after dark. For après or Sundance, a structured jacket, dark denim or a tailored pant reads right without feeling fussy. Footwear is the deal breaker: insulated, waterproof boots or grippy dress boots for cobbles and ice; leave stilettos at home. If you’re skiing, rent the bulky kit and save luggage for layers.
Main Street’s grade and the mountain bus system reward hands-free travel—roll a manageable bag and keep microspikes handy when sidewalks glaze over. Dry air cracks lips; carry SPF balm and moisturizer. Pace yourself on day one, hydrate, and embrace the slow warm-up: shed layers on sunny decks, pull them back on at dusk, and you’ll fit right into the rhythm here.
Part 1: Packing Essentials
Packing List
Adults
Clothing
Footwear
Essentials
Kids Clothing
Kids Footwear
Day Bag Checklist for Park City Adventures
What you'll carry for a typical day exploring the city.
Part 2: Style & Weather
Park City Weather: Altitude, Snow & Sun Year-Round
At 2,100 m, Park City runs on mountain weather: strong UV, dry air and quick swings. Winters are cold and snowy, with daytime highs around -6 to 32°F and frequent powder days. Summers are warm and crisp—70–81°F days, 41–50°F nights—with July–August thunderstorms. Higher slopes run colder and windier; shaded Main Street stays icy.
Monthly Temperature Guide
| Month | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 33°F | 16°F |
| Feb | 36°F | 17°F |
| Mar | 44°F | 23°F |
| Apr | 52°F | 28°F |
| May | 62°F | 36°F |
| Jun | 75°F | 42°F |
| Jul | 81°F | 50°F |
| Aug | 79°F | 48°F |
| Sep | 70°F | 40°F |
| Oct | 58°F | 31°F |
| Nov | 43°F | 23°F |
| Dec | 34°F | 16°F |
Seasonal Insights
spring
Spring swings from slush to sun. Pack a merino base, fleece, and a waterproof breathable shell; waterproof hiking boots with traction or microspikes for icy mornings. Add sunglasses, sunscreen, and a warm beanie for 32–50°F starts.
summer
High-altitude summer means strong UV and cool nights. Wear airy synthetics, shorts or trail pants, and a sun hat. Carry a light sun hoodie, 1–2 L water, and a storm-ready shell; evenings drop to 41–50°F, so add a light insulated layer for patios.
fall
Crisp days and sudden fronts. Use layered formulas: merino tee, midweight fleece, windproof shell, and water-resistant hikers for leaf-peeping on steep paths. Expect 41–59°F by day, near 32°F at dawn; pack a buff and gloves for chairlifts.
winter
Snowy, dry cold with bright sun. Build a base layer + insulating mid-layer + waterproof shell; insulated boots with grip for icy Main Street. For Sundance dinners, add a smart wool coat. Expect -10 to 32°F mornings, colder on ridgelines.
Park City Style Playbook: Altitude to Après
Park City dresses for altitude: performance first, polish when it counts. Start with slim merino bases, add fitted fleece or light insulation, and top with a waterproof-breathable shell. Evenings shift to structured jackets, dark denim or tailored pants, and dress boots. A navy, forest, rust, cream, charcoal, and sky-blue palette mirrors the mountains and mixes effortlessly year-round.
The Local Dress Code
Locals live in technical layers, denim and boots; it’s a casual, outdoorsy town. For après and Sundance, elevate with a smart jacket or knit, dark pants and dress boots. Stilettos and thin fashion coats struggle on ice; traction and real insulation are expected even when looks lean refined.
At 7,000+ feet, Park City style blends technical mountain layers with relaxed polish. Prioritize sun-smart merino, weatherproof shells, and traction-first footwear that moves from slopes to Sundance-ready nights.
Style at a Glance
- • Layered, athletic-tailored silhouette: slim base, fitted mid-layer, protective shell
- • Palette: navy, forest green, rust, cream, charcoal, sky blue—easy to mix
- • Key fabrics: merino, fleece, down/synthetic, waterproof-breathable, quick-dry
- • Footwear focus: snow boots, waterproof hikers, trail runners, casual sneakers, dress boots
- • Altitude essentials: UPF, sunglasses, SPF lip balm, hydration—year-round
Color Palette
Shopping in the City
Start downtown for mountain-chic boutiques, then hit resort villages for technical layers and fixes. Round out with Kimball Junction outlets for value. Shop early in peak weeks; sizes move fast and storm days clear racks.
