The Narrows - Zion National Park
- DauntlessAdventuer
- Dec 6, 2021
- 2 min read
The Narrows, Utah - Zion National Park
There is a reason this is number 10 on the 25 of the Best Hikes in the USA: Absolute Epic Trails for 2021 (see link below). This hike through the canyons of Zion is filled with water making it different than any other hike you have experienced. The water level can be anywhere from ankle deep to chest high so be sure to check the conditionals daily.
This hike also has the risks of flash floods so be sure to monitor the weather prior to and throughout the day of your hike.
This hike is considered and in and out hike the total distance can be 16 roundtrip, but you may turn around at whatever point you see fit. The deeper into the canyon you go the more the crowd dwindles which trust me you want to get past the initial heavy crown that is usually present in the first 5 miles. The Narrows is so much more spectacular when you are not surrounded by 100 people. Like all hikes the earlier you go the better the chance to beat the crowds. This hike is intense in the sense of some sections you may need to swim and the rocks you are walking along are not stable ever step is a change to roll your ankle. When I did this hike originally I wore sneakers to not destroy my hiking boots while it was not the end of the world - hiking boots are strongly recommended. If you are like me and don't want your pair to endure that much stress try Zion Outfitters (see Narrow rentals below and seasonal recommendations). Located just outside of park property it is walking distance from where you park your car. They have different rentals for all times of the year including boots, walking sticks, dry pants, and more. Personally I was not the biggest fan of hiking sticks after the first two miles it feels like more of a chore to carry - but if you have issues with balance it really does make the journey much easier. Always remember for your journey you are located in a canyon there isn't much shade always pack sunscreen, a hat, and extra water.
As a day hike if you want to concur the whole hike it takes an average about 13 hours. There is a camping option by permit only if you want to extend this adventure into a two day trip. This is also the trail that leads to the Temple of Sinawava. Even if you only complete a small section of the hike I highly recommend it.
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