The Zion Narrows

Where the River Becomes the Trail

Deep within Zion National Park lies a place where the canyon walls soar a thousand feet overhead—and the only way forward is straight through the Virgin River. This isn’t just a hike—it’s a journey through time, water, and ancient stone.

The Bottom-Up Narrows Hike

The most popular way to hike the Zion Narrows begins at the end of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the final shuttle stop, the Temple of Sinawava. After a mile-long stroll along the paved Riverside Walk, the trail abruptly ends and the river becomes the path.

Wade through cool, flowing water beneath sandstone cliffs that feel otherworldly. The canyon begins wide and calm, dotted with quiet alcoves and sunlit ledges. But keep going… because around 2.5 miles in, the walls close in. The light fades. The magic intensifies. This is Wall Street—the most iconic stretch of the Narrows.

You can turn back anytime. Most hikers aim for the junction with Orderville Canyon, where Wall Street begins. For bottom-up hikers, Big Spring—a quiet cascade tucked into the canyon wall—is your turnaround point.

Distance: 3–10 miles (your choice)

Difficulty: Moderate (but variable depending on river flow)

Permit: Not required

Season: Year-round with proper gear

Time Needed: 4–8 hours

The Top-Down Narrows HIke

The Top Down Narrows hike is the full Narrows experience and requires extensive physical and logistical planning. Beginning at Chamberlain’s Ranch, this 16-mile trek is a bucket-list journey—the kind you tell stories about for years. It’s long, strenuous, and absolutely stunning. You’ll follow the Virgin River as it cuts deeper and deeper into the heart of Zion’s backcountry, ending at the Temple of Sinawava. This route requires a Zion Wilderness Permit which can be obtained on the park website. The hike can be completed by strong groups in a single day but is best broken into an overnight backpacking trip to allow more time to soak up the views.

Distance: 16 miles (one way)

Difficulty: Strenuous

Permit: Required (day or overnight)

Season: Summer and Fall are best

Time Needed: 10–18 hours

Shuttle Required: Yes (we recommend Red Rock Shuttle: (435-635-9104)

Gear Up

The rough terrain in the Zion Narrows calls for the right equipment.

At Zion Outfitter, we equip you with everything you need to stay comfortable, safe, and stoked.

Our canyoneering boots are designed to provide grip and important ankle support on the wet, uneven river rocks. The neoprene socks help maintain your body temperature and prevent blisters, unlike regular hiking socks. The wooden hiking stick improves stability during the many river crossings and holds up much better than collapsible trekking poles in the sand and water.

Our Narrows Packages Include:

Canyoneering Boots – Built for slick riverbeds, designed for grip and ankle support

Neoprene Socks – Keep the warmth in and the blisters out

Wooden Hiking Stick – Trust us: it’s sturdier than your trekking poles in the Narrows