The most important thing we could advise is to wear what you are comfortable in and accustomed to wearing. While exploring the national parks and desert landscapes you will see a wide variety in what people choose to wear. Some wear lightweight pants, breathable long-sleeve shirts, and a wide brimmed hat all with the purpose of keeping the sun off the skin. Others find athletic clothing, which allows greater flexibility and better airflow, to be more comfortable to hike in. We recommend that you wear what you feel most comfortable in.
Here are some things to consider when deciding what to wear:
- Dark colors will make you significantly hotter than light colors while in direct sunlight.
- Shoes should have sturdy soles to prevent small rocks and rugged trail surfaces from irritating your feet while hiking. Shoes should have sufficient ankle support as sprains are likely while traversing uneven terrain.
- Close toed shoes or bump toe sandals are highly recommended. Footwear specifically designed for hiking is the best option. Athletic footwear or work boots are sufficient. Flip-flops, leather-soled, slip-ons, and other casual footwear is not recommended.
- Temperature swings are dramatic in the desert. It’s recommended to dress in layers that can be removed during the heat of the day and added again as the evening cools. During summer months (June-August) normal temperatures range from 45 Degrees F (7.2C) to over 100 degrees F (37.8C). Rainfall is very low in these southern areas of Utah. Rainstorms are often short, lasting for as little as a few minutes to a few hours.
Do you recommend I bring certain items in addition to standard travel packing items?
The following is a list of additional items you may find useful if you desire, but are optional:
- Backpack or bag to carry during hiking or excursions
- Camera
- Wide brimmed hat for sun protection and/or knit hat for cold weather
- Sunglasses
- Hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen
- Bug repellent