Brands to Look For
Black Diamond Equipment: SLC-born technical brand for serious mountain days; look for gloves, headlamps and avalanche-savvy layers that last. ($$ - $$$)
KÜHL: Utah-designed pants and softshells with articulated knees and tough fabrics; flattering for town-to-trail wear. ($$ - $$$)
Cotopaxi: Playful, colorblocked insulation and travel layers made with ethical materials; light, packable warmth for summer nights. ($ - $$)
Stio: Mountain-town label with refined down, soft fleeces and durable shells that dress up easily for après and dinners. ($$ - $$$)
Pret Helmets: Park City–based helmet maker; choose MIPS models and dialed fits for resort laps or sidecountry tours. ($$ - $$$)
Where to Shop
Main Street Boutiques: Mountain-chic apparel, knitwear, and premium outerwear with local flair
Canyons Village: Resort shops for layers, goggles, gloves and quick rental fixes
Deer Valley Resort Plaza: Upscale skiwear, fine knit accessories and refined outerwear
Tanger Outlets (Kimball Junction): Discount outdoor brands and footwear—good for basics and backups
Neighborhood Vibes
Old Town / Main Street: Historic storefronts and string lights call for mountain-chic: dark denim, lug-sole boots, merino knitwear and tailored wool coats or down parkas. Tech layers blend in; polished, not fussy.
Deer Valley: Quiet-luxury ski-in elegance: monochrome skiwear, fine cashmere, sleek down, leather gloves and refined dress boots. Understated colors and premium fabrics rule over flash.
Canyons Village: Sport-forward resort style: bold shells, insulated mid-layers, beanies and goggles at lunch. After lifts, swap to clean sneakers or dress boots with a structured jacket.
Kimball Junction: Locals on errands and trailheads: fleece, softshells, trail runners and waterproof hikers. Outlets nearby make it easy to round out gear with value buys.
Seasonal Outfit Formulas
spring
Thaw & Stroll Main Street — Sunny spring day with lingering slush; shop and cafe-hop in Old Town.
- • Merino long-sleeve base layer: Breathable, odor-resistant, and easy to layer.
- • Water-resistant softshell pants: Sheds slush and stretches for hills.
- • Lightweight waterproof shell: Windproof for gondola rides; packs small.
- • Waterproof leather hiking boots: Lug soles grip cobbles and melting snow.
Shoulder-Season Switchback — Trail warm-up, then coffee in town; variable clouds and gusts.
- • Quick-dry trail tee: Wicks fast under layers.
- • Stretch fleece midlayer: Trim fit aligns with the athletic-tailored look.
- • High-waist trail leggings: Compression keeps muscles supported.
- • Grippy trail runners: Responsive cushioning for mixed paths.
- • UPF running cap: High-altitude sun needs coverage.
summer
High-UV Ridge Hike — Morning ascent, sunny and dry; 55°F–78°F (13°C–26°C).
- • UPF sun hoodie: Shields neck and hands without overheating.
- • Quick-dry hiking shorts: Dries quickly after stream crossings.
- • Ultralight windbreaker: Blocks ridge gusts; disappears in pack.
- • Breathable trail runners: Grip without the weight.
- • Wide-brim sun hat: Essential at altitude.
Gondola to Gallery Hop — Scenic ride then boutiques and bites; warm afternoon, cool evening.
- • Breathable short-sleeve button-up: Polished but airy.
- • Lightweight tapered travel pants: Moves easily on stairs.
- • Cotton chore jacket: Adds structure without bulk.
- • White leather sneakers: Town-ready, comfy for miles.
- • Crossbody travel sling: Keeps hands free on steep streets.
fall
Leaf-Line Trail Day — Crisp morning hike with chance of showers and mud.
- • Merino base layer: Warmth without bulk.
- • Light down vest: Core warmth, arms free.
- • Stretch hiking pants: Brushes off mud.
