Yellowstone in winter is pure magic — steam rising from frozen geysers, bison dusted with snow, and a silence that feels ancient. But it’s also cold, remote, and unpredictable. Whether you’re joining a guided snowcoach tour, exploring on snowshoes, or photographing the landscape, being properly equipped and understanding how to dress in layers is essential.
This checklist will help you stay warm, safe, and comfortable while making the most of your single day in Yellowstone’s winter wonderland.
I’ve included a couple of really helpful links at the bottom if you are new to layering for winter!
🧥 CLOTHING: LAYER UP FOR THE COLD
The key to comfort when recreating outdoors is is layering, especially in winter!
The beauty of layers is that you can select layers to perform various job, and add or remove them as needed, providing you with the most comfortable outdoor experience. a warm base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell.
Base Layers
☐ Moisture-wicking long underwear (top & bottom) — wool or synthetic
☐ Warm, moisture-wicking socks in 2 or more layers (bring an extra pair)
☐ Avoid cotton (it traps moisture and chills you)
Mid-Layers
☐ Fleece, wool, or synthetic pullover
☐ Insulated jacket (down or synthetic) for rest stops or cold snaps
Outer Layers
☐ Waterproof, windproof shell jacket
☐ Waterproof pants or snow pants (especially for deep snow)
Accessories
☐ Warm hat that covers your ears
☐ Neck gaiter or scarf
☐ Insulated gloves or mittens (plus thin liners)
☐ Waterproof, insulated boots with good traction
☐ Sunglasses or snow goggles
☐ Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
🎒 DAY-PACK ESSENTIALS
A small day-pack keeps everything you need close at hand — and ready for sudden changes in weather.
☐ Small backpack that holds all your stuff
☐ Water bottle or insulated flask
☐ Thermos with a hot drink
☐ High-energy snacks or packed lunch
☐ Camera and extra batteries (cold drains them fast)
☐ Binoculars or spotting scope (for wildlife)
☐ Microspikes or traction aids for icy walkways
☐ Compact first-aid kit and emergency blanket
☐ Map or printed itinerary (cell service can be spotty)
🧘 PERSONAL & COMFORT ITEMS
Little things can make a huge difference when the temperature drops.
☐ Lip balm and sunscreen
☐ Prescription medications
☐ Hand and foot warmers
☐ Extra socks or gloves
☐ Fully charged phone and portable charger
☐ Headlamp or flashlight (short winter days!)
☐ Wallet, ID, and park pass
☐ Small trash bag (pack out all waste)
☐ Notebook and pen (for journaling or notes)
🏕️ PRO TIPS FOR WINTER IN YELLOWSTONE
✨ Dress for layers, not bulk. You’ll heat up quickly when walking or photographing, so make it easy to adjust.
✨ Protect your gear. Keep batteries warm and watch for condensation moving between warm and cold air.
✨ Respect wildlife distances. Animals are stressed in winter — bring a long lens, not a short leash.
✨ Expect changing weather. Storms can arrive fast; pack with margin for safety.
✨ Stay hydrated. Even in the cold, altitude and dry air mean you’ll lose water quickly.
🧾 QUICK REFERENCE CHECKLIST
Clothing
☐ Base layer (top & bottom)
☐ Warm socks (2 pairs)
☐ Mid-layer fleece or wool
☐ Heavy jacket
☐ Waterproof outer shell
☐ Hat, gloves/mittens, neck gaiter
☐ Insulated boots
Gear
☐ Backpack
☐ Water bottle / thermos
☐ Snacks / lunch
☐ Camera + extra batteries
☐ Binoculars (optional)
☐ Microspikes / traction aids
☐ First-aid kit
Personal
☐ Sunscreen & lip balm
☐ Medications
☐ Hand warmers
☐ Extra gloves / socks
☐ Headlamp / flashlight
☐ ID / park pass / wallet
☐ Phone + charger
☐ Map / printed itinerary
❄️ Final Thoughts
Winter in Yellowstone isn’t just another season — it’s another world. With the right gear and mindset, you’ll be ready for a day filled with quiet beauty, dramatic landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Bundle up, pack smart, and let the adventure begin.
To dive deeper, follow these helpful links!
REI provides sound advice on how to dress in layers for winter!
Here is a really good layering video by Swedish gear maker, Fjällräven!
