Zion National Park
We finished our road trip through the Southwest at Zion National Park. We saw plenty of red rock on our trip, but Zion’s chiseled vermillion canyons were unrivaled in their majesty.
The most popular hikes are Angels Landing, Observation Point, and the Narrows. We only had time for one rigorous, full-day hike, so we chose the Narrows, since it seemed far and above the most unique experience. The rest of our time in Zion we spent on more chill activities, like the Scenic Drive.
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive—
We arrived in Zion in the afternoon and were able to squeeze in the Scenic Drive before sunset. I recommend coming into Zion from the east if you can for the best views. The scenery is stunning at every twist and turn, and the drive goes slowly enough to take it all in. We hopped in and out of our car to explore the many scenic pullouts. There is also a free shuttle that will take you on this drive.
If you’re a passenger and get motion sick easily, I would recommend some Dramamine as the drive is low and full of twists and turns.
Wearing Everlane shirt, OV tee, Merrell hiking shoes, Adidas shorts, and Darn Tough hiking socks (can’t recommend these socks enough!)
Wearing Reformation biker shorts, Athleta tank, Madewell flannel (few seasons old, similar here and here), Ray Bans, OV sports bra, Columbia sun hat, and Columbia boots.
The Narrows—
Such a unique experience hiking through a canyon and taking in the views from below! Since we knew we’d wading through a river (often knee to neck deep depending on your height) for the entirety of the ~10 mi. round trip hike, we did a ton of research to ensure we were well-equipped.
I’d recommend checking for any flash flood warnings before you go. You’ll also want to check the flow of the Virgin River and the weather forecast, all of which is posted early in the morning at the visitor center. When the flow exceeds 150 cubic feet per second (cfs), the Narrows will be closed for safety. Flows below 50 cfs mean easier hiking.
It’s also important to remember that the temperature at the bottom of the slot canyon is going to be about 10 degrees (Fahrenheit) cooler than the forecast. Start early if you want to do the full ~10 mi. roundtrip hike, so you can finish before the sun sets.
There are some blogs that say you can get away with bringing your own gear or slumming it with hiking sandals, etc, but proper footwear and clothing are essential, even if you’re just doing the day hike from the bottom up (which is what we did). We rented all of our gear from an outfitters near the park, and we were so glad we did, especially as we progressed into the hike and encountered slick, uneven rocks underfoot and several spots where the water came up to our neck.
We did the hike in April and rented the dry pants (they come up waist high for extra coverage), canyoneering boots, neoprene socks, a hiking stick, and a waterproof backpack that came in clutch when I slipped a few times in chest-deep water. Luke is less of a klutz, so he brought his own backpack but kept his valuables in a dry bag. You may not need the dry pants in the peak summer months, but I would still get them if you get cold easily like I do.
We packed our own sun hats and several just-in-case layers as the temperatures fluctuate throughout the hike. I started off the hike in a tank and by the end was wearing a sweater with a layer of heattech underneath (got an XS heattech from the men’s section because I wanted a looser fit)
Since this is a day-long hike, make sure to pack lots of water, snacks, a sandwich (or three!), and a waterproof first aid kit. Take as many breaks as you need and enjoy the other-worldly views!
what i wore
recommended gear for the hike
All opinions are my own, and this post is not sponsored by any brands. It does contain affiliate links, which may give me a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support as it helps me keep this blog going! I fully support each of the brands mentioned.