- • Waterproof mid hikers: Ankle support on wet roots.
- • Merino beanie: Stows small for sudden chills.
Storm-Ready Town Layers — Shopping and coffee runs under unsettled skies.
- • Merino thermal top: Breathable warmth indoors.
- • Waterproof shell: Seals out gusty showers.
- • Grid fleece midlayer: Slim fit plays well under shells.
- • Black straight jeans: Resists splash marks.
- • Waterproof leather Chelsea boots: Dressy traction for slick sidewalks.
winter
Ski-Day System — Resort laps in 28°F / -2°C with fresh snow.
- • Merino base top: Manages sweat on cold chairlifts.
- • Insulated ski pants: Seals out wind and spray.
- • Insulated midlayer jacket: Fitted warmth under shell.
- • Waterproof ski shell: Essential for storms.
- • All-mountain ski boots: Rent or bring your preferred fit.
Après at High West — Whiskey tastings and dinner; sidewalks icy.
- • Merino-cashmere sweater: Soft, compact warmth.
- • Dark straight jeans: Pairs with anything.
- • Knee-length down parka: Coverage without bulk.
- • Insulated leather dress boots: Traction plus polish.
- • Rib knit beanie: Cozy and packable.
Footwear Guidelines
- • Pick lugged soles for ice and cobbles; add microspikes in deep winter.
- • Choose waterproof membranes and insulation for snow boots; leave toe room for warmth.
- • Break in hiking boots before arrival; aim for ankle support on steep trails.
- • Pack one polished boot or smart shoe for Sundance-level dinners.
Accessory Guidelines
- • UV-blocking sunglasses or goggles—high-altitude glare is intense.
- • Wide-brim hat or UPF cap; beanie or balaclava for storms.
- • Merino socks in multiple weights; rotate to stay dry.
- • Touchscreen liner gloves under insulated shells for dexterity.
- • Hydration flask or soft bottle and SPF 30+ lip balm in-pocket.
What to Wear in Park City: Ski, Sundance & Mountain Days
Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding
At 7,000+ ft, cold, wind, and UV hit harder—technical layers and hydration keep you comfortable all day.
Essential Items:
- • Merino neck gaiter
- • High-SPF lip balm
- • UV ski goggles
- • Boot traction covers
Après-Ski Dining & Bars
Evenings swing from cozy pubs to reservation-only spots—elevate mountain casual while staying sure-footed on ice.
Essential Items:
- • Lug-sole dress boots
- • Compact down jacket
- • Slim crossbody bag
Sundance Festival Events & Red Carpet
Crowds, cameras, and slushy sidewalks demand refined looks that move in winter without sacrificing traction.
Essential Items:
- • Tailored jacket
- • Portable phone charger
- • Badge holder lanyard
Hiking & Mountain Biking
Dry summer days and cool nights mean UPF coverage by day and a light warm layer by dusk on exposed trails.
Essential Items:
- • UPF sun hoodie
- • 2L hydration bladder
- • Light rain shell
Main Street Shopping & Dining
Steep cobbles and warm shops call for traction, transit-savvy layers, and easy on-off pieces.
Essential Items:
- • Waterproof ankle boots
- • Insulated vest
- • Microspikes
Gondola & Scenic Rides
Views jump from sunny base to windy, colder summits—layer for quick temperature swings.
Essential Items:
- • Packable down jacket
- • Polarized sunglasses
- • Touchscreen liner gloves
Snowmobiling & Backcountry Tours
High speed over open snow magnifies windchill—layer deep and prioritize safety gear.
Essential Items:
- • Balaclava
- • Chemical hand warmers
- • Snowsuit or bibs rental
- • Avalanche beacon (guided)
Horseback Riding & Fishing
Dusty sunlit trails need coverage, while alpine evenings cool quickly near rivers and lakes.
Essential Items:
- • Polarized sunglasses
- • Bug repellent wipes
- • Quick-dry fishing shirt
- • Lightweight jacket
Part 3: Expert Tips
What Not to Pack for Park City: Snow, Sundance & Summer
Save luggage space and avoid common overpacking mistakes by leaving these items behind.
