The Narrows from the Bottom Up

The Narrows is home to a variety of plants, animals, and incredible sights.

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Hiking upstream in The Narrows does not require a permit. You can hike as far as Big Spring – a 9.4 mile out-and-back trip. This route allows you to see some of the most spectacular and narrow parts of the canyon.

The Narrows is about the journey, not the destination. There is no one “viewpoint” or "best spot." The entire hike is beautiful, with dozens of seeps, springs, plants, animals, and unique formations along the way. So, hike for a few minutes or a few hours, then turn around and return to the trailhead.

To enter the bottom of The Narrows, head to Temple of Sinawava. Then, walk the Riverside Walk trail (about 1 mile in length). At the end of the paved trail, you will enter the river. This point marks the beginning of The Narrows.

Plan ahead and know what to expect before hiking into the Narrows. There are no bathrooms on the hike, so use the ones at the trailhead and bring human waste disposal bags just in case.

Details

• Starting Location: Temple of Sinawava (Shuttle Stop 9)
  • The trailhead is adjacent to restrooms and a water-filling station.
• Pets: Not allowed
• Distance (one-way): up to 4.7 mi (7.6 km)
• Elevation: 334 ft (102 m)
• Estimated Hiking Time: 1-8 hours
• Permits: Permits are not required

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Orderville Canyon

Orderville Canyon is a common destination for hikers. This is a tributary that flows into the Narrows around two miles up the gorge. Hikers can explore up to ¼ mile of this canyon before turning around.

Upstream travel in Orderville Canyon is not allowed after the first ¼ mile. Hikers wishing to experience the upper end of Orderville Canyon must acquire a canyoneering permit and enter from the top. Canyoneering groups are limited to a maximum of 12 people.

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Recommended Gear

Proper footwear, equipment, and clothing will help protect you in The Narrows. You should also bring water, food, and basics like first aid. Check the Narrows Safety page for a full list of recommended gear.

Here are some key recommendations:

• Proper Footwear: Sandals, crocs, or bare feet are not appropriate and often result in twisted ankles or crushed toes. Wear closed-toe shoes or boots.
• Hiking Stick / Pole: The Narrows is wet and slippery. A stick/pole is recommended for balance.
• Drysuit / Waders: For parts of the year, The Narrows can be quite cold. Many visitors will bring suits/waders to stay warm.

Rentals

Zion National Park does not sell or rent gear. If you don't own any of the gear listed above, you can get it from privately-owned businesses in the area. Search for terms like "outfitter," "gear," or "rental" to find one.

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Safety

The Virgin River Narrows is extremely beautiful, but it is challenging. At least 60% of the hike is spent wading, walking, and sometimes swimming in the river. The water is cold and fast-flowing, and the riverbed is mostly large, slippery boulders. Even on short trips, this hike can be challenging and risky.

Before your hike, always check the weather and flash flood potential. Flash floods can happen at any time, and your safety is your responsibility. Visit our Narrows Safety page for information about flash floods, cyanobacteria, and other potential hazards.

 

Narrows Safety

The Narrows is a strenuous trail that requires proper planning and equipment. Learn about flash floods, cyanobacteria, and more.

 

Top-Down Information

The information above is for an out-and-back hike up the Virgin River Narrows, which can be up to ~9.4 miles in length. Visitors who plan to hike ~16 miles top-down through The Narrows will need a Wilderness Permit.

 

The Narrows from the Top Down

Hike 16 miles through The Narrows starting at Chamberlain's Ranch. This is a permitted hike through Zion Wilderness.

Narrows Regulations

Know how to keep yourself safe and keep the Narrows wild and beautiful.

Things to Do

Find out what there is to do in Zion, from hiking to stargazing.