Zion National Park Packing List for Summer and Winter
If you’re planning a trip to Zion National Park, you’ll need to know what to pack. Here’s our Zion National Park Packing List for summer and winter so you’re prepared no matter when you go!
You’ll also want to use our Zion National Park travel guide that includes other helpful tips and resources to plan your trip.
The climate and altitude in southern Utah can be harsh if you’re not prepared with the right clothing, hydration, food, personal items and hiking gear.
Keep reading to see the full list of items to pack. You can download the checklist below!
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ZION NATIONAL PARK PACKING LIST
The US National Parks Pass is a good deal and should be the first thing you pack! The America the Beautiful Annual Pass costs $80 and is valid for one year from the date of purchase. For the most current information on passes, reference the National Park Service website.
The pass allows two signatures so it can be shared, and the two people don’t have to be related. You will need to show photo ID each time you use the pass.
Order passes online or get them at any of these Federal Recreation Areas. We like to BUY THE PASS AT REI because we can get it right away… and they will donate 10% of sales to the National Park Foundation.
Hiking Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes when Visiting Zion National Park because sneakers and sandals aren’t the best when walking along the trails in the park.
- HIKING SHOES – our favorite are Merrell Moab hiking shoes of course!
- WINTER BOOTS – you’ll want Insulated boots for winter hiking – there won’t be much snow, but it will be cold!
- HIKING SOCKS – Darn Tough socks are the BEST socks ever – really!
- TREKKING POLES
Outdoor Gear we recommend! Travel Gear & Hiking Gear
Clothing to Wear
Wicking clothing is important because it pulls moisture (sweat) away from you and moves it to the fabric’s outer surface, where it can dry quickly.
This type of clothing is best year-round. It lets you break a sweat without feeling clammy or chilled, and it’s perfect for the desert climate at Zion.
It’s all about the LAYERS when doing outdoor activity.
- CLOTHING – wicking, quick-drying clothing: underclothes, long sleeve UV shirts, pants or shorts
- FLEECE JACKET is a staple clothing item for outdoor adventure!
- RAIN JACKET
- WINTER INSULATED JACKET
- HEAD WEAR – bandana, buff headband or brimmed sun hat
- WINTER HAT – insulating hat
- WINTER GLOVES – Insulating gloves, photographer gloves
Daypack Items
Hydration is KEY at Zion National Park due to the climate and altitude in southern Utah.
READ: Hydration Basics by REI
- Reusable water bottle
- Hydration system
- Healthy snacks
- Map of Arches National Park
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm – you’ll feel the dry air at Zion!
- Hand lotion – your skin will be happy!
- Sunglasses
- Toilet paper
- Disposable urination device & feminine hygiene products
- Toilet bags
- Hand sanitizer or wet wipes
- First aid kit
- Bags to pack out trash
Other Items to Pack
- Cell phone
- Portable charger
- Zion guide books & maps
- Blister balm – you won’t need this if you wear Darn Tough socks (just sayin’)
- Moleskin
Camera Equipment to Pack
For taking pictures at Zion, be sure you have all the camera gear necessary to capture the stunning landscape!
Grab our Zion National Park Photography Guide with tips and best times to take pictures at each point of interest!
BUY AT AMAZON: Zion National Park Guides and Maps
Plan Your Vacation To Zion National Park
- Zion National Park Travel Guide
- Best Time to Visit Zion National Park
- Things to do at Zion National Park
- Zion National Park Tours
Where to Stay Near Zion National Park
You definitely want to stay in Springdale which borders the entrance to Zion.
- Holiday Inn Express – our favorite place to stay with an outdoor pool and amenities you’d find in a high end hotel
- Zion Lodge – we haven’t had a chance to stay here yet, but you can’t go wrong staying right IN the park!
- Under Canvas Zion – if you want to experience a less crowded part of Zion, this is the place! It’s in the Kolob section of the park.
- Vacation Rentals in Springdale – you’ll want to stay in Springdale so you’re close to the park entrance and can walk to shopping and restaurants.
Resources for camping near Zion:
