2 minute read
Daytripping in Montana and Yellowstone
What to pack
There’s a popular saying in Montana: “If you don’t like the weather, wait 10 minutes.” And that’s the truth. It could be 90 degrees one minute, then drop 20 degrees with gale force winds and rain blowing sideways the next.
When recreating in Montana you need to be prepared…for weather, wildlife and emergencies.
First, dress in layers. The temperature may be 85 degrees, but in town it can feel like 100 degrees and on the summit of your hike more like 65 degrees. As already noted, the weather can change dramatically and rapidly. Second, don’t wear new shoes. Even Montanans have made this mistake and you don’t want blistered feet during your entire summer.
And PLEASE keep a safe distance from wildlife (no selfies with bears, etc). It's amazing every year how many people get dangerously close. Use the pullouts when you want to stop. Drive Safely.
Here is a solid list of standard daytrip items:
Raincoat
Sweatshirt or light jacket
Large water bottle (unless you want to take a trip to the ER, don’t drink creek or river water)
Lunch/snacks (plan not to find a hot meal for hours)
A second pair of socks (in case the first ones get wet)
Band-Aids
Bear spray
Hats (sun and winter)
Bug spray
Sunscreen
Camera or smartphone
Binoculars
Allergy Medicine
Ibuprofen
A real map (cell service is spotty in the backcountry and YNP)
Cash (gas stations are few and far between in some places, and you'll find some only take cash)
Tissues or toilet paper (when you gotta go, you gotta go)
Lip balm
For serious day trippers/ hikers add the following:
Flashlight or headlamp
Water shoes
Long pants
Gloves
Bathing suit (You might want to jump in a river)
Matches and a fire starter