Zion National Park Narrows Tour

You don’t need a guide—about 85% of hikers choose to go self-guided—but having one can make a big difference, especially if you're new to the area or want a more stress-free experience. Guided tours include all the gear you need, plus lunch, so you don’t have to worry about renting equipment separately. Guides also share insights on geology, history, and safety, and help you navigate the river while avoiding flash flood zones and tricky sections.

On guided hikes, we’re allowed to go as far as the confluence with Orderville Canyon, which still offers an incredible experience through the most iconic section of the Narrows. However, if you're looking to hike beyond Wall Street, into Orderville Canyon or all the way to Big Springs, that portion is only accessible on a self-guided hike.

It depends on how far you want to go. Most hikers do the bottom-up route starting at the Riverside Walk. A typical self-guided hike covers a few miles in and out and usually takes 4–6 hours. On a guided tour, we’re permitted to hike up to Orderville Canyon, which is roughly 6 miles round trip from the Temple of Sinawava. In the river, expect to hike about 1 mile per hour going upstream against the current and a bit faster on the way back with the flow. If you're doing the full top-down through-hike, it’s around 16 miles and typically takes 10–13 hours, or can be done as an overnight with a permit.

Yes, especially the bottom-up hike from the Temple of Sinawava. It’s manageable for most beginners, as long as you're comfortable walking on slippery rocks in flowing water. Just make sure to check the weather and water flow beforehand.

Yes, proper footwear and gear are essential. In the warmer months, neoprene socks and canyoneering boots are usually sufficient—they provide traction on slippery river rocks and help keep your feet warm. In the colder months, waders or dry suits are highly recommended to keep you dry and insulated in the cold water.

You can rent all of this gear locally. And instead of using collapsible trekking poles, opt for a sturdy wooden hiking stick—they’re much more reliable in the river, where standard poles are more likely to bend or break.

Early morning is the best time to hike the Narrows—it’s quieter, the lighting is beautiful, and you’ll avoid the bigger crowds. In summer, starting early also helps you beat the afternoon thunderstorms and flash floods that can roll in.

As for the best times of year, late spring through early fall is the most popular window, but keep in mind that snowmelt in late spring (usually April to early June) can raise water levels and sometimes close the Narrows temporarily due to high flow. Always check the river conditions before heading out.

That said, one of my personal favorite times to hike the Narrows is in winter—especially just after a fresh snowfall. The canyon is incredibly peaceful, the contrast of white snow against the red rock is stunning, and you’ll often have the place to yourself. Just be sure you're properly outfitted in dry gear for the cold water!

The Narrows is considered a moderately challenging hike, but it’s very doable for most people with a basic level of fitness. You’ll be walking on a rocky riverbed and sometimes against a current, which adds a bit of effort—but you don’t gain much elevation, and you can go at your own pace. With the right footwear and a little balance, it’s an unforgettable and rewarding experience.

It varies by season. In summer, it’s chilly but refreshing—around 55–65°F. In spring, fall, and winter, it can drop into the 40s or colder, which is why dry pants or wetsuits are recommended outside of summer.

It’s a unique experience—hiking in a river through towering 1000ft canyon walls. The scenery is stunning and totally immersive. It’s one of the most iconic hikes in the world for a reason.

Dress in quick-drying, synthetic layers (No Cotton!). In summer, you can get away with shorts, yoga pants, light weight hiking pants and a moisture-wicking shirt, but in cooler seasons, you’ll want to dress in layers, wool, neoprene, or dry gear. Always plan for getting wet from the waist down.

It ranges from mid-shins to upper thigh in most places, but there are occasional sections that can be waist to chest-deep depending on recent conditions. However, most deep sections can be avoided. The depth can change with the weather and water flow.

Restrooms are available at the Zion Visitor Center and at the Temple of Sinawava trailhead, which is the last stop on the Zion Canyon Shuttle and the starting point for the Narrows hike. Be sure to use these facilities before you begin, as there are no bathrooms along the trail or in the river.

If nature calls while you’re on the hike, follow Leave No Trace principles. Urinate in the river (yes, really—it’s the most responsible method in this environment), and pack out any solid waste using a WAG bag, which is required by the park for backcountry routes. These can be purchased at local outfitters. Keeping the Narrows clean helps preserve the experience for everyone.