Hiking The Narrows in Zion National Park

The Narrows is a gorge carved by the Virgin river in the narrowest part of the canyon in Zion National Park (hence the name “Narrows”) and is only 20-30 feet wide in some areas. The “hike” is actually misleading as there is no hiking trail – you actually a walk upstream in the river in knee deep waters (it gets waist deep in some areas). Its a very unique and enjoyable experience especially in summer when the water is pleasant to walk in.

The hike is 10 mile round trip to the Big Spring, which would take a full day to hike round trip. Most people turn around after a couple of miles or so though. The Narrows is one of the most popular trails in Zion, so expect a lot of crowds here no matter what time of day you get here.

Start your hike at the Temple of Sinawava via The Riverside Walk which is a 2 mile flat hike to the starting point of the Narrows. Make sure you have waterproof containers for cell phones, wallets etc. as parts of the hike can get you in waist deep waters. It is also best to wear closed toe shoes as you will be walking on rocks on the river bed. A walking stick is also recommended.

The Narrows, Zion National Park in Pictures

The Narrows, Zion National Park
Most of the hike is in this kind of narrow gorge, with water steadily flowing down the Virgin river
The Narrows, Zion National Park
There are plenty of opportunities to take pictures. But something like this with no people in the picture is only possible with a tripod and a slow shutter
The Narrows, Zion National Park
Rocks and free flowing water
The Narrows, Zion National Park
A great place to swim in the summer in the Narrows, Zion National Park
The Narrows, Zion National Park
Hoping the tripod is sturdy enough to hold the camera in the middle of the Virgin river!
The Narrows, Zion National Park
Clear shallow water in The Narrows, Zion National Park

If you have already hiked the Narrows, let us know in comments what was your experience like. We would love to hear from you! If you haven’t but are planning to, check out our list of top things to do in Zion National Park.

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Shirish & Olya

1 thought on “Hiking The Narrows in Zion National Park”

  1. Hola! I’ve been following your blog for a while now and finally got
    the courage to go ahead and give you a shout out from Lubbock Texas!
    Just wanted to say keep up the great work!

    Reply

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