Can you hike the Narrows in the winter?

Can you hike the Narrows in the winter? With the right gear, hiking the Narrows in winter is the best time because you can enjoy it without the crowds. Don't get too worried about the details—just rent some gear and go for it!

What is the best month to do 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 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.

What is the difficulty of hiking the Narrows in Zion?

The Narrows hike is easy-to-moderate. It is easy because there are no steep inclines or declines, and since it is an out-and-back hike, it can be as long or as short as you want it to be.

Is it too cold to hike the Narrows in November?

WINTER: NOVEMBER 1 - MARCH 15 Winter is a great time to visit the Zion Narrows, though specialized equipment is required to stay warm.

How deep is the water in the Narrows?

Even at 50 cfs, the water can be up to 5 feet deep in some places, so time your hike for days when the water level is below 50 cfs if you can. Also, check at the visitor center about the possibility of flash-flooding. If there's even a remote chance of flash-flooding, DO NOT HIKE THE NARROWS.

How to do the Narrows in winter?

Can a beginner hike the Narrows?

In general, most adults with a moderate fitness level will be fine and enjoy this activity. So if you're a beginner wanting to do the Zion Narrows day hike, don't worry! It can seem intimidating, but so long as you don't have difficulties getting around on a typical hike, you will be fine.

Do you need a wetsuit to hike the Narrows?

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.

Can you hike the Narrows barefoot?

near the start of the hike. It was hard for us to imagine doing that hike without a stick for balance and support when going through some of the trickier spot. If you rent shoes, they will also rent you a stick. Don't do this hike barefoot, in flip flops, in open toe sandals or in cheap water shoes.

Can you visit the Narrows in December?

The Narrows is the narrowest section of Zion Canyon in Zion National Park, Utah, United States. Situated on the North Fork of the Virgin River and upstream of the main canyon, The Narrows is one of the premier hikes in the park and on the Colorado Plateau.

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.

What to wear when hiking the Narrows in winter?

In preparation for this hike, many people decide to rent specialized gear like canyoneering shoes, neoprene socks, walking sticks, waterproof pants, and even full zip-up dry suits. While this gear can be absolutely essential during winter and early spring, it can be a little overkill during the warmer summer months.