What to wear when hiking the Grand Canyon?

Answer 1

While hiking you should wear synthetic clothes. Synthetic clothing retains more heat when wet and dries faster than natural fibers. Your average poly-blend style shirt can dry in less than an hour where as cotton can take many hours to a day. The speed your clothing dries is very important for hiking, because temperatures can fluctuate rapidly and your body temperature will also fluctuate as you speed up and slow down. Getting caught in the cold with wet clothes is a recipe for disaster.

You should also make sure to wear many thin(er) layers as opposed to few thick layers. Layers allow you to more easily adjust your own body temperature by adding and removing them as needed.

Finally, make sure to always bring spare clothes (especially socks and underwear) in a water tight container. A large zip-lock bag or a commercial dry sack are fine for this purpose.

Check out the related link below, "Tips for Safe Hiking", for more info on what to pack for a hike.

Answer 2

You need to be prepared for a variety of weather and changing conditions. Current weather information for Zion, including a forecast, is the NOAA website: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?map.x=132&map.y=360&minlon=-115.5&maxlon=-108.5&minlat=36.96&maxlat=42.68&mapwidth=354&site=slc

In general, the best advice is to wear several thin layers so you can adjust to changing conditions. While hiking, it's good to wear something close to your body that wicks moisture, such as a polypropylene shirt.

In cooler parts of the year, it's also good to have a hat, gloves, and a windbreaker. Fleece always makes a good, breathable layer that will keep you warm.

In the summer, it can be very hot, and hikers need to bring sun protection such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and lots and lots of water.

Answer 3

Comfortable clothing that is appropriate for weather conditions is always best. Synthetic fibers (nylon, polyester, etc.) that dry quickly are good choices. Cotton is not good because it doesn't dry quickly.

Answer 4

The main things you want are strong hiking boots or shoes, water and a map. If it will be night time you should take a torch and obviously if you are staying overnight you should take a tent and sleeping bag. Energy bars are also useful, as is a mobile telephone - though depending on where you are you may not get a signal. Always make sure someone knows where you are planning to travel to in case of any problems. It is definitely worth investing a bit in good quality equipment, such as source outdoor who have a range of products for hiking and cycling.

Answer 5

Grand Canyon experts suggest wearing leather hiking boots that provide both ankle and arch support.