• Temples and Towers of the Virgin

    Zion

    National Park Utah

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  • Fire Restrictions In Effect Starting June 20th in Zion National Park

    Effective June 20th Watchman Campground and South Campground in Zion National Park are closed to campfires due to the abundance of highly flammable cheat grass. Propane and gas stoves are permitted. Fireworks are always prohibited in Zion National Park. More »

Exploring The Narrows

The Narrows

The Virgin River has carved a spectacular gorge in the upper reaches of Zion Canyon: 16 miles long, up to 2,000-feet deep, and at times only 20 to 30-feet wide. The Narrows, with its soaring walls, sandstone grottos, natural springs, and hanging gardens can be an unforgettable wilderness experience. However, it is not a hike to be underestimated.

Hiking The Narrows means hiking in the Virgin River. At least 60 percent of the hike is spent wading, walking, and sometimes swimming in the river. There is no maintained trail because the route is the river. The current is swift, the water is cold, and the rocks underfoot are slippery.

Flash flooding and hypothermia are constant dangers. Good planning, proper equipment, and sound judgment are essential for a safe and successful trip. Your safety is your responsibility.

A permit is required for the 16-mile top-down hike through The Narrows. A permit is not required for hiking The Narrows from the bottom up.

 
Narrows hiker

Hiking The Narrows

  • Narrows Safety Narrows Safety

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  • Narrows Regulations Narrows Regulations

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  • Zion Weather Zion Weather

    Check the latest weather & river flow Read More

  • Wilderness Map and Guide Wilderness Map and Guide

    Download the PDF here (4.19 MB) Read More

Did You Know?

Tarantula

During the summer or fall, you may see a tarantula crossing a road or trail in Zion National Park. But don’t be frightened-- tarantulas are actually amazing arachnids--gentle, basically harmless creatures that have suffered a bum rap. More...