Through The Narrows: A River Hike Between Zion's Thousand-Foot Walls
Waist-deep hiking, towering sandstone, and a river that writes its own map—how to experience Zion’s most elemental canyon
By the time you step off the Riverside Walk and into the Virgin River, the canyon has already reoriented your sense of scale. Water threads along your calves, then your thighs; light squeezes in from a sky you can only see as a thin blue ribbon; walls of Navajo sandstone rise on either side—cream, coral, rust—stacked like pages of a story read vertical. This is The Narrows: Zion National Park’s most elemental hike, a river-walk that feels less like a trail and more like a negotiation with the landscape itself.
Trail Wisdom
Rent waders if water’s cold
Spring and fall often require neoprene socks and bibs—rent at Zion Outfitter in Springdale if your tour doesn't include gear.
Watch the weather
Flash floods are the biggest hazard; check NPS alerts and avoid the canyon if storms are forecast upstream.
Use a sturdy trekking pole
A pole gives extra stability on slick riverbed rock and in deeper current—bring one or borrow from guides.
Start early
Begin at first light to avoid crowds, afternoon heat, and to give yourself time to turn back comfortably.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Orderville Canyon junction—less crowded stretch with dramatic narrows
- •Hanging gardens above side alcoves—look for seasonal waterfalls and ferns
Wildlife
Desert bighorn sheep, Mule deer and canyon-dwelling songbirds
Conservation Note
Heavy foot traffic and wading can disturb fragile canyon ecosystems; practice Leave No Trace, avoid trampling riparian plants, and follow NPS regulations for group size and waste.
The Virgin River corridor has long been a travel route for Southern Paiute people; later Mormon settlers used spring-fed alcoves for livestock and farming in peripheral valleys.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: wildflowers in the canyon mouth, cooler temps for long hikes, shorter crowds than summer
Challenges: higher runoff and cold water, unpredictable late storms, possible trail closures
Snowmelt can swell the Virgin River—expect cold water and variable access; rent thermal gear and check river gauges.
summer
Best for: warm water wading, long daylight hours, lush hanging gardens
Challenges: crowds and hot trailheads, monsoon thunderstorms and flash floods, limited shade in canyon cuts
Warm air makes wading comfortable but watch afternoon monsoons and arrive early to avoid the busiest hours.
fall
Best for: stable flows and mild weather, fewer visitors, clearer skies for photography
Challenges: cooler water temps late in season, shortening daylight, occasional wind events
Fall is ideal for balance—milder river conditions, crisp light, and thinner crowds; bring layering for chilly mornings.
winter
Best for: dramatic contrasts and deserted trails, low visitor numbers, possible ice-coated walls for stark landscapes
Challenges: very cold water and hypothermia risk, some services closed, need for insulated waders
Winter trips require insulated gear and experience; guided options may include full-wader packages—plan around limited daylight.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Canyon boots with neoprene socksEssential
Provide traction on slick rocks and some thermal protection in cold water.
Trekking pole or twoEssential
Stabilizes you on uneven, submerged terrain and helps probe depth and footing.
Dry bag (20–30L)Essential
Keeps layers, food, and electronics dry during prolonged river travel.
Insulated waders or bibs
Recommended in colder months; many guides include these, but rent ahead if self-guiding.
Common Questions
Do I need a permit to hike The Narrows?
Bottom-up day hikes from the Temple of Sinawava require no permit; the 16-mile top-down route requires an NPS permit and shuttle logistics.
Can I hike The Narrows without a guide?
Yes—many day hikers travel bottom-up independently—but guided tours are recommended for first-timers or when water conditions are uncertain.
What gear do I need and can I rent it locally?
Canyon boots, neoprene socks, and sometimes waders are recommended; Zion Outfitter in Springdale rents packages and some tour operators include gear.
When is The Narrows closed?
The Narrows closes during high-water events and flash-flood warnings—always check the National Park Service alerts before heading in.
How deep does the river get?
Depth varies by season and reach—expect ankle-to-waist depth commonly, with deeper sections possible in narrow slots or during runoff.
Is The Narrows safe for kids?
Families can do short stretches in shallow sections, but river hazards, cold water, and slippery footing make it unsuitable for very young children or inexperienced swimmers.
What to Pack
Canyon boots or sturdy water shoes, trekking pole for balance, dry bag for electronics and snacks, layered moisture-wicking clothing for changing temps
Did You Know
The Narrows’ slot canyon was carved by the Virgin River through Navajo Sandstone over millions of years; some canyon walls reach heights of about 1,000 feet.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Rent waders in Springdale if you don’t own insulated gear; 2) Start at dawn to avoid crowds and afternoon storms; 3) Check NPS river-status and flash-flood warnings before you go; 4) If doing the top-down, secure a permit and arrange a shuttle in advance.
Local Flavor
Springdale offers Southwestern cafés, local art galleries, and outfitters; try prickly pear–inspired dishes and regional coffee before or after your hike, and visit interpretive exhibits at the Zion National Park Visitor Center for context on Paiute history and pioneer routes.
Logistics Snapshot
Access via Springdale; bottom-up day hikes start at Temple of Sinawava; top-down requires permit and shuttle; rent gear at Zion Outfitter; check NPS conditions for closures.
Sustainability Note
Stick to durable surfaces, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing riparian plants, and consider guided trips that limit group size to reduce cumulative impact.