Zion Packing List

Pack for slot canyons, sandstone cliffs, and river hikes

National Park · Utah Best time: March–May and September–November Beginner to Expert
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Zion National Park features towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and the famous Virgin River Narrows. Angels Landing and The Narrows are two of America's most iconic hikes. Use this packing guide as a starting point, then let PackList's AI personalize it based on your exact dates, activities, and gear preferences.

About Zion National Park Service

Follow the paths where people have walked for thousands of years. Gaze up at massive sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that soar into a brilliant blue sky. Experience the tall, stretching walls of a narrow slot canyon. Zion’s unique array of plants and animals will enchant you as you absorb the rich history of the past and enjoy the excitement of present-day adventures.

Current Weather & Patterns

63°F — Clear (current forecast).

Current Park Alerts National Park Service

Stage 2 fire restrictions in effect Caution

No setting, building, maintaining, attending, or using open fires of any kind in the park. This includes campfires and charcoal fires in Watchman Campground, South Campground, and picnic areas in Zion Canyon. Stoves fueled by petroleum or liquid propane gas are allowed. Smoking is allowed only in non-vegetated areas.

Lava Point Campground Closed Park Closure

The Lava Point Campground is closed through June 3, 2026.

Large vehicle restrictions come into effect on June 7, 2026 Information

Beginning June 7, 2026, the park will enforce existing size and weight limits on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway. Vehicles that exceed length, width, height, or weight limits will not be allowed to travel between Canyon Junction and the park's East Entrance. See the upcoming limits on the page linked below.

Angels Landing Pilot Permit Program Information

Everyone who hikes Angels Landing needs to have a permit. Learn why you need a permit and how to get one. This requirement does not affect entering the park or riding the park shuttle (when it is running).

Toxic Cyanobacteria in the Virgin River and the streams of Zion National Park Caution

Do not submerge your head in or filter drinking water from still or moving water.

Please park legally and responsibly in Zion National Park and the Town of Springdale Information

Zion has limited parking space. Park only in designated stalls. Vehicles parked outside of designated stalls are subject to citation and may be towed. Once all designated parking stalls in Zion are full, visitors should park in Springdale.

Essential Gear & Permits

Must-Have Essentials

  • Water shoes or neoprene socks (for The Narrows)
  • Dry bag or waterproof pack liner
  • Trekking poles with rubber tips for Narrows
  • Permit for Angels Landing and The Narrows (lottery system)
  • Sunscreen SPF 50+
  • Headlamp
  • First aid kit

What to Wear

Clothing & Footwear

  • Quick-dry shorts and shirt (for Narrows wading)
  • Wool base layer for cool canyon temps
  • Waterproof jacket (flash flood season)
  • Sturdy hiking boots for dry trails
  • Water shoes or Chacos for wet hikes
  • Warm layer for evening — temps drop fast in canyon

Gear & Equipment

Backpacking & Camping Gear

  • Dry bag for camera and electronics in Narrows
  • Water filter (Virgin River contains bacteria)
  • Trekking poles (adjustable — different heights in water vs. trail)
  • Daypack (30–40L for day hikes)
  • Satellite communicator for backcountry
  • Sandstone-friendly sunglasses with UV protection

Food & Nutrition

Food Planning

  • Salty snacks for hot days
  • Hydration mix for electrolytes
  • Lightweight lunch (PB&J, wraps, bars)
  • Water: minimum 3 liters for full-day hikes

Safety Tips for Zion

Flash floods can be deadly in slot canyons — check weather upstream, not just locally

Angels Landing chains are crowded — go early

The Narrows can close suddenly — always check conditions at the visitor center

Quicksand exists in some canyon areas — test before stepping

Popular Activities

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