A Montana Packing List: What to Bring for a Western Getaway at Paws Up
A Montana Packing List: What to Bring for a Western Getaway at Paws Up
Answer the call of the American West, where wide-open skies, mountain air, the legendary Blackfoot River, and nights by the campfire are waiting. At Paws Up Montana, all of it is yours, paired with the comfort and style of one of the world’s most distinctive outdoor resorts. Settle into ranch life, even if only for a few days, and feel instantly at home while activities, meals, and transportation are handled. Here you don’t choose between rugged adventure and refined comfort – you get both. Use this Paws Up packing list to arrive ready for every season, every activity, and every Western-inspired moment.
All-Season Essentials
No matter when you visit, you’ll want clothing that can handle a little dust while still keeping you comfortable. This goes for every Montana packing guide:
- Hiking boots: A sturdy, broken-in pair for trails through forests, meadows, and rocky ridgelines.
- Cowboy boots or closed-toed shoes: Riverside cookouts and horseback rides call for this Western classic.
- Layers: A warm outer layer will have you ready for anything.
- Activewear: Breathable tees, leggings, or shorts for activities like yoga, a trail run, or hitting the Huff-and-Puff Fitness Center.
- Clothes you don’t mind getting dusty: Jeans and plaid shirts are perfect for ATV tours, horseback rides, and cattle drives.
- Swimwear: For river floats, boat rentals, or hot tub soaks.
Accessories & Extras
- Western hat or ball cap: For sun protection (and Western-chic style). At Paws Up, you can customize a hat with feathers, bands, and beads to make it uniquely your own.
- Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from the sun and dusty trails. Polarized lenses are best for fly fishing.
- Backpack or tote: For carrying water, layers, sunscreen, or a camera.
- Socks: Wool is great for both warm days and chilly nights.
- Evening casual wear: There’s no dress code here. A casual dress or jeans look, paired with jewelry or accessories, is just right.
- Camera and tech chargers
- Sunscreen
A Paws Up Packing List For Every Season
What to Pack for Summer (June – August)
Montana summers bring warm days in the 70s–80s°F and cool nights in the 40s–50s°F. It’s prime time for fly fishing on the Blackfoot River, rafting adventures, horseback rides across wildflower meadows, outdoor yoga sessions, and acoustic evenings around the firepit.
Clothing & Layers
- Lightweight tops: T-shirts, tank tops, and plaid button-downs for layering.
- Shorts, skirts, sundresses: For afternoons on the water or exploring the ranch.
- Jeans or hiking pants: Wear jeans for ranch activities or dining at the resort, and hiking pants for wilderness adventures.
- Light jacket, flannel, or denim jacket
- Lounge wear: For relaxing indoors or on your private deck.
Footwear
- Water shoes: A must for wading in the Blackfoot River.
- Hiking boots or trail shoes: For trails, ATV rides, or walks around the property.
- Sandals or wedges: Easy for warm-weather dining.
- Closed-toe shoes or sneakers: For everyday activity or gym exercise.
- Cowboy boots: Stylish and practical for ranch life.
What to Pack for Spring & Fall (April – May; September – October)
Spring and fall are marked by crisp mornings, daytime highs in the 50s–70s°F, and evenings that dip into the 30s–40s°F. Springtime brings snowmelt-fed rushing rivers and wildflowers, while fall brings golden aspens and autumn leaf peeping. These seasons are perfect for hiking, photography, wildlife watching, fly fishing, canoeing, and gathering around the fire pit for s’mores.
Clothing & Layers
- Long sleeve shirts & button-downs
- Thermal base layers: For early morning hikes and evening stargazing.
- Jeans or hiking pants
- Fleece or pullover sweatshirt
- Rain jacket: Keep dry during spring showers or fall drizzles.
- Light puffer or vest: For layering on chilly evenings.
Footwear
- Hiking boots or water-repellent shoes. Spring showers, fall leaves, and mud can make trails slippery.
- Sneakers or closed-toe shoes: For walks or workout sessions.
- Cowboy boots: Always in style (when it’s dry).
- Thicker socks: Wool blend for warmth and moisture control.
What to Pack for Winter (November – March)
Montana winters are snowy and magical, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 40°F. Spend your days enjoying seasonal adventures like dogsledding, snowshoeing, tubing, ice skating, or cross-country skiing, then end them fireside with a warm drink in hand.
Clothing & Layers
- Thermal base layers
- Insulated or fleece mid-layers
- Puffer or down parka (water-resistant outer)
- Snow or waterproof pants
- Sweaters, flannels, and thicker knits
- Casual indoor layers: Sweaters and jeans for resort evenings.
Footwear
- Waterproof boots: Opt for insulated and waterproof boots.
- Cowboy boots: For indoor wear.
- Closed-toe footwear
- Warm socks
Accessories & Extras
- Warm hat, gloves, and scarf
- Sunglasses for snow glare
- Optional: Hand warmers and a thermos for warm drinks.
Tips for Packing Light (Without Sacrificing Style)
- Plan for on-site amenities: Paws Up offers gear rentals as well as laundry services to refresh your clothes.
- Stick to a color palette: Neutral or Western tones (denim, earth tones) make mixing outfits easier. Check out our Pinterest or Instagram for more inspiration on what to wear.
- Shop at the Wilderness Outpost: Paws Up’s boutique has everything you need, from the finest Western clothing and boots to artisan-made jewelry, art, and Paws Up merchandise.
Resort Comforts & Adventure Gear
Thoughtful amenities are included with your stay so that you can leave these at home:
- Bath products, plush robes, and a hair dryer
- Coffee and tea, filtered water, firewood for your fireplace & s’mores fixings
- Board games, cards, and lawn games
- Fender guitars for strumming (on request)
- Dog kennel and homemade treats (in pet-friendly accommodations)
- Most gear for outdoor activities is available at the Wilderness Outpost: think fly-fishing rods/waders, helmets, life vests, snowshoes, etc.
- Robes & slippers for spa services
- Cribs/pack-’n-plays and high chairs (on request)
- On-property transportation between activities and dining
See You Under the Big Sky
Reserve your stay, check off your Montana packing list, then leave the rest to us – guides, gear, and the little luxuries. We can’t wait to welcome you to Paws Up Montana.