Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Several local companies, including
ZionAdventureCompany
, offer guided trips
through the Narrows, with rates starting at $149 per person for two or more
people.
16 miles one-way. Difficult. Permit required. Access: Chamberlain's Ranch (outside the park); arrange
a shuttle for delivery and pickup; see the introduction to this chapter for shuttle information. From
Zion National Park's east entrance, drive 2 1/2 miles east on Utah 9, turn north onto the road to the
North Fork and Navajo Lake—impassable when wet or snowy—and go 18 miles. Immediately after
crossing the bridge over the Virgin River, turn left onto a gravel road, and go 1 mile to the trail head,
which is just before the river ford.
The Narrows:
safety first
Hiking in the
Narrows,
which are subject to flash flooding, can be treacherous, as there are many
sections where there is no place to escape a rushing wall of water. Hiking here is not advised
when rain is forecast or threatening; park officials strongly recommend that hikers check the latest
National Weather Service forecast before setting out, even when skies appear clear. Weather fore-
casts are posted at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, and rangers are available to discuss current
conditions, but park officials emphasize that all hikers are responsible for their own safety.
Even those planning just a short day hike into the Narrows, entering from the end of the Riverside
Walk, need to spend some time on preparation. Hikers should wear sturdy boots or shoes with
good ankle support that they won't mind getting wet; carry an empty bag to pack out all trash; take
drinking water, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit; be prepared for cold temperatures with a sweater or
jacket; and put everything in waterproof containers. Equipment can be rented from
ZionAdven-
ture Company
.
Experienced Narrows hikers also recommend that you take a walking stick to help steady yourself
against the strong currents. Sticks are sometimes available near the end of the Riverside Walk,
but you're better off taking your own. Hikers are prohibited from cutting tree branches to make
walking sticks. Because there are no restrooms in the Narrows, hikers should use the restroom
at the Riverside Walk Trail Head before heading out. Park officials request that human waste be
buried as far away from the river and other water sources as possible.
Because of strong currents and deep pools, park officials recommend kids under 4'8" tall not hike
in the river.
WestRimTrail
★
This trail has a net elevation loss of 3,400 feet over 14.5 miles to the
Grotto Picnic Area, and many hikers choose to arrange for a shuttle rather than at-
tempting the strenuous climb back to Lava Point—most of the rise is achieved in