- • Stiletto heels: Main Street's cobbles, steep alleys, and icy stairs make stilettos dangerous and miserable to walk in. Choose dress boots or block-heel shoes with lugged tread; add compact microspikes for stormy nights.
- • Low-SPF, thin sunscreen: At 7,000+ ft the UV is intense; thin SPF 15 lotions won't cut it. Pack broad-spectrum SPF 50+ mineral sunscreen and an SPF lip balm, and reapply on lifts and trails. Travel sizes are easy to buy in town.
- • Heavy cotton sweaters only: Thick cotton knits trap sweat and dry slowly in the cold, leaving you chilled between runs and at apres. Bring merino base layers and a fleece or light down mid-layer instead; they breathe and dry fast.
- • Flip-flops as primary footwear: Flip-flops slide on ice and offer no support on rocky trails. Wear insulated, waterproof boots in winter and grippy trail shoes or sport sandals in summer. Save flips for the hotel hot tub or pool only.
- • Oversized single bag without wheels: One huge, wheel-less duffel is brutal on Park City's stairs, bus stops, and slushy curbs. Use a rolling suitcase with big wheels or a backpack-style duffel, plus a small daypack for lifts and Main Street.
- • Full ski kit if you’re casual/short-trip: Dragging skis, poles, and boots for a quick trip adds fees and hassle. Reserve rentals in town or at the base, and just pack your own goggles, socks, gloves, and a thin helmet liner for comfort and fit.
- • Ultra-formal gowns or tuxedos: Sundance has upscale moments, but full gowns and tuxes are rare and awkward in snow. Choose a smart jacket, dark denim or tailored pants, and dress boots. Bring true formalwear only with a confirmed invite.
- • Smooth-sole fashion boots or sneakers (winter): Smooth leather soles and fashion sneakers slide on icy sidewalks and packed snow. Pack insulated, waterproof boots with real tread, and carry pocketable microspikes for Main Street hills after storms.
- • Bulky rubber rain boots: Park City is dry; heavy rubber rain boots are bulky and poor on ice. Bring a lightweight waterproof shell and insulated snow boots instead. For summer showers, a compact shell and quick-dry shoes work better.
- • Thick denim or cotton pants for the slopes: Jeans or cotton chinos soak through on lifts and freeze fast. Wear waterproof ski pants or softshells over thermal base layers, or rent outerwear locally. Save denim for town dinners and casual bars.
- • Small 8–12 oz water bottle: Altitude is dehydrating; a tiny bottle empties fast and discourages sipping. Pack a 1L insulated bottle or a 2-3L hydration reservoir for ski days and hikes, and refill at lodges and trailheads.
- • Uninsured, high-value jewelry: High-value pieces are easy to misplace during glove changes and crowded festival lines. Leave heirlooms home or bring minimal jewelry you can lock in a hotel safe; choose low-profile styles for apres.
Insider Tips for Park City Packing
Local wisdom and practical advice gathered from seasoned travelers and residents.
- • Start Smart at 7,000 Feet: Park City sits around 7,000 ft; hydrate early and often. Pack SPF 50+ and SPF lip balm, UV sunglasses, and a wide-brim or helmet visor. Expect quicker sunburn—carry a 1L bottle and pace day one.
- • Mountain Layering That Works: Winter days hover in the 20s–30s°F (-6 to 0°C) with colder nights. Wear merino base layers, a fleece or light puffy, and a waterproof shell. Add down for evenings. Quick-dry socks beat cotton every time.
- • Grip for Icy Main Street: Main Street’s cobbles and steep sidewalks ice over fast. Pack insulated waterproof boots with good tread and slip-on microspikes for storms. Trekking poles help on stairways; leave stilettos at home.
- • Rent Big, Pack Small: Rent skis/boards, boots, helmets, and avalanche safety gear in town to save baggage space; reserve for holidays and Sundance. Pack your own base layers, goggles, and socks. Free buses make hauling minimal gear easy.
- • Sundance: Polished, Not Flashy: Sundance nights call for polished mountain smart: a tailored jacket, dark denim, and dress boots with lug soles. Lines form outdoors near 20°F (-6°C), so add a compact down and a warm scarf, not a tux.
