Can you hike the Narrows in October?


Can you hike the Narrows in October? Water flow permitting, the Narrows is open all year round. If you chose to hike the Narrows when it's cold (late fall, winter, or early spring), it's important to have the right gear to prevent hypothermia and other ill effects due to cold.


Can you do the Narrows when its cold?

The Narrows is located in the narrowest part of Zion Canyon and the Virgin River that runs through the canyon is the trail for the hike. You can hike the trail year-round, but due to the chilly water conditions in the winter, you will find less people than you would in the summer.


Can you wear shorts in the Narrows?

Layers: The temperatures in the Zion Narrows can be much cooler than the rest of the park. In fact, we were surprisingly cold during most of the hike. Your bottoms are definitely going to get wet so we recommend wearing shorts or a bathing suit on the bottom.


Is Zion closed in October?

Zion National Park is open all year, but buildings open and close at different times during the year. The National Park Service provides free shuttles in the town of Springdale and Zion Canyon. From early-spring until late-fall, riding a shuttle bus is the only way to visit Zion Canyon.


What is the water like in the Narrows in October?

The water in the Virgin River can get down in the 30s in fall and winter, so you will need a neoprene wetsuit or dry suit to complete this hike. The Narrows uses the river as its trail, so you can expect to be walking, wading, and sometimes even swimming in the river on your way through the canyon.


How cold is the Narrows water in October?

In the early spring and late fall months, neoprene socks, pants or bib overalls, or a wetsuit may be necessary to hike in the river. Average spring and fall water temperatures range from 41° to 53° Fahrenheit (5° to 12° Celsius). Winter: A neoprene wetsuit or dry suit with warm layers may be needed.


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.


Where can I pee on the Narrows hike?

Pee - Whenever possible, pee directly into the flowing water of the river. The smell of your urine, on land, will persist for months. At the very least, carry a ziplock bag to pack out your toilet paper. Water – There is reasonable water for drinking almost every step of The Narrows – literally.


Is October a good month to go to Zion?

October is a wonderful time to spend outdoors enjoying Zion National Park. Daytime temperatures will likely drop into the pleasant zone, and you'll be there for the start of fall foliage season depending on the elevation.


Is October a good month to hike the Narrows?

In my opinion, September and October are the best months to hike the Zion Narrows. If you plan to do this as a day hike from the top-down, doing this before September 30 gives you about 13 to 14 hours to hike the route, allowing for drop-off time at Chamberlain's Ranch and the last shuttle of the day at 9:15 pm.


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.


How strenuous is the Narrows?

The Narrows is a strenuous hike that follows the Virgin River through a narrow slot canyon. After 1 mile (0.6 km) on the easy, paved Riverside Walk, head down a set of stairs and into the river.


Is it better to hike the Narrows in the morning or afternoon?

Best time of day to hike the Narrows The big rush tends to be in the morning as the people who want to hike the furthest start early. By the afternoon, the lower sections are quieter and warmer, which makes for a more enjoyable hike.


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.


What is the least crowded month in Zion?

Best Time to Visit Zion National Park for Smaller Crowds If you have the flexibility, making the trip during the park's off-peak months of October through March means less crowded hiking trails and fewer view-blocking selfie sticks. If you're looking for a really quiet escape, January is the best time to visit.


Do Zion shuttles run in October?

And from March to November, Zion's Scenic Drive is only accessible via shuttle. If you visit the park during off season, when the shuttle isn't running, you may enter in your private vehicle. Biking Zion's Scenic Drive is always allowed.


What water level is needed to hike The Narrows?

Prior to your hike, stop at the visitor center to check the water levels. If the water levels are above 75 cubic feet per-second (cfs), DO NOT HIKE THE NARROWS.