The Ultimate Zion Packing List: What to Pack for Zion National Park

What to Wear in Zion National Park

When I was packing for Zion, I remember thinking: what should I wear while I’m visiting Zion? I knew that I needed clothing that was versatile and comfortable, but I wasn’t sure where to start. So I brought a little bit of everything – and turns out most of it was unnecessary!

So if you’re wondering what to wear in Zion National Park, I’ve got you covered! Don’t make the same mistake I did and pack too much. Here’s the only Zion National Park clothing you’ll need for your trip:

The Best Clothes to Pack for Zion

• Tops: depending on the forecast at Zion, plan on bringing a variety of fitted tank tops, quick-drying t-shirts, and long sleeve shirts.  The key here is to create versatility through layering, so that you’ll be comfortable throughout the changing temperatures during the day at Zion.
• Packable jacket: It can get downright COLD in Zion Canyon in the morning, so make sure to bring a warm jacket with you.  Look for one that has lightweight material that still provides warmth.  Try to find a jacket that is “packable” and can easily be stuffed into a backpack.  I like this packable jacket because it’s inexpensive, comes in a TON of colors, and it’s easy to stuff in your bag. I guarantee you’ll be taking it off at some point!
• Quick-drying shorts and pants: I recommend bringing both shorts and pants, so that you can layer or choose depending on the weather. I like these quick-drying shorts, and I’m also a fan of these leggings which are super comfortable for hiking.
• Wool socks: Wool is the best choice of fabric for hiking socks. Here’s a great pair that are 100% wool, but aren’t too pricey.
• Bras and underwear: don’t forget to pack sports bras if you’re planning to do some hiking!
• Hat or baseball cap

Need help fitting everything in your bag? Here’s how to pack a suitcase along with the perfect weekend trip packing list.

Zion National Park Hiking Gear

If you’re visiting Zion, you’re probably planning on doing some hiking while you’re there. After all, the hikes in Zion offer some of the country’s most beautiful natural scenery!

It’s important to pack the right hiking gear for Zion, so that you are prepared, can stay comfortable and avoid any risk of injuries. Here’s a list of the essential hiking equipment you’ll need for hikes at Zion.

Hiking Equipment for Zion

Additional Items to Pack for Zion

In addition to clothing and hiking gear, there are a few extra items you should plan on packing for your trip to Zion to make your trip more memorable and smooth.

Other Items to Pack for a Trip to Zion

• Guidebook: Most areas in Zion Canyon don’t get cell phone reception. That’s why it’s so important to bring a guidebook with you when you pack for Zion! I like this guidebook because of its extra sections on Bryce Canyon National Park, as well as the other Utah National Parks.
• Camera
• Waterproof lanyard for your phone: A waterproof lanyard for your phone will especially come in handy if you’re hiking the Narrows and want to keep your phone safe but have easy access to take pictures.
• Binoculars
• National Parks pass: At $80, an America The Beautiful Pass is the way to go! It buys you 12 months of access to all National Parks in the US.
• Bug repellent: I like these bug repellent lotion packets because you can toss them in your bag one day at a time. I’m all about keeping things as lightweight as possible!
• Portable cell phone charger: Don’t be surprised if you run out of phone battery while you’re snapping photos of the jaw-dropping scenery in Zion. Bring an external power source because there aren’t many places to charge your phone in Zion. I like this one because it has the connector cable built-in (one less thing to carry!)
• Hand sanitizer
• First aid kit

Toiletries to Bring to Zion National Park

Last but not least, what toiletries do you need to pack for Zion?

Depending on where you’re staying in Zion, your accommodations may already include some basic toiletries like soap and shampoo.

But regardless of where you’re staying in Zion, it makes sense to be prepared! While there are a handful of stores in Springdale (the town just outside Zion National Park), you may not be able to buy exactly what you need.

So just in case, here’s a list of toiletries and personal items to pack for Zion.

• Shampoo and conditioner
• Moisturizer and lotion
• Soap or shower gel
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Feminine products
• Prescription medicine

For a full, comprehensive list, check out this post on the ultimate toiletry packing list. It’s got everything you’ll need, for any trip you go on!

The Zion packing list in this post should be suitable for most seasons in Zion. Depending on what time of year you’re visiting Zion, though, the conditions can very considerably. So when you’re trying to decide what to bring on your trip to Zion, make sure to think about the weather conditions at Zion, and check them ahead of time!

Below are a few ideas on specific things to pack for Zion depending on what season you’ll be traveling.

What to Pack for Zion in Spring (March, April, May)

The spring months of March, April, and May are a fantastic time to visit Zion. The park tends to be less crowded than it is in the summer and fall. In addition, daytime highs in the spring in Zion can hit the 70’s and low 80’s, so plan for warmer afternoons.

The spring in Zion is when temperatures change quickly throughout the day! The early morning Canyon lows can be in the low 50’s, but climb to the low 80’s by the afternoon.

Packing for a spring trip to Zion may even feel like you’re packing for two different trips! Make sure to bring pieces that are suitable for hot afternoons, but also pack additional layers to keep you warm during chilly mornings before the sun hits the narrow canyon floor.

What to Pack for Zion in Summer (June, July, August)

During the summer months at Zion, expect to feel the heat! It’s not unusual for summer highs in Zion to hit the 90’s and 100’s, with lows in the low 70’s.

If you’re packing for Zion in the summer, you can plan on leaving your warmer layers at home. Instead, make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and even a swimsuit for cooling off in the Virgin River.

What to Pack for Zion in Fall (September, October, November)

What to pack for Zion in the fall can vary considerably depending on whether you’re going in September vs. November. In September, the park still has lingering warm weather, so the list below should be suitable. By November, though, the lows can get down to the high 30’s!

The packing list below should be suitable for September and October, but if you’re going to Zion in November, consider bringing extra warm layers.

What to Pack for Zion in Winter (December, January, February)

Winter is a quiet time to visit Zion, when the park can be enjoyed with fewer crowds. That said, if you’re packing for a winter trip to Zion, make sure to bring plenty of warm clothes! The daily high temperatures will only reach the mid-50’s and the lows can hit freezing temperature, so make sure to pack accordingly.

In addition to the packing list below, you should also pack a hat and gloves, and extra warm layers for exploring in the morning and evening.

Finally, January and February are the rainiest months in Zion. Check the forecast before your trip and pack a rain jacket and umbrella if needed, and make sure your other essentials are water-resistant.