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.



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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.

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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.

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Plan to begin the hike first thing in the morning If it's your first time hiking the Narrows, I recommend that you plan to start first thing in the morning. Try to arrive at Zion in time to take one of the first few shuttles all the way up to Temple of Sinawava, the last stop on the shuttle route.

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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.

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Angels Landing is first on the list of the most difficult hikes in Zion. It is one of the most popular hikes in Zion as it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. However, it is also the most dangerous hike in Zion and one of the most dangerous hikes in the U.S.

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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.

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For a trek deep into the narrows or a through hike I'd say rent the water hiking shoes from one of the outfitters. We choose the boot/sock/walking stick option and it turned out to be a great choice for us. The water came up to mid-thigh and was very muddy so you couldn't see where you were walking.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Outfitter stores, such as Zion Outfitter, in the gateway town of Springdale, rent shoes, socks, and walking sticks. In the winter, they rent waders. We've seen plenty of people without the rented gear doing the hike, so it's not necessary. However, I think it is super helpful and I definitely recommend it.

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Nestled deep into Zion National Park, this trail winds through the canyons along the Virgin River. I promise you, you will be humbled and amazed at the beauty of this place. I'm here to tell you that there's no need to wait until your kids are older, you can do this hike WITH them!

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If you have a spare camera, you might consider bringing it along instead of your main one. Although I brought my main camera, there were a few times that I would have preferred a backup instead. In terms of equipment, the most important gear to bring is a wide-angle lens.

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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.

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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.

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