The Narrows Regulations

The Narrows is a special place that sees thousands of visitors each year. Much of The Narrows is also designated Wilderness.

Help us protect this unique landscape by following the rules and regulations below.

 

 

Bottom-up hikers may not travel beyond Big Spring in the Virgin River (roughly 4.7 miles in) or beyond 1/4 mile into Orderville Canyon.

NPS Map

Boundaries & Permits

Bottom-Up Hiking Route

Wilderness Permits are not required for hiking trips starting at the Temple of Sinawava (Shuttle Stop #9). However, upstream travel is limited by the following boundaries:

• Upstream travel in the Virgin River Narrows is not allowed beyond Big Spring.

• Upstream travel into Orderville Canyon is not allowed after 1/4 mile from the junction.

Top-Down Hiking Route

Permits are required for all top-down 16 mile trips from Chamberlain’s Ranch through the Virgin River Narrows. Permits must be obtained in person from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center Wilderness Desk during normal hours of operation. Learn more about permits on our Narrows Permits page.

 

Group Size Limits

Above the junction of The Narrows and Orderville Canyon, the maximum group size for upstream travel is 12 people. For top-down trips, group size limits vary — visit the Narrows Permits page for more information.

• A group is any number of people sharing the same affiliation (e.g., club, scout troop, colleagues, family, friends, etc.) on the same trail or drainage on the same day, even if they have multiple permits.

• Group size limits are strictly enforced to protect the visitor experience. Permits will be denied and violators will be cited if limits are exceeded.

Inflatable Tubes are Prohibited

Recreational inflatable tubes are not allowed on any watercourse within park boundaries. If you wish to float the river in a kayak or other vessel, visit our river trips page.

Structured and Guided Activities

Structured and/or guided activities facilitated by educational, commercial, or other organizations are prohibited within Wilderness areas. These activities are only authorized to occur on frontcountry trails.

Leave No Trace

While hiking in Zion, please show respect for your national park and your fellow visitors by following each of the Leave No Trace principles. You can also watch an NPS Leave No Trace video here.

Here are some key considerations for The Narrows:

 

Leave What You Find

Stay in the Watercourse

Dispose of Waste Properly

Respect Wildlife

 

Protect The Wilderness

Wilderness is a rare wild place where one can retreat from civilization, reconnect with the earth and find healing, meaning, and significance. Knowledge, respect, and understanding for these wild and undeveloped places will ensure that they remain spectacular for years to come. To learn more, visit the National Park Service Wilderness page and Wilderness Connect.

Much of The Narrows are Designated Wilderness. Learn about additional Wilderness Regulations before embarking on a trip.

Plan Ahead and Prepare

Rescue is not a certainty. Your safety is your responsibility. Learn about proper clothing, gear, and behavior on our Narrows Safety page.

 

The Narrows from the Bottom Up

Hiking upstream in The Narrows does not require a permit. However, the hike is challenging. Read up on how to have a safe and fun trip here.

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.

Wilderness Regulations

Help keep Zion's backcountry beautiful. Follow the rules and regulations of wilderness areas.