Temple of Sinawava
The final shuttle stop and trailhead for Zion's iconic Narrows hike, surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Temple of Sinawava
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The final shuttle stop and trailhead for Zion's iconic Narrows hike, surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs.
"A breathtaking finale to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the gateway to the legendary Narrows trail."
🎯 Ride the Free Shuttle
The Zion Canyon Shuttle is your ticket to the Temple of Sinawava. It runs frequently, making access easy.
💧 Gear Up for The Narrows
Rent water shoes, a walking stick, and neoprene socks for a comfortable Narrows hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gateway to The Narrows
Trailhead
The starting point for the iconic Riverside Walk and the legendary Narrows hike. Prepare to get wet!
Towering Sandstone Amphitheater
Main viewing area
Marvel at the immense, sun-kissed sandstone cliffs that create a breathtaking natural amphitheater.
Seasonal Waterfall
Northwest view
Catch a glimpse of a nearly 1,000-foot-high seasonal waterfall cascading down the canyon walls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Shuttle System is Key
Prepare for The Narrows
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ride the Free Shuttle
The Zion Canyon Shuttle is your ticket to the Temple of Sinawava. It runs frequently, making access easy.
💧 Gear Up for The Narrows
Rent water shoes, a walking stick, and neoprene socks for a comfortable Narrows hike.
🚶♀️ Paved Riverside Walk
Enjoy the easy, paved 1.1-mile Riverside Walk to the river's edge before The Narrows.
🐿️ Wildlife Sightings
Keep an eye out for elk and curious squirrels along the trail. They can be quite friendly!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ride the Free Shuttle
The Zion Canyon Shuttle is your ticket to the Temple of Sinawava. It runs frequently, making access easy.
💧 Gear Up for The Narrows
Rent water shoes, a walking stick, and neoprene socks for a comfortable Narrows hike.
🚶♀️ Paved Riverside Walk
Enjoy the easy, paved 1.1-mile Riverside Walk to the river's edge before The Narrows.
🐿️ Wildlife Sightings
Keep an eye out for elk and curious squirrels along the trail. They can be quite friendly!
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The towering cliffs and river offer stunning photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Temple of Sinawava as a breathtaking finale to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the essential gateway to the iconic Narrows hike. The towering sandstone amphitheater and the accessible Riverside Walk are highlights, offering awe-inspiring natural beauty for all. While the shuttle system is convenient, some note potential crowds and ongoing renovations.
"Visited on 9.21.2025. The first stop on the shuttle bus for my adventure through Zion National Park. Easy trailhead to the Narrows section with some amazing views."
Rick White
"A breathtaking finale to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
The Temple of Sinawava is the last stop on the shuttle route and the gateway to the Riverside Walk and the start of the legendary Narrows trail. This natural amphitheater, with its towering stone walls, seasonal waterfall, and the Virgin River winding through the canyon, is one of Zion’s most awe-inspiring spots—a perfect place to pause, reflect, and truly appreciate nature’s grandeur.
There’s a large parking lot (currently under renovation), a covered shuttle stop (in operation March–November), water bottle filling stations, and restrooms—although they’re temporarily replaced with porta-potties. The area is open 24 hours, but no overnight camping is allowed. From the parking area, you can easily access the river and, if you look northwest, catch views of the nearly 1,000-foot-high seasonal waterfall.
Highly recommend taking your time here before heading into The Narrows or simply soaking in the views."
Halide Ebcinoglu
"The free shuttle bus is the best way to get here. Restrooms are clean with running water. The hike to the river walk is only 1.1 miles on a paved trail. Families with little children and elderly had no problems. You'll see elk, and squirrels will come right up to you."
J T
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Temple of Sinawava is the last stop on the free Zion Canyon Shuttle. You cannot drive your personal vehicle to this location during most of the year. The shuttle runs frequently, but lines can form, especially during peak season.
There is a large parking lot at the Temple of Sinawava, but it is often under renovation or full. It's best to rely on the shuttle system.
Yes, you can bike along the Pa'rus Trail to the Temple of Sinawava. E-bikes are also a popular option for exploring Zion.
