The Narrows

The Basics

The most popular Narrows hiking route leads up the canyon from the Temple of Sinawava. Follow the mile-long (1.6-kilometer) Riverside Walk to where the paved trail ends and the real Narrows begin. For the next 4 miles (6 kilometers), slosh through the Virgin River and weave deeper and deeper into the wild. The other route begins at Chamberlain’s Ranch on the park’s northern boundary and follows the river for 16 miles (26 kilometers) down Zion Canyon.

Explore The Narrows independently at your own pace. It’s also possible to visit on a multi-day national parks tour from Las Vegas, which allows you to see Zion along with other American highlights, such as Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, and the Grand Canyon.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Narrows is a must-see for nature and adventure lovers.

• Waterproof footwear and a hiking stick are recommended. Depending on water levels, it’s also a good idea to bring a wetsuit.

• Although no permits are required when hiking from the Temple of Sinawava, backcountry permits must be acquired when hiking from Chamberlain’s Ranch.

• The Riverside Walk is paved and wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

The Narrows are in Zion National Park, roughly 2.6 hours by road from Las Vegas. Parking is limited inside the park, so it’s a good idea to park in Springdale and ride the free Springdale Shuttle to the park’s Pedestrian Entrance. From there, free shuttles run throughout the park.

When to Get There

Late spring and summer are the most popular times to hike The Narrows, when the water tends to be warmest and the water level is low. However, storms can cause flash floods during these seasons. During winter and early spring, the water is cold and typically high. The route can be closed during spring due to snowmelt; fall typically brings more stable weather.

Zion National Park

The Virgin River carved Zion National Park’s famous white, pink, and red rock formations over time. The Narrows are just one of over a dozen major hiking trails in the park, including Angels Landing, an intense 5-mile (8-kilometer) trail that rewards hikers with sweeping views at the summit. Emerald Pools Trail is another great option, with views of multiple waterfalls and glistening pools.

Ways to explore

There are many ways to experience the Narrows. Options range from the 1-mile (1.6-kilometer), wheelchair-accessible Riverside Walk at the Temple of Sinawava to a 16-mile, downstream through-hike starting at Chamberlain’s Ranch that requires a wilderness permit. Guided tours are a great alternative to independent trips, with options ranging from day-long outings to overnights. Many guided tours of the Narrows provide specialized river-hiking gear—such as boots, neoprene socks, and dry suits—that make the walk more comfortable and are crucial when the water is very cold.

Accessibility

The Riverside Walk from Temple of Sinawava is considered part of the Narrows hiking route and is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Hiking stick, water bottle

What to wear

Closed-toe shoes, moisture-wicking clothing

Not allowed

Drones, pets

Amenities

Restrooms (at Temple of Sinawava and Chamberlain’s Ranch), water bottle filling station (at Temple of Sinawava)

Address

The Narrows are in Zion National Park, roughly two hours by road from Las Vegas.

Driving

Many guided tours depart from Las Vegas for a full day of exploring and include the Narrows. You can also reach the Temple of Sinawava independently by car from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Follow Route 9 east to Zion Canyon Scenic Drive—the 6.7-mile (10.7-kilometer) trip within the park takes roughly 24 minutes.

Public transportation

The Temple of Sinawava is located at shuttle stop 9 on the Zion Canyon Line, which is free and generally operates from March through November.

Best times to visit

Hike the Narrows first thing in the morning to avoid crowds, as well as the monsoon rains that sometimes arrive in the afternoon from June through September.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be a little quieter at Zion National Park.

Best months to visit

Relatively warm water—and low water levels—mean summer and early fall are popular times to hike the Narrows. The route sometimes closes in April to May if the water level is too high.

Special events

The Zion Canyon Music Festival held each September brings live acts to Springdale, a community just outside the boundaries of the national park.