what to really pack for zion and bryce canyon hikes

We’re gearing up for a week at Zion and Bryce Canyon—three of us, ages 18, 22, and 50, all pretty active but definitely not mountain goats. I’ve been put in charge of figuring out what we actually need to bring, and honestly, it’s been a headache. Every website says something different about what to wear, and no one seems to agree on how cold or hot it gets, especially in the Narrows. Last time we did a local hike, I thought I was prepared, but I ended up freezing in the morning and sweating by noon. I don’t want to make the same mistake in Utah, especially since I’ve heard the water in the Narrows can be ice-cold, even in summer. But then someone else told me it’s fine with just shorts. Which is it? I don’t want to pack my whole closet, but I also don’t want to be miserable the whole trip. If you’ve hiked Zion or Bryce, what did you actually wear and wish you’d brought (or left at home)? Did you regret not renting those fancy water shoes for the Narrows, or was it a waste of money? I feel like every packing list is written by someone who’s never actually been there. Would love to hear what worked for real people, especially if you’ve had to deal with surprise weather or freezing water. It’s stressful trying to get it right, and I’d rather learn from someone else’s mistakes than my own this time. #ZionNationalPark #BryceCanyon #HikingTips #Travel