The Zion Canyon Shuttle typically operates from March through November. Check the official Zion National Park website for the most up-to-date schedule and operating hours.
From the Visitor Center, the shuttle ride to the Temple of Sinawava takes approximately 45-50 minutes, with stops at various viewpoints along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no separate ticket required for the Temple of Sinawava itself. Your park entrance fee covers access to the shuttle and all trailheads within Zion National Park.
The Temple of Sinawava area is open 24 hours a day, but the shuttle service operates on a set schedule, typically from early morning to late evening.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Zion National Park. You can purchase a pass at the park entrance or online. An America the Beautiful Pass is also accepted.
You can hike The Narrows from the bottom-up (starting at the Temple of Sinawava) without a permit for day hikes. However, overnight trips or top-down hikes require a permit.
Closures can occur due to weather, flash floods, or maintenance. Always check the official Zion National Park website for current conditions and alerts before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Temple of Sinawava is the trailhead for the Riverside Walk and The Narrows. It's also a place to admire the towering sandstone cliffs and a seasonal waterfall.
Yes, the Riverside Walk is a paved, relatively flat 1.1-mile trail that is accessible for families with children, strollers, and individuals with mobility challenges.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the paved trail. If you plan to hike The Narrows, bring appropriate water shoes and consider quick-drying clothing.
Restrooms are available at the Temple of Sinawava, though they may be temporarily replaced with porta-potties during renovations or peak season.
While you can access the Virgin River, swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and cold water. It's primarily for wading into The Narrows.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire area offers stunning views of the sandstone amphitheater, the Virgin River, and the seasonal waterfall. The start of The Narrows provides dramatic shots.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones on the sandstone cliffs.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited in Zion National Park, including at the Temple of Sinawava, to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
A waterproof camera or a good phone case is essential. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions in the canyon.
The seasonal waterfall is visible from the main area looking northwest. It's most prominent after significant rainfall.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider bringing water shoes for the kids if you plan on wading. The shuttle system makes getting here easy, and the open spaces allow for a bit of freedom. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife like squirrels and deer, which are always a hit with children.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
While the Riverside Walk is accessible, venturing into The Narrows solo requires extra caution. Inform someone of your plans, check the weather meticulously, and consider renting a walking stick for stability. The camaraderie among hikers in The Narrows can also be a pleasant surprise, with many willing to share tips and keep an eye out for each other.
📸 Photographers
+1Beyond the grand vistas, focus on the details: the patterns in the rock, the flow of the Virgin River, and the delicate beauty of the seasonal waterfall. If you plan to hike The Narrows, bring waterproof gear for your camera or phone to capture the immersive experience of wading through the water with canyon walls soaring above.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking The Narrows: A Zion Icon
Planning your Narrows hike is crucial. Check the weather forecast for flash flood potential, as conditions can change rapidly. Renting specialized gear like neoprene socks, sturdy water shoes with good grip, and a walking stick is highly recommended for comfort and safety. The water temperature can be chilly, even in summer, so consider quick-drying clothing.
The Riverside Walk, a paved, accessible 1.1-mile trail leading from the Temple of Sinawava to the river's edge, serves as the perfect prelude to The Narrows. It's a beautiful walk in itself, offering stunning views and a taste of the canyon's grandeur before you step into the water.
+1Navigating Zion's Shuttle System
Understanding the shuttle's operation is key to a smooth visit. Shuttles run frequently, but during peak times, expect queues. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the longest waits. Familiarize yourself with the shuttle map and schedule to plan your itinerary effectively.
If you finish your hike earlier than anticipated, don't worry. Shuttles continue to run for a period after the last trail access, allowing you to return to the Visitor Center or your lodging.
Wildlife Encounters at Temple of Sinawava
Squirrels are also abundant and can be quite bold, sometimes approaching visitors in search of snacks. While it's tempting to feed them, it's important to remember that they are wild animals and should not be fed human food, as it can be harmful to their health and disrupt their natural behaviors.
Social
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