The Narrows in Utah’s Zion National Park offers one of the most unforgettable hiking experiences in the world.
Carving its way through sandstone cliffs, the Virgin River has created a natural masterpiece accessible only on foot.
This guide is designed to be comprehensive, from preparing for your journey to guiding you through the beauty of the Narrows.
Table of Contents
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Hiking Options for the Narrows
The Narrows presents two main routes: Bottom-Up versus Top-Down. Each offers a unique perspective of the canyon’s beauty.
- Bottom-up hikes are accessible for most and require no permit, perfect for those seeking a taste of the Narrows without committing to the entire length.
- Top-down hikes, whether as a challenging day hike or a two-day backpacking trip, offer the full experience of the canyon but require a permit.
Zion Narrows Bottom-Up Hike (Permit not required)
The Bottom-Up hike is the most popular option for those seeking to experience the Narrows without committing to the full length of the Top-Down route.
This approach allows hikers of various skill levels to experience the beauty of the Narrows at their own pace.
Starting Point and Hike Lengths
Starting Point: The Bottom-Up hike begins at the Temple of Sinawava, accessible via the Zion Canyon Shuttle. From the shuttle stop, the 1-mile Riverside Walk leads to the entrance of the Narrows, where the river becomes your trail.
Hike Length: The Bottom-Up hike is technically out-and-back, meaning you can turn around at any point.
A popular turnaround spot in Big Spring, which is about 5 miles from the start, makes the total round trip about 10 miles.
However, many choose to turn around earlier at landmarks such as Orderville Canyon, about 2.5 miles in, depending on time, ability, and water conditions.
Hiking Route Breakdown (Bottom-Up)
- Start with Riverside Walk
- Distance: First mile.
- Description: A paved trail that leads hikers to the water’s edge, where the Narrows hike truly begins.
- Enter the River
- Description: Upon completing the Riverside Walk, hikers continue their journey by stepping into the Virgin River. The canyon initially offers a wider expanse, with numerous sandy beaches and patches of high ground ideal for rest or looking at the surroundings.
- Reach the River Fork
- Distance from Trailhead: Approximately 2.5 miles.
- Description: Encounter a significant fork in the river. Orderville Canyon merges from the right.
- Direction: Keep left to proceed along the main course of the Narrows.
- Experience the Narrowing Canyon
- Description: After the fork, the canyon walls draw closer together, marking the beginning of the most iconic section of the hike. This area is renowned for its striking, narrow passageways framed by towering rock faces.
- Goal for Many Hikers
- Description: Most hikers aim to reach this narrower section of the canyon. The journey continues until hikers decide to turn back based on their comfort and energy levels.
- Turnaround Point: Big Spring
- Description: The farthest point for bottom-up hikers without a permit. Identified by a wide, 20-foot waterfall on the left side of the canyon, signaling the time to return.
What to Expect on the Bottom-Up Narrows Hike
Terrain: The hike takes you through the Virgin River, with over half of your time spent wading or walking in the water.
The riverbed is rocky, and water levels can vary, from ankle to waist deep, occasionally deeper in certain sections depending on seasonal rainfall and snowmelt.
Difficulty: The hike is considered moderate due to the uneven and slippery terrain, water currents, and the need to navigate through rocks and boulders.
Trekking poles or a walking stick are highly recommended for balance and support.
Scenery: The towering canyon walls close in around you, displaying arrays of colors, textures, and formations.
Natural springs, hanging gardens, and the contrast of the blue water against the desert sandstone are unmatched.
The Bottom-Up hike in the Zion Narrows is not just a hike; it’s an experience into one of nature’s most beautiful scenery.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a family looking for an unforgettable adventure, the Zion Narrows hike offers something for everyone.
The key is preparation and ensuring you are prepared for this water hike.
There are private tour options like the one below that are very highly rated.
Zion Narrows Top-Down Hike (Permit required)
The Top-Down hike through the Narrows is an adventure of a lifetime. Prepare for a 16-mile journey that intertwines the beauty of the Virgin River with the rugged challenge of canyon hiking.
Starting and Ending Point
Your hike will begin at Chamberlain’s Ranch and finish at the Temple of Sinawava.
You must arrange your own transportation to the Chamberlain’s Ranch trailhead.
This is a private ranch outside of Zion. Since the hike starts and ends at two different locations, you will want to hire a shuttle service to drop you off.
Several companies offer this service. I would use either Red Rock Shuttle or Zion Adventures.
It will take about an hour and a half to drive from Springdale to Chamberlains Ranch.
I would park your car at the Visitor Center and grab the shuttle from there.
