Is The Narrows toxic?

The NPS has advised visitors against swimming or submerging their heads in the affected Zion waterways and warned people not to drink water from anywhere in the park. The watches and warnings extend to popular areas of the park, including The Narrows and Emerald Pools.



People Also Ask

The park has advised visitors against swimming and submerging themselves in the contaminated water. At this time, La Verkin Creek and the North Fork of the Virgin River, including the popular Narrows hike, are under cyanobacteria-related advisories as well.

MORE DETAILS

Scientists have discovered cyanobacteria in Zion at the bottom of the Virgin River and its tributaries. Benthic cyanobacteria are the sort of cyanobacteria found adhering to river bottoms. On rocks, plants, along the banks of rivers, and on the river's edge, benthic cyanobacteria flourishes.

MORE DETAILS

Leeches are unique to Zion because they are an important food source to other animals. Leeches are eaten by many other animals which helps keep animals from starving.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

DRINKING WATER: Virgin River water in the Zion Narrows is not safe to drink untreated. Either carry all the water you will need or bring a water filter (removes bacteria and protozoan cysts like Giardia from contaminated water) or purifier (a purifier also removes viruses).

MORE DETAILS

Can a Beginner do the Zion Narrows Day Hike? Yes, beginner hikers can absolutely do the Zion Narrows day hike! Even if you don't have much hiking experience, you will be perfectly fine hiking the Narrows.

MORE DETAILS

Not only are river rocks wet, round, and extremely slippery; they are also prone to unpredictable shifting, making walking more challenging. Hypothermia: Even on sunny summer days, when temperatures in Springdale can be 100º, Narrows hikers are vulnerable to hypothermia.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS