Zion Narrows Guided Hike — Bottom-Up River Trek Through Slot Canyon Walls
Wade the Virgin River beneath thousand-foot sandstone walls on a guided bottom-up hike into Zion’s Narrows. This 6-hour experience pairs hands-on route guidance with essential safety practices for walking the canyon river corridor.
The Experience
Before You Go
Rent Neoprene Gear
Water gear isn’t provided—rent neoprene socks, bibs, and canyon boots in Springdale to stay warm and protect your feet.
Check Flash Flood Forecasts
The Narrows closes quickly in storms—confirm weather and park conditions before you go and heed ranger guidance.
Use a Sturdy Trekking Pole
A collapsible pole with a carbide tip dramatically improves balance on slippery river rocks.
Protect Electronics
Bring a dry bag or waterproof case—phones and cameras can’t survive long in waist-deep cold water.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short detour to Grafton ghost town along the Zion Scenic Byway
- •Quiet riffles and small pools upstream of Orderville Canyon where light pools through a narrow slit
Wildlife
- •Mule deer
- •Peregrine falcon
Conservation Note
The Narrows is sensitive to human impact and flash floods—practice Leave No Trace, avoid soap in the river, and follow ranger closures to protect fragile habitats.
The Narrows follows the Virgin River through Navajo sandstone shaped over millions of years; the corridor lies on lands historically used by the Southern Paiute and later explored by Mormon settlers.
What to Bring
Neoprene socks and canyon bootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and provides traction on slippery riverbeds
Breathable quick-dry layers + waterproof bibsEssential
Layers and bibs reduce heat loss in cold water and allow temperature control
Trekking pole with carbide tipEssential
Improves stability on uneven, slippery river rocks
Dry bag for electronics and snacksEssential
Keeps essentials dry during long river sections
Common Questions
Do I need a permit to hike the Narrows?
Day hikes from the bottom-up do not require a permit; top-down through-hikes require a permit and are more technical.
Is the water deep or cold?
Depth varies from ankle to waist or higher; temperature is cold year-round—neoprene gear is recommended outside high summer.
Will guides provide gear?
This tour’s guides do not supply river gear—rentals are available in Springdale at local outfitters with season-appropriate packages.
What safety risks should I watch for?
Flash floods are the primary hazard—always check weather forecasts, park alerts, and follow your guide’s instructions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–6 hours
Location
Springdale, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate aerobic fitness and good balance; must be comfortable walking in waist-to-thigh-deep cold water for extended periods
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