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One of the most bizarre and incredible hikes I have ever done is in Zion National Park. And, no, it’s not Angel’s Landing. That story is simply for another time.

My favorite hike in the entire park was The Narrows, a water hike through a gorge carved out by the Virgin River.

Here is everything you need to know about hiking the Narrows from someone who actually hiked it!

The Narrows in Zion National Park

First, talk about the Narrows, a slot canyon carved by the Virgin River over millions of years.

It’s well-known for its towering sandstone walls that rise to 1,000 feet and the hike that brings you through it.

Hiking the Narrows in Zion involves walking in the river’s shallow waters, with the canyon walls sometimes only a few feet apart.

The scenery is breathtaking, with sunlight filtering through the narrow canyon and creating dramatic lighting effects on the rock walls.

It’s a challenging yet rewarding adventure, but hikers must be aware of weather conditions, as flash floods can occur suddenly and pose significant dangers.

What Gear Do I Need To Hike The Narrows?

You should not do this hike without gear, but renting for the day is easy.

We got ours from Zion Outfitter, which was close to the walkable entry point in Zion National Park.

We booked our gear in advance online to make sure they had our sizes in stock.

We visited in November, which meant the water would be colder. We opted for the Dry Pants Package, which was $49 per person.

The Dry Pants come up to the waist, and we wore our winter jackets with them.

A tight rubber gasket in the ankle of the pants keeps all water out, allowing us to wear regular hiking clothes and insulating layers underneath.

Neoprene socks, which insulate and cause fewer blisters than regular wet socks, keep our feet warm even when they get wet.

The canyoneering boots provide unmatched grip on wet and dry rock and necessary ankle support.

The wooden hiking stick is ideal for balance and stability, and holds up much better than regular trekking poles in the Narrows.

We felt dry the entire time, even when water got in our boots a few times.

How To Get To The Narrows Trailhead

From Zion Outiftter, we walked through the park entrance to the bus stop. Since this is one of the most popular starting spots, there were plenty of buses ready to go. We sat on the bus until we reached the Narrows Trailhead.

You will get off at Shuttle Stop #9 , the last stop on the Zion Canyon Line. The Narrows hike starts at the Temple of Sinawava at the northern tip of Zion Canyon.

Below is the 2024 Zion National Park Shuttle Map. I recommended saving this to your phone to make your entire trip easier.

How to Hike The Narrows in Zion

There are two options when hiking the Narrows, and the most popular one is the

Bottom-Up Hike From the Temple of Sinawava

This hike is 9.4 miles with an elevation gain of 334 feet. The good part is that most hikers did not go this far into the trail. How far you will go will depend on your time and the water levels.

As you start your hike, you will weave your way along the paved path of the Temple of Sinawava. This riverside walk is beautiful and wheelchair accessible, too.

This portion of the hike is one mile and will eventually end as you reach the water.

Now, you will climb into the water and descend the river until you reach the beautiful Canyon.

Be mindful when climbing into the river, as the rocks are slippery.

A few tried to do the hike without gear and left with twisted ankles and intense cuts.

Many hikers will stop at Orderville Canyon, which is two miles up the stream.

We hiked about three miles before making our way back.

While three miles does not seem like a lot, it is when trekking through water over slippery rocks. It was a strenuous hike, and we were tired when we reached the Canyon.

Plan at least six hours to complete the six-mile hike like I did.

Start early and plan around ten hours in the water to do everything. The water will slow you down, even if you are a fast hiker.

The Narrows Conditions

I cannot stress enough the importance of this: Always check the National Park Website before hiking the Narrows.

The trail can be closed due to heavy flooding or expected rainfall.

National Park Service: Current Conditions

Be Aware Of Flash Floods

The Narrows are prone to flash flooding because much of the surrounding area is bare rock that does not absorb water. During storms, runoff is funneled rapidly into the Narrows.

During a flash flood, the water level rises almost instantly–within seconds or minutes.

Flash floods are common in Zion, and hikers have been stranded, injured, and even killed by venturing into narrow, flood-prone canyons.

Always check the weather forecast before starting the hike, even if it is open.

Do I Need a Permit to Hike the Narrows?

You do not need a permit to hike the Bottom-Up Hike from the Temple of Sinawava.

However, you need one if you plan to do the 16-mile hike from Chamberlain’s Ranch. This hike is extremely difficult and should only be done by those who plan to do it.

When Should I Hike the Narrows?

Most people hike The Narrows in the summer and early fall when the water tends to be warm and the water level drops. We hiked in late November, and I thought it was a great time to do so!

If you plan to hike in winter and early spring, expect cold water and high water levels.

The Narrows can be closed during the spring when snowmelt raises the river over 150 CFS. Fall brings more stable weather, but days get shorter, and the water temperature drops.

However, life-threatening flash floods are possible anytime and are expected during the monsoon season.

Does Zion National Park Have Timed Entry?

As of 2025, Zion National Park does not have a timed entry system.

No tickets, permits, or reservations are needed to ride the park shuttle or enter Zion National Park.

All you need is your National Park Pass to enjoy!

Where Is The Narrows Hike?

The hike leaves from the Temple of Sinawava, shuttle stop #9.

Explore More National Parks

I love exploring National Parks & I have so many tips and tricks to share with you.

You can check out my entire National Park Collection.

.Visiting Utah’s Big 5? Check out my guide on The Best Spots For Stargazing at Arches National Park and Your Guide To The Delicate Arch in Arches National Park

Or spend some time enjoying Glacier National Park’s Enchanting Avalanche Lake Hike.

If you are visiting Maine, here are 20 Exciting Things To Do In Acadia National Park.