The Narrows Bottom-Up
Wade through the Virgin River amidst towering sandstone walls in Zion's iconic slot canyon. An unforgettable adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warmest water, fewer crowds
The Narrows Bottom-Up
Best Time
Warmest water, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Wade through the Virgin River amidst towering sandstone walls in Zion's iconic slot canyon. An unforgettable adventure.
"Stunning is an understatement! Definitely recommending shoe spikes for most of the snow covered rock portions."
🥾 Rent the Right Gear
Water shoes, neoprene socks, and a hiking stick are essential for comfort and safety. Rent locally!
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Arrive before 9 AM to experience the Narrows with fewer people.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wall Street
The Narrows
Towering canyon walls create a dramatic, narrow passage. A truly awe-inspiring section of the hike.
Riverside Walk
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
The paved path leading to the river's edge, offering stunning views before you get your feet wet.
+1
Big Springs
End of Bottom-Up Hike
The turnaround point for the full bottom-up hike, offering a sense of accomplishment and expansive views.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Gear Up for the River
Timing is Everything
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Rent the Right Gear
Water shoes, neoprene socks, and a hiking stick are essential for comfort and safety. Rent locally! +1
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Arrive before 9 AM to experience the Narrows with fewer people.
💧 Check Water Levels
Flash floods are a real danger. Always check current conditions before you go.
🥾 Spikes for Winter
If hiking in winter, consider shoe spikes for icy, snow-covered rocks. [^Review]
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Rent the Right Gear
Water shoes, neoprene socks, and a hiking stick are essential for comfort and safety. Rent locally! +1
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Arrive before 9 AM to experience the Narrows with fewer people.
💧 Check Water Levels
Flash floods are a real danger. Always check current conditions before you go.
🥾 Spikes for Winter
If hiking in winter, consider shoe spikes for icy, snow-covered rocks. [^Review]
🚽 Use Restrooms Early
Bathrooms are only available at the Temple of Sinawava; none in the Narrows. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty and unique experience of hiking The Narrows, calling it 'epic' and 'unforgettable.' The dramatic canyon walls and the immersive river hike are consistently praised. However, some find the water cold in cooler months, and crowds can be significant during peak times, necessitating early starts and proper gear.
"WE DID IT IN THE WINTER (December) in wet suits, which was excellent! However, don't expect to do more than one hour each way since the water is cold. Even with the wet suits. Was very worth it! #epic #fun"
Y M
"At the end of December 2021 I hiked The Narrows at Zion NP. I rented a suit from Zion Outfitters. I got on the 1st shuttle out of the visitors center at 8am. At the Temple of Sinawava by 8:25. I was the 2nd set of footprints on a fresh fallen show on my way out. I got through the farthest walkable part of Wallstreet that I could by 12. Stunning is an understatement! I saw absolutely no one until I turned around and then there was definitely a crowd. I got so lucky!!! Back to the shuttle stop by 2:30. I honestly took my time walking there and got all my pictures then. Definitely recommending shoe spikes for most of the snow covered rock portions of this also if you go in winter."
Heidi Jones
"Hiked the Narrows on Sept 11th. Started a little before 9. The first mile is paved sidewalks. The start of the river doesn't take long before you started get water over your knees/up to your waist depending how tall you are. There was some risks and warnings at this time because of algae build up from lack of rain. However the trek is beautiful, similar to slot canyons. Great set up for those of us that our less experienced and want to have the journey."
Julz Elmore
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Narrows bottom-up hike starts from the Temple of Sinawava, the last stop on the Zion Canyon Shuttle. You'll need to take the shuttle from the Visitor Center. [^Review] During peak season, private vehicles are not allowed on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, making the shuttle mandatory.
During most of the year, private vehicles are restricted on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. You must use the park's free shuttle system to reach the Temple of Sinawava, the starting point for The Narrows bottom-up hike. [^Review]
Yes, the Zion Canyon Shuttle is free to ride. However, lines can get long, especially during peak hours and seasons. [^Review]
Arriving at 11 AM means you'll likely encounter significant crowds. While still possible to hike, it's recommended to start earlier for a better experience.
