USA Zion Narrows in May

Spectacular hike through the Narrows of Zion Canyon. The hike does not require a permit but water shoes, neoprene socks, and at least one trekking pole is highly recommended. The hike crisscrosses the (very cold) Virgin River which is occasionally wall to wall in the canyon. Check the weather forecast before entering the canyon. Flash floods are a real concern and have killed many people here. From the trailhead at the “Temple of Sinawava” (at the end of the Zion Canyon scenic drive), walk 1 mile on the paved trail. Then enter the Narrows and hike up canyon as far as a spot called “Big Springs”, then turn around. Hiking upstream beyond Big Springs is not permitted. Most people hike to a section called “Wall Street” and turn around (about 5 miles R/T). A side trip off the main canyon up Orderville Canyon (before Wall Street) is absolutely worth a 20-30 minute detour. The “bottom up” hike does NOT require a permit. The “Top Down” hike is 16 miles (25.7 km) long and is usually done as an overnight backpack with designated campsites. The Top Down hike DOES require a permit.

Go as early as possible to avoid the crowds. This is a very popular hike. Disneyland crowds. Seriously. The light in the narrow canyon is constantly changing but is generally better mid-morning or late afternoon for photography. You must weigh less than optimum early morning light vs. aforementioned crazy insane crowds after 9 AM. A wide angle lens, tripod, and polarizing filter is very useful. Hiking the Narrows is wonderful during the winter with very few people in the canyon and during the coldest months, there are frozen waterfalls throughout the canyon. Dry suits, wetsuits, boots, neoprene socks, etc. are a must during the winter and can be rented at numerous nearby outfitters.

Springdale, Utah is the gateway to Zion NP. Except for a few weeks in the winter, you must park (primarily) at the visitor center and ride the free shuttle to the last shuttle stop at the Temple of Sinawava. Unfortunately, Zion NP is very busy almost year round, so the VERY large parking lot at the visitor center is frequently full by 8 AM.