Zion Travel Tips

Travel Tips in Zion National ParkGeneral Travel Tips:

  • Dress in layers anytime of the year (temperatures may differ with other regional cities)
  • Prepare to acclimate with the altitude as many area attractions in and near Zion National Park have high elevations
  • Since Zion National Park has about 300 sunny days a year, use sun protection (see section below)
  • Drink plenty of fluids because Zion National Park has a hot, dry climate
  • Book rooms in advance because area hotels are usually sold out - click here for Zion National Park lodging information
  • Make activity and entertainment reservations in advance so that you have a solid itinerary before you get here - click here for Zion National Park activity and entertainment information
  • Park Rangers and Tour Guides bring life to the places we visit. With the newest technology available, you can bring a personal tour guide along as you explore the parks. The GPS Ranger guides your visit and presents video information that is relevant to your immediate surroundings. Click here for GeoQuest Tours.
  • Plan where you are going to eat - click here for Zion National Park dining information
  • Consider Utah's liquor laws. For instance, the drinking age is 21, and minors have restricted access to private venues that serve alcohol.

Suggested Clothing:

  • Bandanna (face, head and/or neck covering)
  • Cut-off pants (hiking)
  • Gloves (night/morning wear)
  • Hat (sun & weather protection)
  • Jacket (Warmth - wool/synthetic fiber and/or cotton)
  • Jacket (wind breaker)
  • Pants (heavy duty for outdoors)
  • Rain wear (rain suit/poncho)
  • Shirts (long sleeve for outdoors)
  • Shoes (sport/hiking)
  • Socks (cotton/wool or combination for hiking - one pair for each day)
  • Sweatshirt/sweater/or down vest
  • "T" Shirts (long or short sleeve)
  • Underwear (depends on season/altitude for warmth - 20 to 55 degree/night wear)
  • Warm, long sleeve shirt

First Aid:

One thing that should be at the top of any back country travel checklist is a personal first-aid kit, or a selection of medical supplies to meet emergency medical needs. What you should take will depend on who you are, where you are going and how long you will be staying. Consult your family doctor about these and any other suggestions and additional supplies you may need. We would suggest the following minimum items be considered:

  • Antiseptic
  • Ace bandage
  • Band-aids
  • Burn ointment
  • Chap stick
  • First aid tap
  • Foot (blister) pads/powder
  • Gauze compresses
  • Salt tablets
  • Sharp knife
  • Suntan lotion

Miscellaneous:

  • Compass
  • Day pack with (2 qts of water)
  • Ear Plugs
  • Eye Wash
  • Fire starter
  • Survival blanket
  • First aid kit (See 1st Aid)
  • Flashlight/extra batteries
  • Matches (water proof)
  • Paper/pencil
  • Pocket knife
  • Sewing kit
  • Soap (washing & hand - biodegradable)
  • Sun Glasses
  • Toilet paper (In plastic packets)
  • Towels (Wet)
  • Water containers (two, 1 quart bottles)

Sun Protection:

Keep in mind that the ultraviolet radiation of the sun which will burn you is stronger at higher elevations and are most intense in tropical, snow and water environments. Wear protective hats and other coverings when in the sun. A natural suntan which has been obtained slowly helps protect you from sunburn, however, the kind of tan you get from a bottle doesn't.
When you buy a commercial sunscreen product look for a SPF (sun protection factor) rating on the package.

  • SPF 2 to 4 = Minimal protection for people who rarely burn and tan easily and deeply.
  • SPF 4 to 6 = Moderate protection for people who tan well with minimal burn.
  • SPF 6 to 8 = Extra protection for people who burn moderately and tan gradually.
  • SPF 8 to 15 = Maximum protection from sunburning for people who always burn easily and tan minimally.
  • RECOMMENDED - SPF 15 or greater = Ultra protection from sunburn, offers the most protection which permits no sun tanning for people who burn easily and never tan.

Toiletries:

  • Laundry bag
  • Mirror
  • Sleep wear
  • Sanitary supplies
  • Shaving articles
  • Sewing kit
  • Soap
  • Tooth brush & paste
  • Towel (bath/hand)
  • Wash cloth
  • Wet towels

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