Hiking Zion's Narrows in Zion National Park in Utah
Mike R entering Zion!
Zion National Park in Utah is host to...in my humble opinion...3 of the 10 best day hikes America has to offer. Zion National Park as a result of that is my favorite of Utah's "Mighty Five" and overall my 6th favorite National Park in the country.)
We cover Observation Point (currently closed) and Angels Landing in other posts but in this article I give you the wildest, and perhaps most dangerous, of the three. The Narrows Hike in Zion. Come Hiking Zion’s Narrows in Zion National Park in Utah with us!
The Narrows is the narrowest section of Zion Canyon...so it's not just a clever name!
When did I hike the Narrows in Zion National Park in Utah?
I hiked the Narrows on a day with my buddy Greg in August of 2015 and again with my partner Jill in November 2020.
How far did we go on the Narrows Hike in Zion?
We reached about a half mile past Orderville Canyon and hiked into that side Canyon. All in all we did about 7 miles round trip. The second time I hiked it we went about 8.5 miles round trip.
Where does the Narrows Hike in Zion begin?
Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop, the first half mile or so is paved leading up to the Narrows section, you will come in on the Zion Canyon Shuttle.
Do you have to hike Zion’s Narrows in the water?
Yes, it is what makes this hike so unique, so unforgettable, and ultimately so dangerous due to flash floods. Many have died tragically on this trek. Always TRIPLE check flash flood levels with Zion on their current conditions. They are also good with updating these on FB and Twitter.
What should I bring on the Narrows Hike?
Closed toed and waterproof shoes! Hiking poles (I have a great pair from REI.) I would have fallen 10 times without my poles. Also bring a waterproof device for your photo gear, water (it is still a workout even though you are in water), and the usuals like sunscreen, sunglasses, Larabars, etc. Oh yeah...a sense of calm as you adventure into the unknown!
I am a crazy hiking SOB, can I do more than a day hike in the Narrows?
Yep! You can secure a backcountry wilderness permit and hike all the way down and spend the night. More deets HERE!
Where should I stay in Zion National Park?
The Zion Lodge, tent camping in the dirt, or Springdale Utah!
When should I go do the Narrows Hike?
Obviously only after checking the flash flood levels, but typically your best bet is summer/fall. I was there in May and the river level wasn't even close!
What's your favorite story from the narrows hike?
When Greg and I were wrapping up this German guy came walking through in bare feet (somehow he had made it about a half mile already), no hiking poles, and opened a can of Budweiser at 10am and said to me "When in Rome!" Hahaha!
Go on this hike. But be safe AND smart and only go if conditions are overwhelmingly in your favor to return in one piece. It is one of my favorites and I can't wait to do it again.
Have you hiked the Narrows? Comments below about your experience in the Narrows or with any questions you have!
Because Adventure Feeds the Soul,
Mike R
