Zion Packing Checklist: Everything You Need for the Park (Free PDF)

I’ve explored Zion National Park in all four seasons, from triple-digit heat to snow-dusted canyon walls. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that packing smart makes all the difference-between a comfortable, unforgettable experience or one cut short by sunburn, blisters, or dehydration.

This is your ultimate Zion National Park packing checklist, based on years of boots-on-the-ground experience and designed to help you hit the trails prepared and confident. Plus, you can download the free printable version at the end of this post.

What to Pack for Zion National Park

We’ll break it down into categories:

• Day hike essentials
• Clothing by season
• Specialized gear for Narrows/Angels Landing
• Extras for families or photographers
• What NOT to bring

Day Hike Essentials (Must-Haves for Everyone)

Whether you’re tackling Angel’s Landing or just strolling the Pa’rus Trail, these are your baseline must-haves:

• Hydration system: At least 2 liters of water per person in a hydration bladder or bottle.
• Snacks & electrolytes: Salty trail mix, energy bars, or fruit leather. Heat and hiking deplete you fast.
• Sun protection: Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, wide-brim hat, and polarized sunglasses.
• Trail map / offline navigation app: Phone signal is unreliable in the canyon.
• First aid basics: Band-aids, blister pads, ibuprofen, allergy meds.
• Small pack / daypack: Lightweight with a hip belt and internal hydration sleeve.
• Headlamp or flashlight: Especially if you’re hiking before sunrise or into dusk.
• Multi-tool or pocket knife: Useful for unexpected fixes on the trail.

Pro tip: Zion’s heat and elevation make hydration and sun protection non-negotiable. I once saw a tourist hit the trail with a coffee and no water. He didn’t make it far.

What to Wear in Zion (By Season)

Spring (March–May)

• Breathable base layers
• Rain jacket (quick storms)
• Convertible pants (mornings can be chilly)
• Trail runners or light hiking boots

Summer (June–August)

• Moisture-wicking t-shirt or tank
• Lightweight sun hoodie or long sleeve with UPF
• Quick-dry shorts
• Wide-brim hat
• Cooling towel or neck gaiter

Fall (September–November)

• Layers! Mornings = cold, afternoons = warm
• Lightweight fleece or windbreaker
• Hiking pants or leggings

Winter (December–February)

• Insulated jacket
• Beanie and gloves
• Wool base layers
• Waterproof hiking boots with good tread
• Microspikes (some trails get icy)

Gear for the Narrows Hike (River Hike Musts)

The Narrows is iconic-and wet. If you plan to hike upstream in the Virgin River, bring:

• Closed-toe water shoes or canyoning boots
• Neoprene socks (especially in spring/fall)
• Hiking poles or a sturdy wooden stick (river current is strong)
• Dry bag or waterproof phone pouch
• Quick-dry shorts and layers
• Insulated gear for cold water months

Renting gear in Springdale is an option, but owning your own is cleaner, cheaper over time, and better for future adventures.

Gear for Angels Landing (High Exposure Hike)

If you’re lucky enough to score a permit for Angels Landing:

• Grippy, broken-in hiking shoes (this is not a trail for worn-out sneakers)
• Thin gloves for gripping chains
• Small daypack that won’t throw off your balance
• Don’t bring: Bulky gear, heavy camera setups, or pets (not allowed)

Optional But Smart Add-Ons

• Binoculars (for spotting bighorn sheep or California condors)
• Camera + lightweight tripod
• Insect repellent (spring runoff = bugs)
• Zion trail guidebook
• Phone battery pack / charger
• Trash bag or ziplocks (Leave No Trace)
• Reusable cutlery + lunch gear (picnic spots abound!)

Family-Specific Items

• Kids hydration packs (make it fun-they’ll drink more water)
• Sun-protective clothing for kids
• Child carrier for toddlers
• Plenty of snacks and downtime breaks
• Baby wipes and extra ziplocks
• Stickers or animal-spotting bingo cards

What NOT to Pack

• Drones: Not allowed in any national park.
• Speakers / loud music: Zion is about serenity and natural sounds.
• Heavy boots if you don’t need them: Trail runners are often better.
• Too much gear: Keep it simple. You’re there to explore, not haul a warehouse.

Free Printable Zion Packing Checklist (PDF)

We’ve taken everything from this list and made it downloadable so you can check it off at home, in your hotel, or even while packing your car.

👉 Download Your Zion Packing Checklist (PDF)

Perfect for:

• First-time visitors
• Families
• Guided tours
• Solo hikers
• Anyone hitting the Narrows or Angels Landing

Ready to Gear Up?

If you still need to stock up, we’ve curated the Zion Gear Collection just for you. It includes:

• Sun hoodies and moisture-wicking tees
• Hydration packs
• Compact first aid kits
• Zion-themed apparel and stickers

Shop the Zion Gear Collection Now »

Packing for Zion doesn’t need to be stressful. With the right gear and preparation, your trip will be safer, more comfortable, and a lot more fun. Print the checklist, pack light but smart, and get ready for one of the most unforgettable landscapes in America.