The Narrows (Zion)
Utah
The Narrows is a spectacular and narrow gorge carved by the Virgin River in Zion National Park, Utah. It is renowned for its dramatic vertical sandstone walls that rise up to 1,300 feet and its river trail that runs largely wall-to-wall for several miles, creating a unique hiking experience where visitors wade and sometimes swim through the flowing water. The hike can be approached either as a 3.6-mile bottom-up route from the Temple of Sinawava to Big Springs or as a challenging 16-mile top-down through-hike starting at Chamberlain's Ranch. The Narrows is considered one of the premier hikes of the Colorado Plateau, drawing adventurers seeking a blend of natural beauty and physical challenge. The canyon’s walls are often only 40 to 100 feet apart, creating a dramatic and immersive environment. Key sections include Mystery Falls, Orderville Canyon, and the Wall Street section, known for its sheer cliffs. The hike requires permits and varies in difficulty depending on water levels, which fluctuate seasonally. The Narrows embodies the essence of Zion’s rugged landscape and remains a must-experience for visitors to the park.
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Tip: The best time to hike The Narrows is during late spring to early fall when water levels are lower and safer for wading. Permits are required for both the bottom-up and top-down hikes, so it is advisable to reserve them well in advance, especially during peak summer months. Hikers should prepare for wet conditions, including wearing water-friendly footwear and carrying trekking poles for stability. Starting early in the day helps avoid crowds and allows ample time to complete the hike safely. Check weather and flash flood warnings before setting out, as sudden storms can make the hike dangerous.
Interesting facts
- •The Narrows features sandstone walls that can be up to 1,300 feet (400 meters) high.
- •The hike involves walking in the Virgin River, with water depths that can reach waist level or higher.
- •The Wall Street section of The Narrows is named for its sheer cliff walls that tower closely on both sides.
- •The through-hike from Chamberlain's Ranch to the Temple of Sinawava covers 16 miles (26 km) and is considered very strenuous.
- •Permits are required for hiking The Narrows, especially for the top-down route, to manage visitor impact and safety.
History
The Narrows was likely first seen by European-American explorer Nephi Johnson in 1858, guided by a Paiute Indian.
The area was later explored and named in 1872 by geologist Grove Karl Gilbert during the Wheeler Survey.
Early tourism involved horseback trips through the canyon, which continued into the 1960s before hiking became the primary mode of exploration.
The nearby towns of Virgin and Springdale were established in the early 1860s, marking the beginning of settlement near Zion Canyon.
Since Zion National Park's establishment in 1919, The Narrows has evolved into one of its most iconic and challenging hikes.
Place Guide
Temple of Sinawava
The starting point for the bottom-up hike of The Narrows, located where the Virgin River enters the main Zion Canyon. It features a flat canyon floor and marks the transition into the narrow gorge.
Mystery Falls and Mystery Canyon
Located near the first bend of the hike, Mystery Falls is the exit point for Mystery Canyon, a tributary slot canyon known for its waterfalls and technical canyoneering.
Orderville Canyon
A side canyon encountered about 2.5 miles into the hike, offering additional scenic views and a confluence point within The Narrows.
Wall Street Section
A dramatic part of The Narrows characterized by sheer vertical sandstone cliffs that rise closely on both sides, creating a narrow corridor often only 40 to 100 feet apart.
Big Springs
The turnaround point for the bottom-up hike at 4.3 miles, where the canyon narrows again and marks the end of the permitted hiking distance for this route.
Chamberlain's Ranch
The starting point for the top-down through-hike, located 11 miles upstream from Zion National Park in a forested area. The hike descends from here into the deep gorge of The Narrows.
