A winter cruise through Zion on your e-bike rental can be just as fun as a summer adventure—or perhaps even more so!
Winter is one of Zion National Park’s best-kept secrets. The season sees the lowest crowd levels, which means wide open trails and more peace and quiet in the park’s hotspots. For much of the season, the Zion Canyon Shuttles aren’t in operation, which means less traffic on the roads while you ride. And while the park does experience snow a few days a year, for the most part, Zion and the rest of Southern Utah experiences a mild winter season.
But while you might not find yourself riding through snow, temperatures are still much cooler this time of year. This is a great chance from the triple-digit temperatures that Zion sees during the summer months. But it does mean that you’ll want to bring the right clothing along to stay warm and comfortable while you ride.
If you’re planning to rent an e-bike from Greater Zion E-Bikes during your winter adventure in Zion, keep reading. We’re breaking down what you should wear for your ride.
Dress in Layers
Just like during the summer months and the shoulder season, the weather can vary throughout the day in Zion during the winter. Temperatures in the middle of the day are often in the high 40s or 50s Fahrenheit. But the mornings and evenings, before the sun rises over the canyon, might be chilly.
Dressing in layers can help with this. With the right layers, you can dress warm early in the day, shed layers as the day starts to warm, then add them again later in the day. Layering also helps you stay warmer in freezing temps.
If you’re planning a ride on a particularly chilly day, choose your layers with care. Start with a warm, wicking base layer. This layer is designed to wick sweat away from your body. Even though your e-bike will help power you up hills and over long distances, you will still be doing some pedaling! Next, add a middle layer. This layer should be as warm as possible, as it is there to lock in your body heat. A fleece sweater or down jacket is a great choice. Finally, add an outer layer, which should help keep the elements out.
Skip the Cotton
Your favorite cotton long-sleeve t-shirt, warm hoodie, joggers, or leggings might be perfect for a ride through the park on a warm spring or fall day. But they aren’t a great choice if you’re exploring Zion during the chilly winter months.
When you’re hiking, biking, horseback riding, or riding your e-bike rental through the park, you need clothing that wicks moisture away from your skin. Without wicking fabric, rain, sweat, and any other moisture will cling to your skin. When cool air blows through, you’ll be left chilled.
If you’ve ever heard the phrase, “cotton kills,” you might already know that cotton doesn’t wick moisture away. Wearing cotton base layers is likely to leave you chilled, even if you’re wearing multiple layers over top. Instead, opt for synthetic fabrics or wool, both of which will help get water and sweat away from your skin and help it to evaporate quickly, which will help keep you warm and comfortable while you ride.
Wear a Waterproof Outer Layer
Your chosen outer layer is just as important as that wicking base layer. The outer layer of your clothing should be waterproof and windproof. Even if the weather doesn’t call for rain, a waterproof layer will lock out the elements, like wind or snow. It will also protect you from a chilly breeze as you speed through the canyon on your Zion e-bike rental!
Cover Your Extremities
When you’re planning your layers, don’t forget that you’ll also need to cover your extremities. A helmet is provided with your e-bike rental and is a must for riding through the park. But on cold days, a close-fitting skull cap can fit under your helmet and provide a little extra warmth.
It’s also a great idea to pack a pair of gloves. Opt for gloves that fit your hands well and that you can easily grip your handlebars with. A buff or scarf that you can tie is also great for keeping the wind off your neck and lower face if you’re riding on a cool day.
Enjoying an E-Bike Rental During Your Winter Adventure in Zion
Dressing for the weather is a must for any outdoor adventure. The right winter clothing will not only keep you comfortable, but also safe, whether you’re hiking, horseback riding, or enjoying an e-bike rental from Greater Zion E-Bikes in Zion National Park. It’ll also allow you to take advantage of the incredible winter season in Zion!
Ready to start planning your own winter adventure in the park? Click here to reserve an e-bike rental for your stay!