While e-bikes are a popular way to explore parts of Zion, they are generally not permitted on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during shuttle season. The shuttle is the primary access method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, a permit is not required for the bottom-up day hike of The Narrows. Permits are only necessary for top-down hikes or overnight trips.
The Narrows itself is accessible 24/7, but access is dependent on the park's shuttle operating hours and the river's flow conditions. Always check the park's official website for current conditions and shuttle schedules.
The hike itself is free. The main costs are for park entrance fees, shuttle access (if applicable), and any gear rentals you might need.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, a waterproof bag for electronics, and wear appropriate footwear. Renting water shoes, neoprene socks, and a hiking stick is highly recommended. +1
Yes, you can hike The Narrows in winter, but it requires specialized gear like wetsuits and potentially shoe spikes due to cold water and icy conditions. [^Review]
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The full bottom-up hike to Big Springs can take 9 to 11 hours round trip. However, you can turn around at any point to shorten the hike.
Water depth varies significantly, from ankle-deep to waist-deep, and can even require swimming in some sections depending on conditions and your height.
The challenge comes from navigating the riverbed, which can be slippery and uneven. 'Wall Street' is a particularly stunning but can be deeper in sections.
No, there are no restrooms once you enter the river. It's advised to use the facilities at the Temple of Sinawava before starting your hike. [^Review]
The bottom-up hike is generally suitable for beginners, especially with rented gear. You can hike as far as you feel comfortable and turn back. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography
Every bend in the canyon offers a unique perspective. 'Wall Street' is iconic, but the interplay of light and water throughout the hike provides endless photographic opportunities.
Use a waterproof bag or case for your camera and phone. Be mindful of water splashes and submersion.
Early morning light can create dramatic shadows and highlights, while midday can offer brighter, more even lighting. Experiment to see what you prefer.
Drone usage is restricted in Zion National Park, including The Narrows, to protect wildlife and the visitor experience. Check NPS regulations for current rules.
Many popular shots focus on the towering canyon walls, the reflections in the water, and hikers navigating the river.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
The primary costs will be the park entrance fee and transportation to the trailhead. Utilizing the free park shuttle is the most economical way to reach the Temple of Sinawava. [^Review] While renting gear is highly recommended, compare prices between outfitters. If you have sturdy closed-toe water shoes and a walking stick from previous adventures, you might save on rental fees. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the most dramatic lighting. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating The Narrows: Gear and Preparation
Beyond gear, understanding the shuttle system is key for accessing the trailhead at Temple of Sinawava. Arriving early, ideally before 9 AM, is a recurring tip to avoid the peak crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
While the bottom-up hike doesn't require a permit, it's always wise to check the official Zion National Park website for any alerts or changes in conditions before your visit. +1Remember to pack waterproof bags for your electronics and essentials, as getting wet is inevitable. Using the restrooms at the Temple of Sinawava before you start is also a crucial tip, as there are no facilities within the canyon itself. [^Review]
The Narrows Experience: What to Expect
+1 Once in the water, the depth can vary significantly, from ankle-deep to waist-deep, and sometimes even requiring swimming depending on the season and recent rainfall. A particularly famous section is 'Wall Street', where the canyon narrows considerably, and the walls soar hundreds of feet above. The bottom-up hike to Big Springs is approximately 8.9 miles round trip and can take anywhere from 9 to 11 hours to complete.
+1 However, visitors are encouraged to hike as far as they feel comfortable and turn back at any point, making it adaptable for various fitness levels and time constraints. The experience is often described as challenging yet peaceful and moving, offering a unique connection with nature. +1While the hike is free, the visual rewards are immense. The interplay of light and shadow on the sculpted sandstone, the sound of the flowing river, and the sheer scale of the canyon make it an unforgettable adventure.
Many visitors consider it a bucket-list item, appreciating the unique environment and the sense of exploration it provides. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit