So you’re getting ready to head out on an adventure, a hiking adventure in Zion National Park to be more specific. Because you want to make sure you get the most enjoyment possible out of your trip, you want to be sure to pack all the key essentials. What are the key essentials you ask? We’ve got you covered with this list basics that you’ll want to pack.

What Time of Year Are You Hiking?

First things first, it’s important to look at what the Zion National Park weather will be like when you plan on visiting. Zion’s weather changes from season to season, so typically your best bet is to pack layers. Located in Utah, this park does get all four seasons of weather. In fact, sometimes it can feel like you go through all four of these seasons in just one day – hence the necessary layers!

During the winter months, the temperatures drop quite low (the low teens), which can make hiking uncomfortable if you don’t have the proper gear. On the flip side, the summers can get excruciatingly hot (100◦F and hotter), which can also make hiking uncomfortable. For these reasons, you may want to plan your hiking adventure in the spring or the fall.

It’s not just the temperatures you need to be prepared for it’s also the conditions themselves. Zion receives a lot of humidity, rain, wind, ice, and snow.

Look for a Lightweight Bag

Before we get into the items you’ll want to pack, it’s important to mention what you plan on carrying them in. Try to find a backpack that accommodates all your items but is lightweight. As the day progresses this bag will feel heavier and heavier, so the lighter your bag is the easier you will make it on yourself.

As well you will want to shop for one that is weather resistant so the rain, ice, and snow doesn’t seep through and soak all your gear.

All the Essentials

As far as your packing list goes, there are essentials that every hiker is encouraged to pack no matter how long or short your hike will be. These are:

• Sun protection
• Navigation gear (maps, GPS, compass, etc.)
• Lighting (flashlight, headlamp, and extra batteries)
• Thermal layers of clothing
• Fire starting tools (a lighter or matches)
• A first-aid kit
• Food and drinks
• A knife
• Shelter (even if you don’t plan on staying the night it’s best to be prepared)

Outside of the essentials you will want to pack other items such as your camera, a watch, toilet paper, binoculars, a whistle, hand sanitizer, bug repellent, hiking poles, two-way radios, a satellite phone if your cell phone won’t work, a hat with mosquito netting, and hiking shoes or boots.

Be Prepared and Make the Trip More Enjoyable

By following this list, and taking the time to research what items you need to pack you are guaranteed to have a more enjoyable trip.

 What items do you bring on your hiking trips?