When you finish hiking, you can take the Zion Shuttle from the Temple of Sinawava to the Visitor Center.
Check the shuttle schedule, as depending on the time of year, the last shuttle time changes, and you want to make sure you make it back to catch.
Zion Narrows Permit Process for Top-Down Hike
All Top-Down hikers must secure a permit through Zion National Park’s lottery system.
Here are the links for trying to secure a permit and timelines and dates to make your reservations for the three types of lotteries.
Zion Narrows Top-Down In 1-Day Advanced Reservations Lottery
Top-Down Zion Narrows in 1-day Daily Reservations Lottery
Overnight Backpacking Zion Narrows Reservations Lottery
Hiking Route Breakdown (Top-Down)
- Start at Chamberlain’s Ranch
- Distance: First 3 miles.
- Description: Begin hiking west along a dirt road adjacent to the stream. This section is easy, offering a gentle introduction to the journey.
- Enter the Shallow Canyon
- Description: A shallow canyon starts to form, necessitating hiking in the river.
- Forest and Shallow Narrows
- Distance: Next 6 miles.
- Description: Experience alternating sections of forested areas and brief, shallow narrows.
- Confluence with Deep Creek
- Distance at Mile 9.
- Description: Encounter the rivers’ confluence with Deep Creek, marking a significant increase in water flow and the start of the deepest, most iconic section of the Narrows.
- Backpacking Campsites
- Distance: Next 3 miles after Deep Creek.
- Description: Find designated campsites for backpacking groups before reaching Big Spring.
- Big Spring Landmark
- Description: Recognize a wide, 20-foot waterfall to the right, indicating the proximity to Big Spring.
- Deep Wading Sections
- Description: Several sections past Big Spring may require deep wading, potentially chest-deep or deeper.
- Junction with Orderville Canyon
- Distance: 2.5 miles past Big Spring.
- Description: Reach the junction with Orderville Canyon, where the canyon starts to widen.
- Encounter with Bottom-Up Hikers
- Distance: Last 1.5 miles before Riverside Walk.
- Description: Expect crowds from bottom-up hikers in this segment leading up to the paved Riverside Walk.
- Riverside Walk to Finish
- Distance: Final mile.
- Description: Follow the Riverside Walk trail for the last mile to the trailhead at the Temple of Sinawava, where the Zion Shuttle can take you back to the visitor center.
Fitness Fundamentals: Preparing for the Narrows
Your physical readiness determines the enjoyment and safety of your hike.
This trek demands stamina, balance, and the ability to wade or swim through river sections. If you are hiking in one day, you need to be fit, fast, and prepared to walk through water, uneven ground, and slippery rocks.
Best Time to Hike the Narrows
Late Spring to Early Fall is a great time to hike the Narrows avoiding the cold water temperatures and when the water level drops.
Late Fall to Early Spring means colder water temperatures and higher water levels. The Narrows may be closed during the Spring when snowmelt raises the river over 150 CFS and permits are not issued during this time.
Summer and Early Fall are the best times to hike the Narrows when temperatures are warm (cooler in the Narrows), days are long, water levels are lower, and water temperatures are warmer. This is also the busiest time of year and the hardest time to get permits.
Remember, flash floods are possible at any time and are common during the monsoon season.
Make sure to read the National Park Service Flash Flood Section for Zion. The river will be closed to hiking during and immediately following any flash flood warnings.
Safety First
Understanding River Flow and Flash Flood Risks
Monitoring river flow rates and the flash flood forecast is crucial as these rates significantly impact the safety and difficulty of your hike.
The flow rate, measured in cubic feet per second (CFS), dictates whether the Narrows are open to the public, but also hiking conditions within the canyon.
Why Flow Rate Matters: High flow rates can make hiking the Narrows dangerous.
Fast currents, deeper water, and increased debris and sediment movement can increase the risk of injury.
Again, if the flow rate exceeds 150 CFS, the Narrows will be closed to hikers.
Understanding the Numbers:
- Below 70 CFS: Conditions are generally considered easier, with lower water levels making for more manageable hiking.
- 70-150 CFS: Moderate conditions. Expect deeper water in places and a stronger current. Hiking is more physically demanding.
- Above 150 CFS: The Narrows are closed to hiking due to high water levels and strong currents, which present safety hazards.
To get current flow rate conditions, visit the USGS website.
Flash Floods: When the National Park Service issues a flash flood warning for Zion, the Narrows will close. You can check alerts and information on flash floods on the National Park Website.
Cyanobacteria and Water Sources
Zion National Park has issued warnings about cyanobacteria blooms in the Virgin River, which flows through the Narrows.
Cyanobacteria can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals when ingested.
