Do you need water shoes for Zion National Park?

Do I need waterproof shoes for Zion? You do not need waterproof shoes for Zion National Park. If you plan on hiking The Narrows, hydro lace boots are recommended with neoprene socks. These are available to rent at the park, so you do not need to buy any.



People Also Ask

Can a Beginner do the Zion Narrows Day Hike? Yes, beginner hikers can absolutely do the Zion Narrows day hike! Even if you don't have much hiking experience, you will be perfectly fine hiking the Narrows.

MORE DETAILS

Dry pants: During the cooler fall and spring months, dry pants will help keep your legs warm and dry. Dry bibs: If you're likely to encounter sections of the hike with water levels at or above your waist, opt for a dry bib. Waterproof bags/dry sack: For clothing and camera gear.

MORE DETAILS

Something like trail runners is best but quality sneakers should be sufficient. Open-toed shoes of any kind should be left at home. However, hiking sandals are fine for the leisurely hikes in the park.

MORE DETAILS

Water shoes aren't necessary when at a swimming pool. They are recommended at water parks where you will be walking on hot concrete between attractions. They are also recommended at beaches and lakes where you can't see the bottom and you may step on something and injure your feet.

MORE DETAILS

The Narrows hike is easy-to-moderate. It is easy because there are no steep inclines or declines, and since it is an out-and-back hike, it can be as long or as short as you want it to be.

MORE DETAILS

The Narrows stretches for 16 miles but that's if you hike top-down. Most people hike between 2-6 hours on the Narrows hike when starting at the bottom (~6 miles round trip). Since the Narrows hike is an in-and-out trail, whatever mileage and time you put in hiking in, you have to do out.

MORE DETAILS

Even at 50 cfs, the water can be up to 5 feet deep in some places, so time your hike for days when the water level is below 50 cfs if you can. Also, check at the visitor center about the possibility of flash-flooding. If there's even a remote chance of flash-flooding, DO NOT HIKE THE NARROWS.

MORE DETAILS

When Is the Best Time to Hike the Narrows? Start early in the morning to watch as the canyon walls light up with the sunrise. We started our hike around 9 AM and the river was mostly shaded thanks to the height of the canyon walls.

MORE DETAILS

Outfitter stores, such as Zion Outfitter, in the gateway town of Springdale, rent shoes, socks, and walking sticks. In the winter, they rent waders. We've seen plenty of people without the rented gear doing the hike, so it's not necessary. However, I think it is super helpful and I definitely recommend it.

MORE DETAILS

The Zion Canyon Shuttle runs from the Visitor Center to the Temple of Sinawava—the final stop on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The shuttle service typically runs from about 7 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. The shuttle schedule changes slightly from season to season and year to year.

MORE DETAILS