What to Expect from Wyoming Weather
The Lazy L&B sits at 7,000 feet elevation in the Wind River valley outside of Dubois, Wyoming. At this elevation, weather patterns can change dramatically throughout the day, and temperatures can vary depending on the month you visit. June and September tend to be a bit cooler with highs in the low 70’s, while July and August can see high temps in the mid 80’s.
The only thing predictable about mountain weather is that it’s unpredictable! You might start your ride in a fleece jacket, peel down to a T-shirt by mid-day, and need that jacket again by the evening. This is why layering is absolutely essential for a comfortable dude ranch experience.
The sun is also significantly more intense at 7,000 feet elevation. Even on cloudy days, UV rays are stronger and you can burn quickly. We strongly recommend covering up with long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat rather than relying solely on sunscreen.
Pro Tip
What Clothes to Pack for Your Dude Ranch Vacation
The Golden Rule: Layers, Layers, Layers
Before we dive into specific items, understand that successful ranch packing is all about layering. You’ll want base layers (what touches your skin), mid-layers (insulation), and outer layers (weather protection). This system allows you to adjust throughout the day as temperatures and activities change.
Daily Wear Essentials
Long pants are essential horseback riding attire to prevent chafing and protect your legs from the saddle leather, stirrups, brush, and sun. Jeans are the go-to choice for dude ranch vacations and for good reason—they’re durable, provide excellent protection, and are part of the authentic western ranch experience. Bring 2-3 pairs so you have fresh options throughout the week. Riding pants, leggings, or even sweatpants can also work, though they may not provide quite as much protection as denim. Some guests choose to wear long underwear or tights underneath their jeans if they’re prone to chafing, especially on longer rides.
For shirts, pack 2-3 long-sleeve options to give yourself crucial sun protection while riding. Button-down western shirts are perfect—they keep you cool, fit the ranch aesthetic, and the collars protect your neck from the intense Wyoming sun. Long-sleeve t-shirts or lightweight hiking shirts also work well. You’ll also want to bring 2-3 short-sleeve shirts or t-shirts for other activities around the ranch or for riding, if you prefer, just don’t forget the sunscreen if you go this route! The key is to have options, so you can adjust to the day’s weather and activities.
Don’t skip the warm layers! Even in the summer, temperatures drop significantly when the sun goes down—sometimes by 30-40 degrees. Bring at least 2 warm sweaters, fleeces, or hoodies to keep you comfortable during late nights around the campfire and early mornings down at the corrals. These layers are perfect for wearing under your jacket when it’s really chilly, or on their own during cool mornings before the sun warms things up.
A waterproof, windproof jacket is non-negotiable. As we mentioned, Wyoming mountain weather is famously unpredictable, so it’s essential to always have a quality rain jacket with you. When you’re out on the trail, we can tie it to the back of your saddle so you don’t have to carry it, but you’ll be grateful to have it if an afternoon thunderstorm rolls in. Please avoid ponchos. The flapping fabric can spook the horses.
We also recommend bringing a swimsuit. We have a heated swimming pool, a relaxing hot tub, and the East Fork River flows right through the ranch property! There’s nothing quite like a refreshing plunge in the river after a long day of riding, or soaking those tired muscles in the hot tub. Pack at least one swimsuit, and consider bringing two if you want to swim multiple days.
Evening & Downtime Wear
While the ranch is casual and relaxed, you might want 1-2 comfortable outfits for non-riding time. We have a couple of adult sit-down dinners during the week where guests sometimes enjoy dressing up a bit (though it’s entirely optional). Think casual western—a nice flannel shirt, clean jeans, or a western dress. You’ll also appreciate having comfortable loungewear for relaxing in your cabin in the evenings.
Choosing the Right Boots and Shoes
Riding Boots (MOST IMPORTANT!)
We require boots with a smooth, flat sole and a heel for horseback riding safety. Here’s why this matters: a smooth sole allows your foot to easily slide out of the stirrup if you fall, while the heel prevents your foot from sliding through the stirrup, which could result in being dragged. The best choices for riding boots are:
- Cowboy or western boots – The classic choice and what most guests wear
- English riding boots or paddock boots – Perfect, and paddock boots are often cheaper
- Smooth-soled dress shoes with a heel – Can work in a pinch
Hiking boots should be avoided as the aggressive tread makes them unsafe for riding. The photo below shows an example of appropriate versus inappropriate riding footwear.
Around-the-Ranch Footwear
You’ll definitely want comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for non-riding activities like hiking, exploring the ranch, and general getting around. Sandals or slip-on shoes are nice to have for relaxing in your cabin or walking to the lodge. If you plan to swim, water shoes or river sandals can be helpful for the rocky riverbed.
