The Narrows closes when the Virgin River flow rate is over 150 cubic feet per second (CFS) and when the National Weather Service issues a Flash Flood Warning.
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Our first stop is the Canyon Overlook hike a one mile round trip trail that is safe in the rain and overlooks Pine Creek canyon along the way. This is a great introduction hike into Zion on any day, but is especially beautiful as rainclouds cling to the red canyon walls as you get your first glimpse into Zion Canyon!
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.
Take a stroll behind the waterfall if you don't mind the extra mist! This walk in Zion Canyon is always enjoyable, but only in the rain do you get to experience it in its full glory!
The hiking season for the Zion Narrows is typically summer and autumn, but the start of the season is controlled by the spring runoff and water levels. The Zion Narrows is typically closed to hiking between mid-March and late May, depending on how much snow fell on the high country in winter.
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.
The Narrows closes when the Virgin River flow rate is over 150 cubic feet per second (CFS) and when the National Weather Service issues a Flash Flood Warning.
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.
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.
Average spring and fall water temperatures range from 41° to 53° Fahrenheit (5° to 12° Celsius). Winter: A neoprene wetsuit or dry suit with warm layers may be needed. Average winter water temperatures range from 38° to 45° Fahrenheit (3° to 7° Celsius).
As with most national parks, Zion's busiest season is when the kids are off school and most people take their vacations. That means weekends much of the year and the most crowded time between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Seeing an American Black Bear in Zion National Park is rare but not unheard of. Since bear sightings are so rare each one, even a possible siting, should be reported to park officials. It is important to know the procedure for bear encounters on the off chance that you may see one.
Water flow permitting, the Narrows is open all year round. If you chose to hike the Narrows when it's cold (late fall, winter, or early spring), it's important to have the right gear to prevent hypothermia and other ill effects due to cold.
Best Time to Go to Zion National Park to Avoid CrowdsThe least crowded months in Zion are December to February when the weather is cold. If you're looking for warmer weather with fewer crowds, consider visiting from March to April or October to November instead.
Best time of day to hike the NarrowsIf 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.
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.
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.