In the upper sections of the Zion Canyon, the Virgin River has carved out a 25.7 km (16 mi) gorge, referred to as The Narrows. Hiking through the gorge is an unusual and occasionally challenging experience that rewards with its breathtaking scenery. For approximately two thirds of the route, the river runs the entire width of the canyon--and thus you walk, wade, and occasionally swim. Wearing the proper attire is essential, as the water can be cold, and the rocks underfoot are slippery. Bring a trekking pole, sturdy shoes, and a change of clothes. Put your dry items, valuables, and electronics in waterproof bags to prevent damage. Use our Zion National Park trip itinerary builder website to add The Narrows and other attractions to your Zion National Park vacation plans.
The Narrows reviews
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Take the 1st bus of the morning. It gets very crowded as the morning goes by. Rent the special shoes. They're worth it. A hiking pole (or two) is a must. Not your regular hike, truly one of a kind...
Take the 1st bus of the morning. It gets very crowded as the morning goes by. Rent the special shoes. They're worth it. A hiking pole (or two) is a must. Not your regular hike, truly one of a kind... more »
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This hike is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! We rented dry suits from Zion Guru in town and braved the 37 degree water for this otherworldly experience. Zion is amazing in and of itself, but to be.... more
This hike is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! We rented dry suits from Zion Guru in town and braved the 37 degree water for this otherworldly experience. Zion is amazing in and of itself, but to be.... more »
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This is a difficult hike but extremely rewarding. This may have been the best most unique hike of my life no joke. it is hard to see the rocks and it's easy to slip, but you get used to it after 45 minutes or so. Know you limits and do not rush. We did the whole trail that you don't need a permit for and it practically took all day but it was amazing. Go Early to avoid the crowd and the heat! Trust me this is worth waking up early for. Get the rental gear too if you can. My feet are usually always cold but these neoprene boots kept my feet warm the whole time! This is a once in a lifetime hike and scenery to do with the ones that you love! Have fun!
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What a fun family hike in the river, and what awesome cuts through the sandstone! The water was cold, yet was about 2.5 feet deep at most at end of May. Having two trekking poles (as opposed to just one) and wading sandals/watershoes with decent tread really helped with stability in the river. The morning air/breeze was cold, so windbreaker jackets are recommended at the very least! Some of the best, most fascinating portions of the hike were right before arriving at Orderville Gulch - definitely worth the trek!
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