Hats & Sun Protection
Hats for Riding
A wide-brimmed cowboy hat or sun hat is highly recommended for riding, especially on our longer trail rides. However, there’s an important safety requirement: any hat worn while riding must have a stampede string to secure it to your head. Mountain winds can be strong and unpredictable, and a hat blowing off can spook horses and create a dangerous situation. Stampede strings are available in our ranch store.
Baseball caps are okay and provide some sun protection, though they don’t protect your neck and ears as well as a wide-brimmed hat. For cool mornings, a beanie or warm knit hat is great to have.
Riding helmets are mandatory for all children 12 and under. We provide helmets at no charge. Adults are welcome to wear helmets if they prefer—some of our guests bring their own, though it’s not required. If you’d like to wear a helmet and don’t have one, let us know when you arrive and we can provide one. Please note that helmets are first come first serve and children 12 and under have priority.
Sun Protection Essentials
At 7,000 feet elevation, the sun’s UV rays are significantly stronger than at sea level. Even on cloudy days, you can get sunburned quickly. Here’s what you need:
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) – Apply in the morning and reapply frequently, especially after swimming
- Lip balm with SPF – The mountain air is dry and your lips will thank you
- Sunglasses with a retainer strap – You don’t want them falling off on the trail
- Bandana or neck gaiter – Multipurpose! Use for dust protection, sun protection, or just for the western style
Horseback Riding Gear & Accessories
Riding Gloves
Leather or riding gloves are highly recommended to protect your hands from the reins and especially when it’s colder. Leather work gloves, western riding gloves, or equestrian gloves all work well. If you forget them, L&B branded gloves are available for purchase in our ranch store.
What to Bring on Trail Rides
Every saddle is equipped with a horn bag to carry the essentials. Consider packing:
- Water bottle – Staying hydrated at elevation is crucial (we provide an aluminum water bottle in your cabin that you can bring on rides, but you might want an extra)
- Camera or phone – You’ll want to capture those incredible mountain views
- Small snacks – Trail mix, energy bars, or granola bars
- Extra layer – A lightweight fleece or long-sleeve shirt in case weather changes
- Your rain jacket – We’ll tie it to your saddle
- Sunscreen – For reapplying on longer rides
Toiletries & Personal Items
Toiletries
Every cabin is equipped with the essentials such as shampoo, conditioner, bodywash, and hair dryers. We recommend bringing your standard toiletry items:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Extra moisturizer and lotion – The mountain air is extremely dry
- Chapstick (bring multiple!) – Essential in dry Wyoming climate
- Razor and shaving cream if needed
- Feminine hygiene products
- Insect repellent – We don’t have many bugs, but bring it just in case
- Any prescription medications (bring enough for your entire stay plus a day or two extra)
- Basic first aid items like bandaids, blister treatment, pain relievers (we have supplies but it’s nice to have your own)
Nice-to-Have Items (But Not Essential)
These items can enhance your ranch experience but aren’t necessary:
- Journal or notebook for documenting your adventure
- Books or e-reader for quiet downtime (we also have some books in the lodge available to borrow during your stay)
- Playing cards or travel games for cabin time (the main lodge has a selection of board games and cards you’re welcome to borrow)
- Small daypack for hiking
- Reusable water bottle
- Flashlight or headlamp for stargazing walks
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Your own fishing gear (although we have rods to borrow, you may want your own gear if you’re an experienced angler)
For Photography Enthusiasts:
- Extra memory cards and batteries
- Lens cleaning cloth (dust is inevitable!)
- Camera bag suitable for horseback riding
Seasonal Packing Variations
Early Season (June)
Early June at the ranch is beautiful but can be our coolest month. Mornings often start in the 40s and 50s, so be prepared with:
- Extra warm layers – A heavier fleece or puffy jacket in addition to your rain jacket
- Warmer gloves – Lightweight winter gloves or fleece-lined gloves for cold mornings
- Beanie or warm hat – Essential for morning rides
- Long underwear or base layers – Great for layering under jeans on chilly days
- Be prepared for rain or even snow flurries – It’s rare but it happens in the mountains
The tradeoff? Views of snow-capped mountains, vibrant wildflowers, and often excellent wildlife viewing!
Peak Season (July-August)
Our warmest and busiest months, though you still need to be prepared for temperature swings:
- Lighter-weight layers – You can get away with thinner sweaters
- Extra sunscreen – Longer days mean more sun exposure
- Multiple swimsuits – Perfect swimming weather! You might want to swim daily
- Afternoon storm preparation – Brief thunderstorms are common in late afternoons
- Breathable long-sleeve shirts – For sun protection without overheating
Peak season rewards you with the warmest weather, most daylight, and the best swimming conditions!
