Can you hike the Narrows after it rains?


Can you hike the Narrows after it rains? A flash flood can rush down a canyon in a wall of water 12 feet high or more. Know the weather and flash flood potential ratings before starting your trip. If bad weather threatens, do not enter a narrow canyon.


Can beginners hike the Narrows?

Can a Beginner do the Zion Narrows Day Hike? Yes, beginner hikers can absolutely do the Zion Narrows day hike! Even if you don't have much hiking experience, you will be perfectly fine hiking the Narrows.


Should I hike the Narrows bottom up or top down?

The Bottom-Up Route is Perfect if: You have no desire to hike 16 miles. You are hiking with kids. You want to experience the Narrows but only want to hike a few miles. It's late in the year, the water is cold, and there is limited daylight, so you do not have enough time to hike from the top-down.


Do you need a waterproof backpack for the Narrows?

Waterproof protection is especially important if you plan to carry a camera on your hike. Though it is not expected that your backpack will be submerged during your hike it can happen! Having the proper protection for your equipment will provide peace of mind during your experience in the Narrows!


Can you wear water shoes in the Narrows?

For a trek deep into the narrows or a through hike I'd say rent the water hiking shoes from one of the outfitters. We choose the boot/sock/walking stick option and it turned out to be a great choice for us. The water came up to mid-thigh and was very muddy so you couldn't see where you were walking.


What time is best to do the Narrows?

Best time of day to hike the Narrows If you are only looking to do a small portion of the Narrows, then we recommend visiting in the late afternoon when it has warmed up a bit. The big rush tends to be in the morning as the people who want to hike the furthest start early.


Are there bears in Zion National Park?

Seeing an American Black Bear in Zion National Park is rare but not unheard of. Since bear sightings are so rare each one, even a possible siting, should be reported to park officials. It is important to know the procedure for bear encounters on the off chance that you may see one.


What is the busiest day in Zion?

As with most national parks, Zion's busiest season is when the kids are off school and most people take their vacations. That means weekends much of the year and the most crowded time between Memorial Day and Labor Day.


What is the best month to hike the Narrows?

The Narrows is a popular hike through the knee-deep Virgin River. Due to cold water temperature and high water levels, the trail is closed in winter and spring. The best time to hike The Narrows is from late May to October, but watch out for summer thunderstorms that can cause deathly flash floods.


Can you still hike in Zion when it rains?

Our first stop is the Canyon Overlook hike a one mile round trip trail that is safe in the rain and overlooks Pine Creek canyon along the way. This is a great introduction hike into Zion on any day, but is especially beautiful as rainclouds cling to the red canyon walls as you get your first glimpse into Zion Canyon!


What is the least crowded hike in Zion?

Best Hikes to Avoid The Crowds in Zion National Park
  • The Watchman Trail (kid-friendly) - panoramic views you don't have to share.
  • Pa'Rus Trail (kid & dog-friendly) - for sunset lovers & landscape photographers.
  • Canyon Overlook Trail (kid-friendly) - Angels Landing views without the congestion and chains.


How long should you wait to hike after rain?

Wait a day or two before hitting the trails. Especially on popular routes, hikers stomping their boots into muddy trails can do some real damage. Some park systems, like those in the Puente Hills, are even closed for 48 hours following a rainstorm.


When should you not hike the Narrows?

Most people hike The Narrows in the summer and early fall when the water tends to be at its warmest and the water level drops. However, life-threatening flash floods are possible at any time and are common during the monsoon season.


How many hours is the Narrows hike?

The Narrows stretches for 16 miles but that's if you hike top-down. Most people hike between 2-6 hours on the Narrows hike when starting at the bottom (~6 miles round trip). Since the Narrows hike is an in-and-out trail, whatever mileage and time you put in hiking in, you have to do out.


How late can you hike the Narrows?

The hiking season for the Zion Narrows is typically summer and autumn, but the start of the season is controlled by the spring runoff and water levels. The Zion Narrows is typically closed to hiking between mid-March and late May, depending on how much snow fell on the high country in winter.


Do the Narrows close when it rains?

The Narrows closes when the Virgin River flow rate is over 150 cubic feet per second (CFS) and when the National Weather Service issues a Flash Flood Warning.