The Black Hills is home to famous national landmarks, gorgeous landscapes, and restful mountain escapes. Another thing it’s known for is unpredictable weather. We recommend coming prepared to make it a vacation of a lifetime, whatever the weather brings. Click to download the Black Hills packing list you need or snag them all!

Black Hills Packing List
Summer Black Hills Packing List
Fall Black Hills Packing List
Winter Black Hills Packing List

The locals dress casually.

The Black Hills are an eccentric place where you can pull off just about anything. Outdoorsy-clothes are always acceptable, sweatpants are fine, and jeans are good too. If you venture into one of the finer establishments for a nice meal, you may want to dress up a bit, but otherwise, you’ll be comfortable in whatever you’d wear at home. Mix and match to look like a local.

Start your Black Hills Packing List with base layers.

We always dress in layers when it’s cold with a thermal layer underneath. The next layer is loose and thicker such a flannel and hiking pants. To finish it off, we grab a water-resistant layer such as a winter coat and snow pants. When the outer layers get wet, the base layer stays warm and dry. Always check the forecast, pack accordingly, and then throw in a few extras. Wool socks and a neck gaiter will be your best friends if the weather changes.

Pack the right shoes.

If you plan to enjoy a long hike or take an overnight backpacking trip, a good pair of ankle-supporting hiking boots is the best thing you’ll pack. Make sure they’re well broken in before you hit the trails. Additionally, it’s a good idea to pack an extra pair in your bag to change into if yours get wet or become uncomfortable.

Don’t forget bug spray and sunscreen.

Mosquitos are most prevalent in spring and summer but sunburns can happen year-round and are common on a day skiing the slopes. Rattlesnakes are native, so if that’s a concern, consider bringing a pack of liquid or dissolvable Benadryl. Supposedly, you’d ingest this immediately after a bite, giving you time to contact emergency services. We’ve never tested this so feel free to do your own research.

Get the full Black Hills Packing List.

We shortened it for a quick read but we’ve got a whole laundry list of packing essentials, pun intended. Download your seasonal Black Hills Packing List and let us know what you think! Safe travels!

Black Hills Packing List
Summer Black Hills Packing List
Fall Black Hills Packing List
Winter Black Hills Packing List

3 Comments

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