What to Wear in Salt Lake City, Utah This Winter

Got a winter trip planned to Salt Lake City, UT? Salt Lake City can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around 39°F (that's 4°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

First and foremost, you'll need to dress warmly, as the temperatures can drop below freezing. A coat, scarf, and hat are going to be essential. Layering is also key, so consider wearing a sweater or vest under your coat. Boots with some grip are a good choice of footwear, as they'll keep your feet warm and dry whatever the conditions.

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Salt Lake City in winter—whether you're visiting Temple Square, skiing or snowboarding at one of the nearby resorts, hiking in one of the many nearby canyons, visiting the Natural History Museum of Utah, or going to a show at the Utah Symphony | Utah Opera.

🔗 What should women wear in Salt Lake City, Utah in winter?

Salt Lake City in winter is generally cold, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: cardigans, jeans, walking boots, heavy coat, and thermal baselayers. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Salt Lake City has to offer.

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Salt Lake City in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Salt Lake City, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Walking boots

Walking boots are a must-have item for Salt Lake City, especially if your trip involves hiking or spending time outdoors. They provide support and stability on uneven terrain, and they also protect your feet from rocks, roots, and other hazards. When choosing walking boots, it's important to pick a pair that fits well and provides enough support for your ankles. It's also a good idea to get them ahead of time and break them in before you go on your trip, so you can avoid blisters when you're there.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Heavy coat

You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Salt Lake City, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Thermal baselayers

As Salt Lake City in winter has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Salt Lake City trip despite the cold weather.

Here are some of my favorites:

🔗 What should men wear in Salt Lake City, Utah in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: thermal baselayers, heavy coat, jeans, cardigans, and long-sleeved shirts. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Salt Lake City in comfort and style.

🔗 Thermal baselayers

As Salt Lake City in winter has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Salt Lake City trip despite the cold weather.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

🔗 Heavy coat

You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Salt Lake City, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.

Here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Salt Lake City, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Salt Lake City in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

These would be perfect:

🔗 Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Salt Lake City, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Salt Lake City, Utah will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Salt Lake City has to offer!