Guide to Zion Narrows
An Interesting Season for the Narrows:
After nearly 4 months of closure due to high water from snowmelt, the Narrows is now fully open for hiking, both
Hiking in the Narrow...Click to Enlarge
the full Narrows from the top and the dayhike up from the bottom. This also opens up some of our favorite canyon routes, including Mystery Canyon, Imlay Canyon and Orderville Canyon. Recently, we took a hike up from the Temple of Sinawava.
Current conditions to hike the Narrows are great. The deepest section of water we needed to cross was just downstream of Mystery Falls, about fifteen minutes into the water portion of the hike. There is a short (30 yards) section of chest deep water there, which feels great! Flooding over the winter and spring has washed out a sandbar that previously made that section a little shorter. However, with temperatures hovering around the 100 degree mark in Zion, an afternoon hike in the Narrows felt great. With the water being around 50 degrees, we had on quick drying shorts, a thin long sleeve top, neoprene socks and 5.10 Savant shoes keep us comfortable and feet warm.
Hiking the narrows is a classic Zion experience and there is an appropriate hike for all ages and abilities. For the top down, expect 16 miles of river hiking and planning some extra logistics including obtaining a permit, possibly a camping site (you can hike it in one long day or take two days and camp), a shuttle or ride to Chamberlain’s Ranch (about 2 hours of driving from Springdale). For those with less time or who would like to experience the Narrows without so much commitment, the hike upstream from the Temple of Sinawava is fantastic. After the paved mile-long Riverside Walk, you’ll hop into the river and head upstream. We always suggest hikers try to make it into Wall Street, a section of canyons with wall to wall water which is about 3 miles from the trailhead. Take food, water, a drybag, and good hiking shoes. A walking stick is also helpful.
As a note of caution in the summertime: while the Narrows is an excellent hike to cool off, take careful note of
Orderville side canyon...Click to Enlarge
afternoon thunderstorms and the chance of rain. Flash floods DO occur in the Narrows. If caught in a flash flood, find higher ground and hang out until the waters recede. We recommend getting an early start on the Narrows hike (hopping on the shuttle before 9am), both to avoid thunderstorms and also, the hike is much less crowded in the morning times.
Closed toed shoes work best for hiking in the Narrows, especially if planning to hike more than 3 miles. Along with the guided trips we offer, Zion Mountain School is able to rent hikers gear for the Narrows, if you need, including mesh hiking shoes, neoprene socks, a dry bag and hiking pole. This gear is easy to use, and can increase your enjoyment of the hike. Contact Us if you have questions about your visit to Zion.