It’s crucial to avoid consuming water directly from the river, even if using a filtration device, as there in no known filtration methods that are effective at reducing toxin levels safe for drinking.
Carry enough water from a safe source for your hike.
Tips for a Successful Narrows Hike
- Waterproof Gear: Wear quick-drying clothes and sturdy hiking boots. Renting canyoneering boots, neoprene socks, and a hiking stick/poles from outfitters in Springdale is a popular option. I highly recommend it, as my hiking boots were never the same after being immersed in the water for so long. Use Zion Outfitters, as they have a gear package for each season that is reasonably priced.
- Check Conditions: Always check the weather and flash flood risk before heading out. Avoid hiking if there’s a significant risk of flash floods.
- Pack Essentials: Bring a waterproof bag for essentials like food, water, a first aid kit, and dry clothing.
- Start Early: Begin your hike early in the day to avoid crowds and to ensure ample time to enjoy the hike.
- Extra Clothes: Leave a set of dry clothes and shoes in your car to change after the hike.
- Leave no Trace: Pack out all trash, including food wrappers and fruit peels, and use the restrooms at the trailhead, as there are no facilities once in the Narrows.
Gear Recommendations
Hiking in the Virgin River is uneven and slippery, as the NPS says it is like walking on slippery bowling balls.
Year-Round: Always have sturdy hiking boots or canyoneering shoes, neoprene socks, and a hiking stick/poles. Bring extra warm clothing stored in a dry waterproof bag, and opt for wool or synthetic fibers.
You can rent different seasonal packages from Zion Outfitters or other outfitters in Springdale including a waterproof backpack, which is the ideal option.
May-September (Warm Weather): Average water temperatures range from 56° to 68° Fahrenheit (13° to 20° Celsius), which can feel cool.
Just need the above gear or rent the “warm weather package” from Zion Outfitters, which includes canyoneering shoes, neoprene socks, and a walking stick.
September – December – Add a pair of dry pants to the above and 5mm neoprene socks or rent the “Dry Pants Package” from Zion Outfitters, which includes dry pants, canyoneering boots, 5mm neoprene socks, and a wooden hiking stick.
October – May – Add a pair of dry bibs depending on conditions, dry pants may not be enough.
Again, you can rent a “dry bib package” from Zion Outfitters, it includes bibs, boots, socks, and a hiking stick.
What to Wear Hiking The Narrows
Wear layers you can remove as it warms up.
The canyon is colder because of the high walls, so the sun does not appear until midday. The water is also cold, so be prepared.
Here are some suggestions depending on the season and links to some of my favorite items, but I would recommend renting the gear above, especially in the colder seasons.
- Tops Women: Quick-Dry – Tank, Short Sleeve T-Shirt, Long Sleeve T-Shirt
- Tops Men: Quick-Dry – Tank, Short Sleeve T-Shirt, Long Sleeve T-Shirt
- Fleece Women
- Fleece Men
- Packable Jacket Women
- Packable Jacket Men
- Shorts Women: Quick Dry Short
- Shorts Men: Quick Dry Short
- Socks: Neoprene
- Hat:
- Sun Hat
- Beanie
Other recommended items
- Sunscreen and Lip balm
- Water Bottle or Hydration Pack
- Snacks
- First Aid Kit
- Gloves
- Flip Flops to keep in your backpack if it is during the warm season for the paved walk back to the shuttle so you can remove socks and boots! You will thank me for this tip!
FAQ’s
Q1: What is the best time of year to hike the Zion Narrows?
- The ideal time for hiking the Zion Narrows is late spring through fall, specifically from May to September, when the water temperatures are more comfortable, and the outside temperatures are warmer. Always check current conditions before your trip.
Q2: Do I need a permit to hike the Zion Narrows?
- A permit is not required for the Bottom-Up hike starting from the Temple of Sinawava. However, if you plan to hike the Narrows from the Top-Down, either as a day hike or an overnight trip, you will need to obtain a permit from Zion National Park.
Q3: Can I drink the water in the Zion Narrows?
- Due to the presence of cyanobacteria and other potential contaminants, do not drink the water from the Virgin River. Carry sufficient water or use a reliable water filtration system that addresses toxins.
Q4: How difficult is the hike through the Zion Narrows?
- The hike can range from moderate to challenging, depending on water levels and the distance you plan to cover. Walking in water and navigating over slippery rocks requires good physical condition and balance.
Q5: Are there guided tours available for the Zion Narrows?
- Yes, several outfitters in the area offer guided tours of the Zion Narrows. These tours can provide additional insights into the canyon’s geography and history, as well as offer an added layer of safety for inexperienced hikers.
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