Zion National Park – Zion Narrows

The Zion Narrows begin at the end so to speak.  You’ll ride the park shuttle all the way to the last stop, The Temple of Sinawava.  You’ll first find yourself on a relatively wide and well maintained trail that winds along the river bank, simply called Riverside Walk.  Riverside Walk comes to an end a mile down the trail at the river where the Narrows begins.  From this point forward you will be walking in the river.  There are only a few places where there is dry land to walk on.

There isn’t much I can really tell you about this hike other than I loved it.  I found it to be incredibly beautiful and I can’t wait to get back out for another trip to hike this trail again.  It was a bit treacherous in places depending on how fast the water was moving but nothing unmanageable.  I do have to point out that the water level was relatively low when we were there.  The water came up to my waist at the deepest point and that only happened in one place.  The majority of the hike the water was at my calves or ankles.  One couple we met along the way told us they hiked the trail earlier in the year when the water was chest level.  I can’t say I would find that overly enjoyable but the colors and formations in the rock combined with the lush though sparse vegetation create a draw for me like a moth to a flame.

We made sure this time we had ample water and restocked our energy beans and trail mix.  The great part about The Narrows is that you are so deep in the canyon and the rock faces are so steep that the sun rarely reaches the bottom.  It warms to a nearly perfect temperature for hiking.  The water is pretty darn cold and is shocking at first, but the farther you hike the more you’ll welcome the cool water at your feet.

I do want to caution you that The Narrows are not a walk in the park (no pun intended) and can be dangerous.  You should make sure you’re in decent physical condition and I don’t recommend taking your young children simply because of the strength of the current and potential need to swim in places.  Even though you’re walking in water, that doesn’t mean it is safe to drink so make sure you are carrying ample fluids with you.  There are a couple tour companies in town that will outfit you and your party with walking sticks, canyoneering shoes, and a guide to help you navigate if this isn’t an activity you are otherwise prepared for.

In short this is my number one recommendation if you do nothing else in the park but make sure you are physically capable before venturing to the water’s edge.  Remember, your safety is your responsibility.