About us

Zion Adventures started in February 1996 as Zion Adventure Company, when Rick Praetzel, an ex-high school math teacher, tried to hike the Narrows but the water temperature was frigid. He previously hiked it on another occasion and told his friends hiking would be no problem with the right gear. When the group drove back to Springdale looking for equipment to rent, they found nothing. "It's too cold," everyone said, "Come back in summer." Well, years of outfitting experience on the rivers in Pennsylvania led Rick to hatch a plan. Why not provide gear that would make hiking the Zion Narrows more comfortable, safe, and accessible year-round?

 

After searching for the right gear and finding none, the first Narrows Canyon drysuits were innovated and manufactured at Henderson Aquatics in New Jersey. The innovation continued with Five Ten, formerly known as a rock climbing shoe manufacturer, on the final design of the Canyoneer - the first canyoneering shoe on the market. With the desire to enable more visitors to explore the mystical canyon, Zion Adventure Company brought the idea of Narrows outfitting and package rentals to Springdale, Utah.

 

At the time, anything that could be designed and made by hand, was - the sign above the door, the Narrows orientation map painted on sliding dry erase boards, all of the store displays, benches - everything. We even introduced the idea of the Narrows orientation, outlining the risks and providing tips for hiking up river. In '96, the idea of Narrows specific gear was so radical, it took quite some time to gain support from the community. As a matter of fact, we were told over and over again that the idea just wouldn't work. But one man, Larry McKown - former owner of Flanigan's Inn - agreed to let us rent one of his storage buildings if we cleaned it out. His belief in encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit is what gave us a chance to set down roots and make our idea a reality. Our current building sits in the same spot as that original one, and we are still grateful to Larry today.

 

It wasn't too long before we realized we could do better than renting equipment. We realized early on, that our purpose was not just to provide equipment for the Narrows. During a late-night meeting, owner Michele Van Hise (also an ex-elementary and middle school teacher) remarked, "We need to just help everyone as though they are our friend." That simple comment has brought a consciousness to everything we do to this day.

 

Our goal is to help you have the best outdoor adventure possible. Whatever you are aiming for - doing something you love, experiencing something new, learning technical skills, or making memories with friends and family - we know outdoor experiences add value to your life. And it's not just the activities that matter, it's the moments that count. Our products, services and staff are here to benefit you so that you can have the Zion adventure you are hoping for. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you.