Planning a vacation to a new location is daunting. Throw in variable weather, new wilderness experiences, and unfamiliarity of the general area and it’s almost enough to make you head back to the familiar sunny beaches of Florida… almost.
As much as we love a good intro story, we’re going to forego the… “My best friend’s sister’s boyfriend’s brother’s girlfriend”… kind of story. I mean, you’ve got pack, right?
For simplicity, I’m going to break this up into three sections- All Season, Summer, & Winter. If you find yourself in the Flathead Valley in the shoulder season- April/May or October/November, err on the side of the Winter Packing List. You don’t want to spend time searching the retail stores for a heavier coat when you have a perfectly decent one at home. Also, consider this as an all-around pack list and utilize it for the kiddos.
What I don’t cover are the hard-core gear packing lists- water filters, backcountry supplies, etc.
All Season Gear
- A solid base layer (1): I prefer a wicking fabric, especially for the winter. A few miles trekking in snowshoes will have you sweating even in the coldest of temperatures. Pack 2 if you prefer clean clothes, are here for a week or more and don’t have access to laundry. Summer base layers offer sun protection, easy layering for warm valleys to breezy summits, and evening wear- it still gets chilly at night in the summer.
- Good socks (2-3): I’ll make it through an entire 15 mile hike with 1 pair of socks. My husband, however, changes 2-3 times in one trip. There’s nothing worse than hiking in wet socks… well, there is… but you get it. My favorite is Darn Tough.
- Sun protection layer (1): I’m in love with my NRS sunshade shirts. We carry them in our retail shop in the summer months and they’re fantastic for spring, summer, and fall sun protection. They also look halfway decent for going out for dinner after a day spent outside.
- Sunglasses/hat (1 each): The weather changes every 20 minutes in Montana. You’ll wake up to a cloudy sky and by the time you get to the trailhead or the ski resort, the sun will be out.
- Day pack (1): Whether you’re strolling around downtown Whitefish or spending the day in the Park (winter or summer); you’re going to want a bag to carry your gear around. Think, water bottle, camera, wallet, face mask, sun protection, bug spray (summer), phone charger, etc.
Winter Gear
- Gloves (1): you definitely get what you pay for in this category. Select your gloves based on your activity level. Waterproof and insulated are a must if you’re going skiing or snowmobiling. I prefer lightweight gloves for XC skiing and around town shopping.
- Winter boots (1): Ladies looking for style and functionality can’t go wrong with Sorel. Merrell is also a good alternative, hiking and winter boots. If you don’t feel like packing these, the Army Navy Store in Whitefish or Kalispell is an excellent, affordable stop for all things gear/shoe/clothing related.
- Balaclava/Neck Gaiter (1): Whether you’re skiing or snowshoeing, a balaclava or neck gaiter comes in handy for mask ordinances, warmth, sun protection, etc. We sell them in our retail shop, along with other winter gear.
- Jacket (1): This one seems obvious, but let’s focus on the jacket’s actual functionality. We’re in the Pacific Northwest. Our snow is wet and heavy. You want something waterproof. Some people prefer a shell, some people prefer insulated. Go with your gut on that one. I prefer insulated because I can wear less layers underneath.
Summer Gear
- Hiking PANTS (1): Listen, I get it… you think you’re going to be too hot in pants. NOT TRUE. The longer length will protect your legs from overgrown trails, insects, scratches, etc. As always, go with a wicking fabric that’s comfortable and light weight.
- Sandals (1): Let me tell you, there is nothing better than taking off your hiking shoes after a long day on the trail and putting on sandals. I even carry mine with me while I hike so when we stop to rest I can let my feet air out. Is this extra weight? Yes. Do I care? Absolutely not. They’re also convenient to have when you come across an alpine lake and want to go for a swim. The shorelines are often heavily covered with logs, sticks, and other vegetation. Chacos are the ever-popular trend. Teva is a great option, as well.
- Lightweight Hoodie/Zip Up (1): I carry one everywhere. After a day on the river, hiking, or just being in the sun… your body is warm and the slightest drop in temperature gives you shivers. This item is great for happy hour on the patio or just to give you skin a break from all that sun exposure. Remember, it stays light until 10 pm here.
- Rain Jacket (1): I prefer a shell because I can utilize it as a windbreaker when I’m hiking in higher altitudes. Also, weather is unpredictable and summer, afternoon storms are frequent.
At the end of the day, you’re bound to forget something. Opt to stop in local stores and businesses and spend your money. Sure, Costco is convenient, but there are a ton of us locals out here ready to help you with anything you might need. Can Costco give you the best “hikes less traveled”? Does Walmart know where you can find the best snow stash? Probably not. Stop in, say hi, and get great information for your upcoming trip.
As always we love to help vacation plan. Feel free to give us a call to talk logistics, book a tour, or just to get a better grasp on the valley and Glacier National Park.
