Should I hike the Narrows bottom-up or top-down?

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.

How strenuous is the Narrows hike?

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.

Do you need pants for the Narrows?

Dry pants or dry suit — the river can be very cold in the fall, winter, and spring, so you'll need extra gear if you plan on hiking during those seasons. If the water is cold, make sure you choose an outfitter that provides thicker neoprene socks and high-quality dry pants that won't leak through.

Can older people hike the Narrows?

While the Narrows is doable as a senior, the Riverside Walk can be done by basically anyone. This casual trail can take you up to the river banks where people begin their watery march into the slot canyons.

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.

Can a 6 year old hike the Narrows?

The Narrows, although a very challenging hike, is absolutely possible with kids. We just did it with our 7, 5, and 2 year old children.

Can you do the Narrows in one day?

Sixteen mile trips through the Virgin River Narrows, from Chamberlain's Ranch to the Temple of Sinawava, can be done as a very long single-day hiking trip, or as a single overnight backpacking trip. Multi-night backpacking trips through the Virgin River Narrows are not permitted.

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 Zion Narrows top down?

Most people hike it from the bottom-up, an out and back journey that takes you through some of the most scenic sections of the canyon. Or, you can hike the entire length of the Narrows along the top-down route, an epic experience that can be done as a massive one day hike or as a two day backpacking trip.

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.

How do you survive a flash flood in the Narrows?

Even climbing a few feet may save your life. Remain on high ground until conditions improve. Water levels usually drop within 24 hours. Despite the forecast, flooding is possible at any time, and floods have occurred on days they were not expected.

Where do you pee when hiking the Narrows?

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.

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 do Angels Landing and Narrows in same day?

Can you do Angels Landing and the Narrows in one day? Yes, it's possible. But it's vary rare that people do this.

What is the least crowded hike in Zion?

How long does it take to hike the Narrows bottom up?