Do I need a reservation to go to Narrows?
Do I need a reservation to go to Narrows? If you are planning to hike the Narrows from the bottom up—starting at Temple of Sinewava, you do not need to obtain a permit. However, if you are hiking from the top down, either as a day hike or an overnight trip, you will need a permit. For reservations, click here.
Can you hike the Narrows in Zion without a guide?
You do not need a guide to hike the Narrows, but you do need to do your research and plan ahead.
How long is the Narrows hike?
The entire hike is 16 miles long. From the top-down, the hike begins at Chamberlain's Ranch and the Narrows ends 15 miles later at the top end of the Riverside Walk. One more mile of walking on the Riverside Walk gets you to the finish line of the hike, the Temple of Sinawava.
How long does it take to get through the Narrows?
There are also parts of The Narrows where it's deep enough to swim, but we won't be going that far on this trip. The Narrows is 16 miles long and can take up to 12 hours. However, most people do not go that far.
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.
Are there bathrooms at the Narrows?
The Narrows is much cooler than Zion Canyon. Pack gear in waterproof bags. Use the restroom at the Riverside Trailhead before hiking. There are no toilets in the Narrows.
Should I hike the Narrows bottom up or top-down?
The Bottom-Up Route is Perfect if: 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. You are a beginner hiker.
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.
Can you hike the Narrows in a day?
3 Ways to Hike The Narrows Top-Down Zion Narrows Day Hike (One Day) - Hike the entirety of the canyon (17 miles) in one day from Chamberlain's Ranch. Shuttle and permit required. Top-Down Zion Narrows Backpacking Trip (Overnight) - A more leisurely way to hike, enjoy, photograph, and explore.
Do you need a wet suit for 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 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.
Are there bathrooms on the Narrows hike?
At the Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop, there are water fill stations and bathrooms. Make sure to use the restrooms here. If you do need to go pee in The Narrows it is better to do it in the water than on the shore. If you need to go #2 while in The Narrows you MUST pack it out.
What time of day to hike the Narrows?
Even without the Monsoon, the Narrows should be hiked with a keen eye on the sky to the north. Thunderstorms occur largely in the late afternoon, so get up early and put those miles in before mid-afternoon, so you will be in a safe place during those critical hours 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
How do you hike the Narrows without a permit?
If you are planning to hike the Narrows from the bottom up—starting at Temple of Sinewava, you do not need to obtain a permit. However, if you are hiking from the top down, either as a day hike or an overnight trip, you will need a permit.
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.
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 early should I get to the Narrows?
When Is the Best Time to Hike the Narrows? Start early in the morning to watch as the canyon walls light up with the sunrise. We started our hike around 9 AM and the river was mostly shaded thanks to the height of the canyon walls.
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.