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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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.
The Narrows and Keyhole CanyonWhile not dangerous on a normal, dry day, they can become deadly in only a matter of seconds if it begins to rain. Flash floods can fill the canyons, washing hikers and debris downstream and making it almost impossible to escape.
You cannot safely drink the water from the river on the Narrows hike in Zion. The Virgin River experiences blooms of cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins— really dangerous toxins in novice terms.
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. Yes, we were outnumbered. No, we are not hiking experts by any means but if WE can do it so can you!
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Narrows and Keyhole CanyonWhile not dangerous on a normal, dry day, they can become deadly in only a matter of seconds if it begins to rain. Flash floods can fill the canyons, washing hikers and debris downstream and making it almost impossible to escape.
The Narrows stretches for 16 miles but that's if you hike top-down. Most people hike between 2-6 hours on the Narrows hike when starting at the bottom (~6 miles round trip). Since the Narrows hike is an in-and-out trail, whatever mileage and time you put in hiking in, you have to do out.
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.
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.
Essential gear to hike the Zion Narrows. In preparation for this hike, many people decide to rent specialized gear like canyoneering shoes, neoprene socks, walking sticks, waterproof pants, and even full zip-up dry suits.
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.