National Parks USA: Hike in Zion National Park

1. Weather Conditions

Located in Utah, United States, this is the oldest national park in the state. The many canyons and cultural sites within the park can be explored in any season. However, spring and fall have the weather that might be good for you and the most spectacular blooms. 

If you want to hike in Zion National Park, it is very important to choose the right season. Weather conditions are best from March to June and September to early November. Moreover, hot summer temperatures and sudden storms are not good for this type of activity. 

Avoid climbing or hiking in gloomy weather with sudden storms season for safety reasons. These occur during July and August, making the sand weak and slippery.

Additionally, for every 984,3 ft the strength of ultraviolet rays increases by 4%. If a sunburn occurs under these circumstances, it will not be the same as a sunburn on the beach. They can be much more damaging to the skin, so it is important to use the necessary equipment to protect yourself from the sun. 

2. Animal communities / Wildlife

Before going on your hike to Zion National Park, know that some cliffs are temporarily closed as they are home to endangered bird species. To protect them, due to the nesting periods of local birds, not all areas are always open to the public. 

Take a trip through Zion National Park and admire its lovely animals. Discover its 78 kinds of mammals, 291 types of birds, and other creatures while being kind to where they live. Spot amazing deer and sneaky reptiles from far away, being friendly to the wildlife in Zion.

This place holds 78 species of mammals, 291 species of birds, 44 species of reptiles, and 8 species of fish. Thus, always maintain a safe distance and pay attention to their movement if you ever spot one.

For example, deer are the most commonly seen species when hiking the Zion National Park. However, as gentle as these creatures seem, they are still wild animals, so don’t get too close or try to feed them.

3. Be accompanied

To hike in Zion National Park, or at any park/mountain alone is not always the best. It is better to have someone help you watch out for wildlife and the unexpected. Both can keep an eye out for animals along the way. Make sure you have the right gear and tell someone where you’re going to have a fun and safe trip.

Even though the decision to explore alone is something personal, it is highly recommended for different reasons. Whether the trail is harder than expected, or the paths are confusing, even the most experienced are bound to face risks.

If you really want to go hiking on your own, be sure the trail is well within your abilities and you’re completely prepared with a working mobile phone. Make sure the area has navigation and a phone signal, and bring enough food and equipment. Equally important, make sure you tell someone where you’re going.

4. Equipment

To save yourself and your feet, look for hiking boots that can withstand the rigors of the mountains. Salomon Quest shoes are a great option, for every taste and size. Furthermore, socks are held together with sturdy boots and warm layering clothing to withstand the elements. A good, practical backpack– with all the essentials to get you to that summit is a must. 

¿What are all those essentials? You should always carry enough and adequate equipment: a sleeping bag, anorak, and a down jacket. It is convenient to include a whistle, flashlight, and mobile phone. Definitely, we recommend this article where we are sure you will find nice options for having the best and most comfortable experience hiking the Zion National Park. Read more here: https://www.divein.com/outdoor/sleeping-bag/

Likewise, it would be ideal that the objects you carry are made of light materials. Although it depends on the complexion of each person, the maximum weight of the hiker’s backpack should be around 13 pounds. 

Keep in mind that what you bring depends on how many days you plan to spend hiking, where you plan to sleep, and what season you are in.

5. Better safe than sorry

For hiking the Zion National Park, or any hiking areas, it is always recommended to avoid unnecessary altercations. For example, bathing in tortuous rivers, entering ravines, or entering wild animal areas. Moreover, it is recommended to use anti-bug repellent and be careful in the swampy terrains of the mountains.

Make sure your pace is constant and regular, without changes in pace, always paying attention to the signs and caring for nature. 

While you hike, breathe through your nose so that the air enters your body with the right temperature and humidity. When resting, wrap up warm and hydrate with water or electrolytes. 

On the other hand, bringing a first aid kit is always a good idea. This is an unavoidable complement to the equipment of any hiking excursion or outdoor activity. Its function is quite simple and important: if something unforeseen occurs, the first-aid kit will allow the wounded to be treated and continue the excursion. In a worst-case scenario, the wounded will be able to wait to get medical attention. 

Think about packing a first-aid kit that will cover all those situations that are more likely to occur:

• Scrapes or burns caused by falls 🩹
• Insect bites 🐛
• Allergies caused by stinging plants 🌺
• Heatstroke or hypothermia 🌨️
• Fatigue 😫
• Shocks caused by falls 🤦

Important: Respect nature

Ultimately, hiking in Zion National Park or any other mountain of your choice means having respect for nature and fellow adventurers.

Don’t take anything home that you haven’t brought with you and bring a plastic bag to carry all the garbage with you. In the end, it is all about enjoying the road and exploring nature, without disturbing wildlife and its surroundings. Certainly, there are endless alternative options for those who want to go hiking in Zion National Park but are not in the US.

For instance, in Mexico, there are options such as el Nevado de Toluca (4,680 m; elevation gain of 538 m), Iztaccihuatl (just till Gate 3 ~ 4500 m: elevation gain of ~500 m), and La Malinche (4,461 m: elevation gain of ~1,275 m). They all are just a couple of hours away from each other as you can see in our Mexico: 3-Day Private Hiking Tour from Mexico City.

Conclusion

To sum up, going on a hike in Zion National Park is an amazing adventure that showcases the beauty of National Parks USA. To hike in Zion National Park can be a challenge for many as it features several 2,000 ft high sand cliffs. But hopefully, with our tips and info, you can explore it more safely. 

When you walk through the rocky ground and look up at the tall cliffs, you feel like you’re part of something special. Zion has lots of different animals and stunning views that remind us why it’s so important to protect nature. So, put on your hiking boots, explore the wilderness, and find the incredible treasures waiting for you in Zion and other national parks across the United States. The National Parks USA are waiting for you!

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