Late Season (September & Adults-Only Weeks)
Late August and early September brings crisp air, and our special adults-only weeks:
- Heavier fleeces and jackets – Mornings and evenings are quite cold
- Warmer gloves essential – You’ll need them on every ride
- Long underwear/base layers – Plan to wear these daily under your riding clothes
- Possibility of early snow – Beautiful but be prepared
- Multiple layers for temperature swings – Can be 40°F in the morning and 70°F by afternoon
Late season offers fewer guests and a more intimate ranch experience.
The Lazy L&B Ranch Store
Forgot something? No problem! Our ranch store is stocked with both essentials and fun branded merchandise to enhance your dude ranch experience.
Riding Essentials Available
If you forget a critical item or realize you need something once you arrive, our ranch store carries:
- Riding gloves – Leather gloves to prevent blisters
- Stampede strings – Required for hats while riding
- Bandanas – For dust, sun protection, and western style
- Western wear basics – Select items to complete your ranch wardrobe
- Toiletries – We have all the basics
Lazy L&B Branded Merchandise
Take home a piece of your Wyoming ranch vacation! Our store features a variety of Lazy L&B branded items:
- T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts
- Hoodies and crewnecks (perfect for cool evenings!)
- Cowboy hats and caps
- Mugs and drinkware
- And much more!
These make great souvenirs for yourself or gifts for friends and family back home. Plus, wearing your Lazy L&B gear after your vacation is a wonderful way to remember your time here and share your ranch experience with others.
Shop Before You Arrive
Want to show up already outfitted in Lazy L&B style? Visit our online store to browse and purchase branded merchandise before your trip. Arriving in your Lazy L&B gear is a fun way to start your ranch vacation, and you’ll fit right in from day one!
Smart Packing Strategies
Packing Tips & Tricks
- Roll clothes instead of folding – Saves space and reduces wrinkles
- Use packing cubes – Organize by category (tops, bottoms, riding gear)
- Pack a separate dirty clothes bag – Or designate one of your packing cubes for this
- Put boots in a separate bag – Keeps dirt contained and protects other items
- Keep layers easily accessible – Weather changes mean you’ll be adding/removing layers throughout the day
- Bring one slightly nicer outfit – For our adult dinners if you want to dress up a bit
- Check the forecast one week before – But remember to still pack for all conditions!
- Consider bringing an extra pair of jeans – If one pair gets soaked in a rainstorm, you’ll want a backup
Laundry at the Ranch
We have a coin-operated guest laundry facility available if needed during your stay. There is laundry detergent available for purchase and we can also make change for you.
Your Final Pre-Departure Checklist
Clothing:
☐ 2-3 pairs of jeans or long pants
☐ 2-3 long-sleeve shirts
☐ 2-3 short-sleeve shirts
☐ 2 warm fleeces or sweaters/hoodies
☐ Waterproof/windproof jacket
☐ 1-2 swimsuits
☐ Casual evening wear
☐ Loungewear/pajamas
☐ Underwear for 6-7 days
Footwear:
☐ Riding boots with heel and smooth sole
☐ Comfortable walking shoes
☐ Sandals or slip-ons
☐ Water shoes (optional)
☐ 6-8 pairs of socks
Sun & Weather Protection:
☐ Wide-brimmed hat with stampede string
☐ Warm hat/beanie
☐ Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
☐ Lip balm with SPF
☐ Sunglasses
☐ Bandana or neck gaiter
Riding Gear:
☐ Riding gloves
☐ Water bottle
☐ Camera
Toiletries & Personal:
☐ Standard toiletries (or plan to use cabin supplies)
☐ Extra moisturizer and chapstick
☐ Insect repellent
☐ Prescription medications
Documents:
☐ ID/driver’s license
☐ Credit card (for ranch store, tips)
☐ Booking confirmation
Most Important:
☐ Sense of adventure and open mind!
Ready to Experience Wyoming Ranch Life?
Remember, this is a ranch vacation—comfort and practicality beat fashion every time. If you forget something, don’t stress! Our ranch store carries essentials like gloves, stampede strings, and other items.
The most important things to pack aren’t on any list: bring an open mind, a sense of adventure, and readiness to disconnect from everyday life and fully immerse yourself in the beauty and peace of the Wyoming wilderness. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Lazy L&B Ranch!
Questions about what to pack for your dude ranch vacation? Contact us—we’re happy to help!
Ready to book your authentic Wyoming ranch experience? View our rates or submit a reservation request →