What to Pack for Zion National Park. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials

Season-Specific Clothing

Always choose fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin. Layering is a good approach for Zion's quickly changing desert climate.

General Layering

Base Layer: Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics or merino wool. Avoid cotton.
Mid-Layer: A Fleece jacket or Lightweight down jacket for warmth.
Outer Layer: A Waterproof and windproof jacket, e.g., a Columbia Watertight II Jacket.

Activity-Specific Attire

Different activities in Zion require specific clothing for comfort and performance.

Examples

Hiking: Quick-drying shorts or Convertible pants (like Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants), moisture-wicking tops, Sturdy hiking socks.
The Narrows: Quick-drying shorts or pants (avoid jeans), water shoes with good traction, neoprene socks, Wetsuit/drysuit for cold water.
Canyoneering: Durable, quick-drying clothing, knee/elbow pads, specialized climbing apparel.

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking

Sturdy, broken-in Hiking boots with ankle support and traction (Merrell Moab 3 Mid). Trail running shoes for less technical trails.

Break in new boots before your trip.

Water Activities

Specific Water shoes with good grip or sturdy, closed-toe Sandals (e.g., Keen Newport H2) for slippery river rocks.

Avoid flip-flops or open-toed sandals.

Casual

Comfortable walking shoes for exploring Springdale or relaxing after hikes.

Versatile for town and light activities.

Essential Travel Documents

Documentation Checklist

Keeping travel documents organized and accessible prevents issues. Physical and digital copies of all important items are good practice.

Passport & Visa/ESTA: Valid passport, visa confirmation, or ESTA printout.
Travel Insurance: Policy copies, numbers, emergency contacts.
International Driving Permit: If applicable, alongside your home country license.
Vaccination & Health Records: Routine vaccination records, pre-existing conditions documentation.

Reservation Confirmations: Accommodation, car rental, park permits, tours.
Emergency Contacts: Family, friends, embassy/consulate on paper and digitally.
IDs for Discounts: Student, senior (America the Beautiful Senior Pass), or press IDs.
Always have both physical and digital copies for all critical documents.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Modern travel relies on technology. Pack the right electronics and accessories to stay connected, navigate, and capture memories.

Electrical Needs & Phone Options

Power Adapter: U.S. uses Type A/B plugs, 120V at 60Hz. A Universal travel adapter is necessary.
Voltage: Check device dual voltage (100-240V) or use a Voltage converter.
Mobile Phone: Consider a local SIM card or eSIM (e.g., Airalo) for data. Verizon has good rural coverage.

Camera & Charging

Capture Zion's beauty and keep your devices charged on the go.

Photography & Power Advice

Camera: B&H Photo for gear. A Wide-angle lens for landscapes, Telephoto for wildlife. A sturdy tripod for low light.
Batteries & Memory: Bring extra batteries and plenty of memory cards.
Portable Chargers: A High-capacity power bank for long days away from outlets.

Apps & Data Management

Navigation Apps

Google Maps or Apple Maps (download offline maps). AllTrails for hiking. Gaia GPS for backcountry navigation. NOAA Weather Radar Live for forecasts.

Park Information

The official NPS App. Download Zion National Park's content within the app for offline access to maps, shuttle schedules, and alerts.

Data Backup

Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) for photos and documents. Consider an External hard drive for large files.

Health & Wellness Items

Medical & First Aid

A well-stocked health and wellness kit addresses minor issues and keeps you comfortable during your trip.

Kit Contents & Prescriptions

First Aid Kit: Blister treatment (Moleskin), pain relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen), antiseptic wipes, bandages, medical tape, tweezers.
Medications: Anti-diarrhea medication, allergy medication. Carry prescription medications in original containers.
Documentation: A doctor's note or prescription copy for international travel.

Sun, Insects & Water

The desert environment has specific needs for sun and insect protection, plus water purification plans.

Protection & Hydration

Insect Repellent: Choose DEET or picaridin (e.g., Sawyer Products Permethrin) for near water or dusk/dawn.
Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, Lip balm with SPF, sun-protective clothing (e.g., Columbia PFG Tamiami II), wide-brimmed hat (e.g., Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap).
Water Purification: For backcountry, a Portable water filter or purification tablets are necessary.

Motion & Altitude Remedies

Altitude Sickness

Zion's main canyon is low altitude.
Higher elevation parks nearby (Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon North Rim) may cause mild symptoms.
Consider ibuprofen or specific altitude sickness medication as doctor-recommended.

Motion Sickness

Motion sickness medication is useful for winding roads.
Zion-Mount Carmel Highway has switchbacks.
Medication helps if prone to motion sickness.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

Gear for comfort and safety on Zion's trails.

Day pack (e.g., Osprey Talon 22) for water, snacks, layers.
Trekking poles for stability on steep or slippery trails.
Headlamp for early/late hikes or emergencies.
Water filtration system for backcountry water sources.

The Narrows Gear

Specific items for navigating the Virgin River.

Canyoneering shoes or sturdy water shoes with good grip.
Neoprene socks for warmth in cold water.
Waterproof dry bag (e.g., Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack) for electronics.
Hiking poles for stability in the river's current.

Camping & Canyoneering

Specialized gear for overnight stays and technical adventures.

Camping: Tent, Sleeping bag (appropriate temperature rating), sleeping pad, cooking stove.
Canyoneering: Ropes, harnesses, rappelling devices, helmets.
Canyoneering gear is often rented from local outfitters in Springdale.
Experienced canyoneers bring their own specialized equipment.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Items to Rent

Water shoes, neoprene socks, and hiking poles for The Narrows.
Canyoneering gear (ropes, harnesses, helmets) from local outfitters.
These items are readily available in Springdale.

Items to Bring

Broken-in hiking boots and comfortable clothing.
Your day pack, hydration system, and camera gear.
Items you know fit well and perform for you.
Specialty outdoor gear is best purchased before your trip for better prices.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Do not forget small items that improve comfort, security, and convenience.

Travel Comfort & Safety

Neck pillow, Eye mask and earplugs for restful travel.
Small padlock for luggage or hostel lockers.
Money belt or RFID-blocking wallet for valuables.
Flashlight/Headlamp: For early morning hikes, camp, or nighttime walks. A red-light setting preserves night vision.

Reusable & Region-Specific

Help protect Zion's natural beauty by reducing waste and bring specific items that enhance your experience.

Eco-Friendly & Unique Items

Reusable water bottle for refills at park stations.
Reusable shopping bag to reduce plastic.
Reusable utensils for takeout food.
Detailed map of Zion (National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map) and Binoculars for wildlife.

Items Hard to Find Locally

Technical Clothing

Specialized apparel for hiking and outdoor activities. Better to bring.

Quality Footwear

High-performance Hiking footwear that fits well. Best brought from home.

Specific Gear

Outdoor equipment and specialized items. Prices may be higher locally.

Specialty Toiletries

Specific brands or eco-friendly options may be hard to find.

Zion-Specific Advice

For The Narrows

Waterproof camera or Waterproof phone pouch to protect electronics.
Outfitters in Springdale rent canyoneering shoes, neoprene socks, and drysuits.
Consider rental of wetsuits or drysuits for cold water temperatures.

General Park Navigation

Physical map (e.g., National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map) for overview.
A book on Zion's geology or history can enrich your understanding.
Binoculars for wildlife viewing (bighorn sheep) and distant features.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles in your luggage.

Pack a small day bag within your main luggage for daily park excursions.

What to Pack for Zion National Park