Hiking the Narrows- Zion National Park

The Narrows is one of the most enjoyable hikes in Zion National Park and in the world. You are not only hiking in the middle of a Narrow canyon with thousands of feet tall walls, but you are also hiking in the Virgin River through deep water that goes up above waist level in some sections.

In this article, I will share with you a complete guide to prepare for your hike and make the most out of it.

Do I need a permit to hike the Narrows?

The bottom-up hike from the temple of Sinawava DOES NOT REQUIRE A PERMIT. This hike is more for people who are looking for either a day hike or a few hours hike in the canyon. However, If you are interested in camping inside or doing the 16-mile top-down hike then you do need a permit. The bottom line is:

Bottom Up Hike From the Temple of Sinawava (no permit required)

Top Down Hike from Chamberlain’s Ranch (permit required)

When should I hike the Narrows?

Most people hike the Narrows during spring and summer because the water is warmer and the water level is lower. This is, However, the busiest season, so expect a lot of people in the canyon. I, personally, hiked the Narrows in January during the government shutdown. As crazy as it sounds but it was such an amazing experience. So it really is up to you as long as you understand what you are getting yourself into.

How long is the hike?

For the Bottom-up hike, you start from Temple of Sinawa and can go as far as Big Springs (10 miles round trip). You basically return the same way you came, so it really is up to you to return whenever you want. A lot of tourists and first-timers choose to hike all the way up to Wall Street Ends and return back to the trailhead.

What gear do I need?

It depends on the season and time of the year. Since I hiked in winter time, the water was very cold that I needed a full gear package that included:

• Dry bibs (waders)
• Adidas Hydro Lace Canyoneering Boot
• 5mm Neoprene Socks
• Wooden Hiking Stick
• Waterproof backpack

During the summer, dry gear is not needed; however proper footwear is recommended for comfort and safety.

Where do I get my gear?

You don’t have to buy the gear listed above unless you want to make a long term commitment to canyoneering.

There are two companies you can rent your gear from:

• Zion Adventure Company
• Zion Outfitter

They both are located near the Zion National Park visitor center and provide gear rental year round. You can reserve your gear online, or you can walk in to pick your gear either the night prior to your hike if you are thinking about starting very early or the day of your hike. Zion outfitter opens at 8:00 am while Zion Adventure Company opens at 09:00 am.

You also need to account for the time you need to return your outfit. I rented my gear from Zion outfitter and they asked to drop it back at 06:00 pm, so keep this in mind!

From my experience, the suit that I rented worked very well and kept my body 100% dry. My feet were wet but NOT COLD AT ALL. Again, this was the beginning of January but I was very pleased and amazed by how practical is the dry suit.

What to pack?

You want to make sure that you have enough water, snacks (protein bars, beef jerky..) whatever works for you! You also need to pack a few zip-lock bags to keep your phone or any other electronics protected.

Is it safe to hike the Narrows?

All adventures come with a certain level of risk, it comes down to making smart choices and understanding the risks.

What about Flash floods?

Flash floods are very common in Zion National Park. Some hikers have been injured or even killed while hiking the Narrows due to flash floods. Before you start your hike, here are a few things you MUST DO:

• Check the weather forecast
• Keep an eye on alerts posted to the Zion National Park Service websitehttps://www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm
• Speak to a ranger prior to your hike
• Stop by the ZNP visitor center and inquire about the weather condition

Stay safe, keep an eye out and in the event a flood occur, the number one rule is to climb to high ground and stay there.

Other than that, enjoy your hike and let me know in the comment section below if you have any other questions.