In Zion National Park, one of the most famous hikes is not on a normal trail—it’s in a river. The Narrows is a slot canyon carved by the Virgin River, with sandstone walls that rise up to 1,000 feet high and narrow down to just 20–30 feet across.
There are different ways to enjoy The Narrows. Some visitors take the easy, paved Riverside Walk to see the canyon’s entrance. Others hike in the river itself, wading through the shallow water. The most adventurous go for the 16-mile top-down hike, which takes a full day and requires a permit.
Because you’re hiking in a river, conditions depend on the water level and flow. The Narrows is closed during flash flood warnings, and the safest time to visit is in summer and early fall when the water is warm and low. In winter, the water is icy, and in spring, melting snow can make it unsafe.
For safe hiking, the river flow should be below 70 cubic feet per second (CFS). Above that, walking becomes harder, and at 150 CFS, The Narrows is closed.
If you go, wear close-toed shoes, bring a hiking stick, and be prepared for slippery rocks. Even with the challenges, hiking The Narrows is an unforgettable experience—like walking through nature’s giant sandstone hallway.
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