Clothing for Early Season Elk Hunts - Prepare for Everything

Early season elk hunts in Colorado can deliver a wide range of temperatures and weather. Finding the right balance in clothing makes it possible to stay cool and dry when it's hot and to remain warm and comfortable when temperatures cool down. There's an art to preparing for everything without overloading your pack. 

Don't Underestimate Early Season Climates

While warmer temperatures are the norm, they aren't the rule. Backcountry weather events can quickly turn chilly, even during September. While you probably won't need heavy duty, insulated boots and extreme weather layers, you should prepare for sudden spikes or drops in temperature and the possibility of snow. 

Moisture is a big factor and you can expect monsoon season rains, thunder and lightning and even the occasional snow during the archery elk and muzzleloader hunts. Easy access to rain gear and a few layers can go a long way when a sudden storm arrives. 

On horseback trips, you have the luxury of packing a few extra pieces of clothing and even an extra pair of boots or shoes. For the backpackers out there, your clothing must be more precise as everything is carried on your back.

Wear Breathable Fabrics 

Heat is the biggest concern on most early season hunts. You will be hiking and working hard so your clothing really needs to breathe well. While short sleeves are tempting, long sleeves and full length pants provide sun protection while offering extra protection as you bushwhack and move through difficult terrain.

Merino wool is an excellent material and you can use it as a base layer on summer hunts. Blended synthetics are also great and can keep you cool in the heat. The base layer will really be your primary layer throughout the day and you can step up to a mid-layer at night or when things turn cold.

For your mid-layers, a fleece and a simple puffy jacket are generally sufficient. If the days turn cooler, you can combine these mid-layers along with a rain jacket to have extra protection.

Always Have a Way to Stay Dry

Staying dry is important when the summer and fall rains or snowstorms arrive. Remember that it’s easier to stay dry than it is to get dry after you’re wet. On days where it drizzles non-stop, staying dry is especially important.

Carry a light rain jacket and pants on all wilderness trips. A large poncho is also a great thing to have for waiting out the rain. Ponchos pack down easily, weigh very little and can cover your body and backpack simultaneously.

Also, remember that your rain gear isn’t just for rain. Gore-Tex and other waterproof-breathable membranes are also windproof. So this is a great layer to put on when you need to cut a cold wind. Additionally, morning dew can leave the grass and bushes soaked with moisture. Even when the sky is blue, you may have good opportunities to use your rain gear.

Invest in the Best Socks You Can Buy

If there's one additional area where you should invest in the absolute best quality materials, it's your socks. Merino wool is also great for socks as are synthetics. Wear your socks on a few runs and hikes ahead of the hunt to make sure they aren't abrasive and blistering.

Pack an extra pair on your day sessions and swap them out when your current socks are wet. Keeping your feet dry and comfortable will prevent blisters and help you cover more miles with less resistance. 

Contact Us With Questions

Have questions or need help planning your next hunt? Please check out our Hunting Page and feel free to call or text us anytime at 970-536-1341. For even more detailed packing recommendations, check out our downloadable and printable packing list.