What to Pack for Zion National Park in Summer

Byilive4travel

It can be hard to know what to pack for Zion National Park in Summer and how to dress for it as the weather is different all year.  Visiting Zion National Park is great when you have the right clothes, but if you don’t dress correctly, it can really impact how much you enjoy a place.

Make sure not to overpack and know what to wear when visiting this stunning park in summer. With this guide you will have the right clothes and accessories with you and only the essentials, so that you are packing for the right season, without bringing your whole wardrobe from home.

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Summer is the rainy season in Zion National Park, so despite it also being the hottest time of the year, you need to be prepared for rain and including the fact that it may not be possible to hike the Narrows either due to late snow run off as late as June or by flash flooding in Summer.

The average daytime temperatures are in the 80s°F, though with highs often reaching into the 90s°F (32-37°C), making for hot conditions when you are exploring the park. Evenings offer some relief, with temperatures cooling to around 60°F (15°C), creating pleasant conditions for evening hikes, which are possible as the sun sets between 8pm and 9pm, depending on the month.

Keep reading to find out what to bring if you are planning on hiking or just enjoying the park.  This is based on what you will need for the day after having left your accommodation or campsite and what to wear hiking in summer. 

 

Tips for enjoying Zion National Park

  • Before you set out, stop by the visitor center to get the latest weather update and check for any flash flood warnings.
  • Take a layer with you as early mornings and late evenings can be a cooler than during the day.
  • Wear well-broken-in hiking boots with a solid grip. Some trails can be slick in spots with loose gravel or if it has rained, so reliable footwear is key for staying safe.
  • Don’t overlook your socks, high-quality hiking socks can go a long way in preventing painful blisters.
  • If you’re planning to hike The Narrows, bring proper water shoes. Parts of the trail can have you wading through chest-deep water, and regular boots won’t cut it, they’ll get heavy and won’t dry quickly.
  • Carry more water than you think you’ll need, and top up at filling stations around the park. Dehydration can sneak up on you, especially in summer.
  • Bring a flashlight or headlamp in case you’re still out after dark and need help navigating back to the road.
  • If you want to hike Angels Landing, then make sure to apply for your permit in advance

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Zion Clothing and Footwear in Summer

Summer in Zion National Park is hot, dry, and intense, so dressing with the correct clothing is essential for comfort and safety. Lightweight clothing is your best bet to stay cool and dry on the trails. Long-sleeved shirts and pants in breathable fabrics help regulate body temperature and offer protection from the sun.

A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are also must-haves for shielding your face and eyes from strong UV rays. When it comes to footwear, opt for sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip as many paths are uneven. If you’re hiking The Narrows, water shoes with strong soles are essential for traction in the river.

Zion Gear List

Packing the right gear for your time in the park can make all the difference to your experience. Essentials include a reusable water bottle or hydration pack, a backpack and camera, to get amazing pics. Trekking poles can help on steeper hikes and uneven paths, and a flashlight or headlamp is smart to have just in case you’re out after dark. If you’re planning to hike The Narrows, then trekking poles, and a dry bag to protect your belongings are good to have.

Toiletries Packing List

Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF are essentials to protect your skin from the strong desert sun. Bug spray can be handy, especially in the evenings. Make sure to also pack any medication you need.

Snacks and Water

Pack enough food, snacks, and water to last the entire day, you never know when a hike might take longer than expected or if plans suddenly change. High-energy options like protein bars, apples, and cookies are great for keeping your stamina up.

For more demanding hikes, bring at least 2 liters of water. Refill stations are available at key shuttle stops including The Grotto, Zion Lodge, and the final stop before the Narrows trailhead, make the most of them. If you’re hiking near the river or doing the Narrows, a filtered water bottle is a smart backup in case you run low.

Zion Lodge is the only place inside the park where you can buy food, so it’s wise to bring everything you’ll need for the day with you and you can find plenty of shops in Springdale, just outside the park entrance.

And finally, whatever you pack in, pack it out. Help keep Zion beautiful by taking all your rubbish with you.

Summary of things to pack for Zion National Park:

  • Food – lunch
  • Snacks – Protein bars, bananas, cookies
  • Water – minimum 2 litres

What to wear hiking The Narrows

For a day hike through The Narrows, it’s best to wear shorts or quick-drying trousers, as parts of the trail can require wading through water that may reach your waist, or even higher. Bringing a change of clothes is a smart move, especially if you plan on hiking back in comfort.

Traditional hiking boots aren’t ideal for this trail. Instead, opt for water-appropriate footwear like water shoes or neoprene socks. The riverbed is uneven and often slippery, so you’ll need something designed for wet, rocky conditions. These options provide better grip, protect your feet, and dry faster than standard boots.

Where to stay near Zion National Park

You can visit Zion National Park as a day trip from Las Vegas, but keep in mind it’s roughly a 2 hour and 45 minute drive each way. To make the most of your visit, you’ll need to leave Vegas early, though in summer it is light in the park until 8pm or 9pm depending on the month.

Within the park itself, the only accommodation option is Zion Lodge. You can choose between staying in a lodge room or one of the charming on-site cabins. There’s also a restaurant and café available, so you won’t need to leave the park for meals.

Just outside the park lies Springdale, the closest town to Zion’s entrance. It’s the most convenient base for visiting the park, with a shuttle service running through town and directly into Zion. Despite its small size, Springdale offers a great mix of restaurants, coffee shops, diners, and boutique stores, making it a popular place to stay.

 

Suggested Travel Reading:

To read more about Zion the check out Lonely Planet Utah National Parks or if you plan on visiting more National Park’s then the Moon USA’s 63 National Parks.

Still planning your trip to Zion, then don’t forget to check out our Zion National Park Travel Guides below:

I hope you find this guide useful on Zion National Park clothing and gear you need.  If there is anything you think I need to add to the list then drop me a note below.

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