Zion Narrows
Bottom-Up Route
Hike Into the Heart of tthe Canyon
No permits. No guesswork. Just you, the river, and walls that rise like cathedrals.
This isn’t your average stroll through the park. The Bottom-Up Narrows hike is a choose-your-own-adventure into one of Zion’s most iconic landscapes. It’s wet. It’s wild. It’s unforgettable.
Starting at the Temple of Sinawava—the final stop on Zion’s scenic shuttle route—you’ll walk a paved path into the canyon… and then straight into the Virgin River. From here on out, the trail disappears and the adventure begins.
Quick Trail Snapshot
Difficulty: Moderate (but can get strenuous with high water flow)
Distance: Up to 10 miles round trip (turn back anytime)
Time Needed: 4–8 hours
Elevation: Flat, but rocky and wet
Permit Required: Nope
Preferred Season: All year, with the right gear
River Flow Alert: The Narrows closes if flow exceeds 150 CFS (check conditions before heading out)
Route Highlights
The Start
From the Temple of Sinawava, follow the Riverside Walk—a peaceful, paved mile that eases you into canyon life. The cliffs close in. The river glistens. Excitement builds. Once the pavement ends, your shoes hit water. Literally. The canyon here is still relatively wide, more gorge than slot. You’ll find beaches, high ground, and—if you’re lucky—Mystery Falls tumbling 120 feet from a hidden world above. Keep your eyes peeled; you might spot canyoneers making their descent.
The Middle
Roughly 2.5 miles in, the canyon tightens like a breath being held. You’ve reached the junction with Orderville Canyon—a narrow tributary that forks off to your right (permits required if you plan to go there). Stay left to continue deeper into Wall Street, where the true Narrows begin. Now, the river dominates. High ground disappears. The light grows dimmer. The canyon... quieter. And it’s stunning.
The End: Big Spring
Cruise past the crowds and experience the quiet magic of the canyon up close.
Author’s Note
I hike this route every winter—and every time, it feels brand new.
There’s something about the stillness, the moss-covered canyon walls awakened by snowmelt, and the seasonal waterfalls bursting from hidden canyons that brings this place to life. It’s not just a hike. It’s an experience I recommend to every single person visiting Zion.
Leave No Trace
This place is sacred—treat it that way.
Whatever you bring in, take out (yes, everything). Let’s keep the Narrows pristine for the next wave of wanderers.