Hiking and Outdoor Gear for Spring in the Southwest

Spring in the American Southwest is unpredictable. Yes, the days get warmer and sunnier, but once the sun goes down, the nights can be frigid. It can also be windy— as someone who currently lives in Utah and spends a lot of time in the desert near Moab and Zion, the spring gusts are no joke. And if you're not prepared, you might spend the afternoon getting pelted with sand.

The right gear makes all the difference. First, you'll need breathable layers that keep the sun off your skin but won't make you overheat. If you're planning on staying past sundown or spending the night, you'll need plenty of warmth, so layers and the appropriate sleeping set-up are key. Whether you’re hiking through red rock canyons, camping under the stars, or just trying to stay comfortable in the ever-changing weather, these picks below will help you handle whatever Southwest spring throws your way.

1. Hikerkind Trail Sun Hoodie

When the spring's desert sun is relentless, you need a layer that protects without weighing you down. I personally love the Hikerkind Trail Sun Hoodie—a lightweight, breathable top designed to keep you covered while wicking away sweat. The fabric provides UPF 50+ sun protection for long stretches of time in the sun (key at higher altitudes!), and the relaxed fit never feels clingy when temps start to rise. Throw it on for hikes, camping trips, or over a swimsuit as a cover-up.

2. Tom Beckbe Canvas Daypack

This stylish, yet functional daypack is the perfect size for a weekend trip in the Southwest. With a protective laptop sleeve and roomy main compartment, it also has padded straps and two exterior pockets. The outer fabric is weatherproof while the interior has a waterproof liner.

3. Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat

Spring in the Southwest calls for a hat that provides ample shade without leaving you sweaty, like this one from Sunday Afternoons. Its wide, bendy brim can be moved up or down to keep the sun off your face throughout the day. And it's not just for days in the desert, but on the water, too; the brim is filled with foam, so if it flies off in a wind gust into the water, it'll float. Perfect for spring river trips.

4. Outdoor Research Deviator Wind Jacket

Speaking of wind, you'll want to pack a shell to keep you from getting chilled. The Outdoor Research Deviator Wind Jacket is ultralight but still provides enough warmth for early morning starts and shady canyon hikes. It blocks wind without making you overheat, plus, it packs down super small, so you can stuff it in your bag when the temperatures start to rise.

5. Yeti Rambler 26oz

No matter the season, no matter the region, hydration is key! But if there's ever a time to bring your water bottle, it's spring in the Southwest. Longer days in the sun call for proper water intake, and a stainless steel water bottle like this one from Yeti will keep your beverages cold for hours on end. Plus, the new built-in straw cap makes sipping while you stroll along a breeze. It doesn't hurt that it comes in a rainbow of colors, either, so you're sure to find one that matches your personality perfectly.

6. Sea to Summit Boab Sleeping Bag

Desert nights can be shockingly cold, and this sleeping bag makes sure you don’t wake up shivering at 3 a.m. The Sea to Summit Boab Sleeping Bag is lightweight and packable, but still warm enough to handle spring's inevitable temperature drops. It’s designed to be breathable, so you won’t overheat if it’s a mild night, and the roomy fit means you can shift around without feeling like a burrito. Bonus: Its fill, shell, and liner are all made from recycled materials, making it easier on the planet.

7. Goodr Wrap G Sunglasses

Spring wind can create swirls of dust and sand, which is why a pair of oversized sunglasses can come in handy. These Goodr Wraps are lightweight, grippy, and made to stay put. They’re polarized to cut glare and the wraparound style keeps out dust and debris away from flying into the sides of your eyes. Plus, they’re budget-friendly (around $35 each) so you won’t panic if you drop them in the sand or they get scratched.