What is the water like in the Narrows in October?

The water in the Virgin River can get down in the 30s in fall and winter, so you will need a neoprene wetsuit or dry suit to complete this hike. The Narrows uses the river as its trail, so you can expect to be walking, wading, and sometimes even swimming in the river on your way through the canyon.



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In my opinion, September and October are the best months to hike the Zion Narrows. If you plan to do this as a day hike from the top-down, doing this before September 30 gives you about 13 to 14 hours to hike the route, allowing for drop-off time at Chamberlain's Ranch and the last shuttle of the day at 9:15 pm.

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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. 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.

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October is a wonderful time to spend outdoors enjoying Zion National Park. Daytime temperatures will likely drop into the pleasant zone, and you'll be there for the start of fall foliage season depending on the elevation.

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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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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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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.

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Zion National Park is open all year, but buildings open and close at different times during the year. The National Park Service provides free shuttles in the town of Springdale and Zion Canyon. From early-spring until late-fall, riding a shuttle bus is the only way to visit Zion Canyon.

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Best time of day to hike the Narrows The big rush tends to be in the morning as the people who want to hike the furthest start early. By the afternoon, the lower sections are quieter and warmer, which makes for a more enjoyable hike.

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And from March to November, Zion's Scenic Drive is only accessible via shuttle. If you visit the park during off season, when the shuttle isn't running, you may enter in your private vehicle. Biking Zion's Scenic Drive is always allowed.

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The biggest advantage of an October visit to Bryce Canyon is that the visitor numbers drop after September. The popular Rim Trail that travels around the canyon rim is packed with people in the summer. Hike this trail in October to marvel at the famous hoodoos, fins, and slot canyons — without the crowds.

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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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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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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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