One of Zion National Park’s most popular attractions is an area known as “The Narrows.” This is a section of Zion Canyon where a river bed is surrounded by steep rock walls. The Virgin River and its tributaries have etched this landscape for thousands of years, and their work continues as they further erode the sandstone of the area.

This canyon network stretches from the entry in Zion Canyon on the south end to the north end at Chamberlains Ranch. This trek spans 16 miles, and it is rather grueling despite the fact that little elevation is gained since hikers must walk on river bed rocks that are uneven and slippery with algae. With such conditions, hikers need sturdy shoes that can get wet for hours; many people also bring hiking sticks to help provide stability. Also, since water is typically knee to waist deep, warm clothing and wetsuits are needed from November to April since the water is cold enough to cause hypothermia.

Getting to The Narrows is easy as the trailheads are at the end of the main roadway in Zion Canyon and at Chamberlains Ranch northeast of the park. During summer months -- the ideal season to hike here -- the national park’s shuttle stops at the Zion Canyon trailhead frequently from the early morning into the early evening. All visitors can drive to the trailhead in private cars during winter months when there are less visitors in the park.

Visit our Zion Rock and Mountain Guides homepage to learn more about hiking The Narrows and the tours and equipment we offer. We also host guided tours in many places throughout the Zion National Park region with other activities like canyoneering and climbing.