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Trip details · West Rim Trail

West Rim Trail packing checklist

  • ActivityBackpacking
  • ParkZion National Park, UT
  • NearestThe Narrows (bottom-up), 8.3 mi

A high-plateau backpacking trip that ends with a huge descent into Zion Canyon.

Trip details

Distance
About 14.2 mi, Lava Point to the Grotto
Descent
2,500 ft drop from Cabin Spring
Permit
Wilderness permit for overnights
Best season
Late spring and fall (our pick)

Source

"Our pick" seasons are our own call.

Packing list

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Check off what you already have. For anything you still need, there's a product suggestion.

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  2. MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove

    MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove

    $49.95 on Amazon

    Fires aren't allowed in the wilderness.

    Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)
  3. LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

    LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

    $17.95 on Amazon

    Springs are seasonal, so check their status and filter everything.

    Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)
  4. Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol Sleeping Pad

    Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol Sleeping Pad

    $59.95 on Amazon

    Can't be punctured on sandstone or cactus.

    Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)
  5. Black Diamond Spot 400-R Headlamp

    Black Diamond Spot 400-R Headlamp

    $33.88 on Amazon

    For pre-dawn starts before the long descent.

    Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)
  6. Opinel No. 08 Stainless Folding Knife

    Opinel No. 08 Stainless Folding Knife

    $16.28 on Amazon

    For food and cord, without carrying a full tool.

    Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)

Prices and stock checked on Amazon on Oct 12, 2026, and may have changed.

Photos

Zion West Rim Trail - South Guardian Angel
Photo: Michael W · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
View from West Rim Trail Zion January 2011
Photo: Fredlyfish4 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Coordinates 37.3840°N 113.0320°W

Park Zion National Park, UT

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