Experience Hiking The Narrows in Zion Nat'l Park
The Narrows is a unique and unforgettable hiking experience, where the river is the trail.
In Zion National Park there’s no shortage of jaw-dropping sights and unforgettable experiences. The sun gleaming on the red sandstone cliffs. Standing in the middle of the canyon with the wind whipping around me. The thrill, fear, and awe when I realized I was walking in the freshly laid footsteps of a mountain lion.
Although it’s been several years, the Narrows has been one of my most special hiking experiences that, even today, leaves me with a sense of fulfillment. Renowned for its towering canyon walls and the winding Virgin River that carved its way through the heart of the gorge, this remarkable trail is not just a hike but a journey through the river itself. While most of the trails in the park, such as Angels Landing, seek to bring you to a summit with heavenly views, the Narrows offered a perspective of the park that was both intimate and awe-inspiring.
Historically, The Narrows has been a significant route for the indigenous peoples of the area and later for pioneers. Today, it stands as a testament to the natural forces that shaped Zion National Park's unique landscapes.
Hiking the Narrows
Spanning a total of 16 miles one-way, The Narrows can be hiked as a long, strenuous through-hike or as a shorter, more accessible out-and-back hike from the Temple of Sinawava. The most popular section, the Bottom-Up hike, allows hikers to turn around at any point, making it a flexible option for various skill levels. On our trip, we chose the bottom-up version (was logisticallly easier) making our way up from the Temple of Sinawava and turning around at Big Springs and making a jaunt into Orderville Canyon on the way back.
The Narrows can be challenging, but is immensly rewarding and I enjoyed every minute of it. Hiking right through the river, scaling boulders, wading through neck-deep water, climbing up waterfalls into the slot canyons, and being fully immersed in nature’s majesty.
Hiking the Narrows does come with risks. Flash floods are a serious concern, as the canyon can quickly fill with water during rainstorms, even those occurring far upstream. In this video here, you can see just how quickly the river can turn deadly. If you’re planning a trek through The Narrows, stop in at Zion Outfitter first to get a check of the weather and river conditions and gear up to make your hike safer. We opted to get the canyoneering boots, neoprene socks, and some opted for neoprene waders. The boots, designed for traversing the rocky and slippery riverbed saved my ankles many times and the socks allowed me to spend the entire day hiking through the water. Next time, I’ll also opt for the wooden hiking staff they offer over my traditional metal hiking poles which would constantly get caught in the rocks. Not only will having the proper gear make your hike safer, it will allow you to enjoy it more and hike longer.
As a plant lover, the Narrows trail in Zion proved to be a unique botanical experience with a diverse array of plant life that thrives in this distinct environment. As I waded through the Virgin River and navigated the towering canyon walls, I encountered a lush ecosystem that had been formed by intense geology, weather, and water events.
Flora and Fauna
The flora and fauna within The Narrows are as distinctive as the hike itself. One of the most striking features is the hanging gardens, verdant patches clinging to the canyon walls. These gardens are fed by natural springs and seeps, creating microhabitats for various plant species. The delicate and rare Zion Shooting-Star (Dodecatheon pulchellum) is a highlight, showcasing vibrant pink and yellow blooms. Another notable plant is the Golden Columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha), with its distinctive yellow flowers.
The hanging gardens of Zion.
Looking up the canyon walls, you are greeted with the vertical array of bright yellow patches of Golden Columbine.
Scarlet Monkeyflower clinging to the cliffs constantly fed by seepage making its way down through the cracks in the canyn walls.
Along the riverbanks, the Freemont Cottonwood (Populus fremontii) and willows (Salix spp.) are common, providing shade and habitat for wildlife. Maiden Hair Fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris) and Scarlet Monkeyflower (Mimulus cardinalis) thrive in the moist conditions near springs. The diversity of flora in The Narrows is a testament to the adaptability of nature, flourishing in a landscape where water and rock dominate. This botanical richness adds an extra layer of beauty to the already stunning scenery of The Narrows, making it a truly unique hiking experience.
Experience the Hike
Here’s a video from our trip in 2016 which features much of what you’ll encounter along the Bottom-Up version of the hike. The Narrows offers an unforgettable experience, blending adventure with the natural beauty of Zion's towering canyons and vibrant ecosystem. This hike is not just a physical journey but a voyage through the heart of one of America's most spectacular national parks.
Resources and Guides
Hiking Notes
There are several ways to hike The Narrows. Understand which route would be best for you based on time, weather, logistics, and what you’re hoping to get our of the experience.
The trail is rocky, slippery, and requires going through water, sometimes deep water.
Pack your belongings in watertight bags to ensure you don’t damage sensitive gear or your provisions.
Check with the park rangers for latest weather conditions and for any advisories before hiking.
Canyoneering shoes and a wooden hiking staff are highly suggested.
Precautions: Flash flooding
Photos
I am an avid hiker and amateur naturalist. I hike to satisfy that persistent curiosity of what of nature’s wonders lies just beyond the next bend.
