Zion National Park: The Famous Narrows River Trail Hike – Zion National Park, Utah
Embark on a fantastic “Bucket-list hike”. Enjoy the adventure of wading upriver, in the deepest slot canyon in North America, known as “The Narrows,” and let the 2000 ft cliffs amaze and humble you.
PRICE: See Booking Site
Full description
This is the perfect hot-weather hike! Shade, wading and deep shadows make this nice and cool during the hottest times of the year!
We will meet at 7 a.m. at the Visitors’ Center just past the South Entrance (in Springdale Utah). From there we will catch the shuttle to the Riverside Trail. This beautiful, shady 2-mile trail (round trip) will take us to the beginning of The Narrows Trail. We will wade upstream in the cool waters of the beautiful Virgin River for one or two miles, depending on your fitness level.
The cliffs will rise on both sides of us to dizzying heights of about 2,000 feet, while the canyon itself becomes narrower and narrower. The views are spectacular!
At the beginning of Wall Street take a break and enjoy mandarin oranges, granola bars and chips. You can also explore the Orderville Gulch, an even narrower canyon or go further up the Virgin River if you have the energy and desire.
At that point we will turn around for the return trip to the Riverside Trail then back to the shuttle buses and from there to the Visitors’ Center. Be aware that the nature of deep canyons is that the views on the return trip are completely different from those coming out, though equally stunning and ineffable (I just learned that word! It means “words can’t express.” Very apropos for this trail!)
This is an unforgettable tour!
Notice: The Narrows Hike is closed by Zion National Park when the volumetric flow exceeds 150 cubic feet per second, which usually happens only after extreme rainfall or snow runoff. High rainfall is infrequent, but runoff occurs each year from about April to June (sometimes March as well). Whenever high flow occurs we will find alternate trails for your enjoyment.
Water shoes can be rented in Springdale but are not necessary in the summer, in my humble opinion. Walking staffs can also be rented in Springdale and are highly recommended, but I can provide a limited number for free (about 6).
During the winter months it is advisable to rent waterproof waders and boots. I recommend renting from Zion Outfitters, just outside the Zion pedestrian entrance. Also, wear layers as it can get quite cold in Zion in the winter!
In case of flash flood conditions (infrequent but not unknown) we will offer alternate hikes.
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Highlights
Because of shade and water temperature this is ideal for summer hiking!
I have been a guide in Zion, Bryce and the surrounding areas for over 30 years.
The Narrows Trail is perhaps Zion’s most popular and well known hike, for good reason!
We will wade up through some of the most amazing scenery in the world!
This is doable in the winter! The crowds are lower and the views are amazing!
Includes
Expert instruction on history, geology, plant and animal life;
Expert logistical assistance;
Expert guiding;
Expert advice on anything in the park;
Hiking snacks such as mandarin oranges, granola bars, crackers, etc.
Private guiding, i.e. no strangers allowed;
Maximum flexibility on all issues; I give you my opinions but we go with your wishes;
Pickup and drop-off in St. George, Hurricane, and Springdale;
Guests are responsible for entry fee to Zion National Park – approximately $20 per person
If water gear is desired guests are responsible for rentals – in the summer this could be $0 (i.e. not necessary in the summer), but in the winter this could be as much as $55-$70
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