Golden hour glow from Tatahatso Point , Hidden Horseshoe Bend Arizona.
Photo Credit : Ricardo Cooper

Spoiler alert: sunscreen is your new best friend.🧴🌄

So you’re headed out to explore Arizona’s mind-blowing red rocks, winding canyons, and wide-open skies. Whether you’re trekking through Antelope Canyon, heading out on a tour to Tatahatso Point, or just stretching your legs at Horseshoe Bend, there are a few trail essentials you do not want to leave behind.

We’ve seen it all—from the over packers to the “I-thought-flip-flops-were-fine” folks—so let’s make sure you’re trail-ready (and blister-free).

1. 🧴 Sunscreen: Your Desert Armor

Arizona sun isn’t just sunshine—it’s Sunshine™ Ultra Deluxe Edition. Even in cooler months, those UV rays don’t mess around. A solid SPF 30 or higher, water-resistant sunscreen will save your skin from turning into a crispy critter by mile two.

💡 Pro tip: Don't forget the back of your neck and your ears!

2. 💦 Hydration Pack or Water Bottle: Liquid Gold

The desert is dry. Like “where did my sweat go?” dry. Whether you’re on a short hike or an all-day adventure, you’ll want at least 2 liters of water per person.

CamelBak-style hydration packs are our favorite—they let you sip while you hike without breaking stride. Bonus points if it has room for snacks.

💡 Insider tip : If you book with Jhani’s LLC for a guided tour adventure to the “Hidden Horseshoe Bend” East Rim of the Grand Canyon Tatahatso Point, you will receive a complimentary 16.9 fl oz bottle of water for each participant in your group. We got your hydration covered.

3. 🥜 Snacks: Trail Fuel FTW

You’ll thank yourself when you hit that halfway point. Think lightweight, high-energy snacks: trail mix, protein bars, jerky, dried fruit—anything that keeps your legs moving and your spirits high.

And yes, this is your official permission to bring gummy bears.

4. 👟 Sturdy Footwear: No Flip-Flop Zone

We love a good fashion moment, but the trail is not the place for flimsy shoes. Leave your flip flops for the beach. Arizona’s terrain is rocky, dusty, and sometimes a little slippery. Go for hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes with good grip and ankle support.

Trust us, your ankles and knees will thank you later.

5. 🧢 Hat & Sunglasses: Instant Cool Factor

Shade is a rare gem in the desert, so bring your own! A wide-brimmed hat keeps the sun off your face, and polarized sunglasses protect your eyes (and make you look like a total hiking pro in photos).

Plus, you’ll feel like Indiana Jones. Who doesn’t want that?

🎒 Bonus Tip: Pack Light, Pack Smart

Everything on this list fits easily in a small daypack. Just toss in a map, a small first-aid kit, and maybe a bandana (you’ll find 100 uses for it), and you’re golden.

If you’re joining one of our tours, we’ll remind you of these essentials—so you’re fully prepped and ready to explore the beauty of Northern Arizona like a champ.

Happy hiking, trailblazers! 🏜️

Top 5 Must Haves for your Northern Arizona Hike