- • Summer Sun + Surprise Storms: Summer days reach the 70s–80s°F (21–27°C) then drop to the 40s°F (4–9°C). Pack a featherweight shell, sun sleeves, and a brimmed hat. Afternoon storms roll through fast—dry-fit layers beat clingy cotton.
- • Winter Driving Reality Check: Snowy roads demand AWD or chains, and festival weeks crush parking. Use free buses for town and slopes. Keep an ice scraper, gloves, and a headlamp handy, and budget extra time for canyon closures.
- • Carry Water Everywhere: Dry air plus altitude dehydrate quickly. Carry a 2L hydration bladder or big bottle on trails and lifts; refill at lodges. Add electrolyte tabs and go easy on alcohol day one to avoid headaches and fatigue.
- • Battery Life in the Cold: Cold zaps batteries fast. Bring a high-capacity power bank and keep your phone in an inner pocket. Download offline maps and transit info. Touchscreen-friendly gloves help you shoot photos without freezing.
- • Mud Season Footwear Fix: Spring and fall bring snowmelt mud and icy mornings. Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support plus low gaiters keep you dry; pack microspikes for shaded trails. Step through mud, not around, to protect paths.
- • Book Early, Move Light: During Sundance, pre-book rentals, restaurants, and shuttles weeks ahead. Use a rolling carry-on plus a daypack—steep streets punish big suitcases. Save e-tickets and screenshots to speed ID checks in lines.
- • High-UV Skin Routine: High UV and desert-dry air require routine care: reapply SPF 50 every two hours, use a zinc stick on nose and cheeks, carry SPF lip balm, and pack moisturizer, saline spray, and eyedrops to stay comfortable.
Park City FAQs: Altitude, Ski Layers & Sundance Style
Common questions from fellow travelers, answered with local insight and practical experience.
How should I layer for Park City’s cold, snowy ski days?
What footwear works on icy Main Street and steep hills?
How do altitude and dry air affect packing and health?
What should I pack for Sundance nights and dress codes?
Is it better to rent ski gear or bring my own to Park City?
What do summers feel like, and what should I wear hiking?
How do shoulder seasons affect packing for mud and storms?
Park City Packing Mistakes and Fixes
Learn from others' experiences to avoid these common packing pitfalls and travel more comfortably.
Ignoring altitude and hydration
7000ft+ elevation dries you out fast. Pack a 2L bottle or hydration bladder, electrolyte tablets, SPF lip balm, and saline nasal spray. Ask your doctor about altitude meds; ease in day one.
Only city clothes for ski season
City coats fail on the mountain. Bring a waterproof-breathable shell, insulated mid-layer, merino base, snow pants, warm hat and gloves. Rent skis, boots and helmet locally to save weight and money.
Rolling thin-wheeled luggage on Main Street
Main Street is steep, cobbled, and icy in winter. Four-wheel spinners struggle. Choose a wheeled duffel or backpack, add microspikes for sidewalks, and wear lug-sole dress boots for grip at dinner.
No reservations during Sundance peak
During Sundance, rentals and shuttles sell out. Reserve skis and boot fittings early, and book an airport shuttle or AWD car. Pack one polished, warm evening outfit and compact layers for long lines.
Skipping high-altitude sun protection
High UV at altitude burns fast, even on cold days. Pack SPF 50 sunscreen, SPF lip balm, UV sunglasses or goggles, a brim beanie or cap, and a UPF neck gaiter. Reapply on lifts and patios.
Packing heavy instead of layering
Bulky sweaters eat space and stay damp. Follow layers: 2–3 merino bases, one fleece, one light down, and a waterproof shell. Most rentals have laundry; use compression sacks and repeat outfits.
Your Park City Journey Awaits
Park City is calling—powder mornings, gondola views, and Main Street glow. You’re ready. Remember: high-altitude sun is fierce, so pack SPF 50, lip balm with SPF, and UV shades; sip water all day. Lean on layers—merino base, warm mid, waterproof shell—for swings from 20s–30s°F (-6 to 0°C). For steep, icy sidewalks, bring microspikes or grippy boots. Reserve ski rentals or Sundance spots early, and tuck a smart jacket or dress boots for effortless après and festival nights.
