Zion Narrows Bottom-Up Day-Hiking Route

The time it takes depends on how far upstream you go. Most day hikers turn around at Big Springs, which is about 5 miles (8 km) upstream from the river entry, making it a 10-mile (16 km) round trip. This can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours, depending on water levels and your pace. You can turn around at any point, making it adaptable to your desired duration.

The Narrows is unique because the Virgin River is the trail itself. You'll be wading, and sometimes swimming, upstream through the river. The riverbed is uneven, slippery, and rocky, with sections of sand and loose boulders. Water levels vary greatly, from ankle-deep to waist or even chest-deep, especially in narrower sections. The initial mile from the Temple of Sinawava is a paved path called the Riverside Walk before you enter the water.

While generally rated easy to moderate, the Narrows can be challenging for beginners due to the uneven, slippery riverbed and walking against the current. It's an out-and-back route, so you can hike as far as you feel comfortable. Proper gear, like sturdy water shoes with good ankle support and a wading staff, is essential to aid balance and make it more manageable for those new to river hiking.

You'll need sturdy, closed-toed water shoes with good traction and ankle support, as the riverbed is very slippery. A wading staff is highly recommended for balance. Dress in quick-drying clothing, and consider bringing layers, as the canyon can be cooler. For colder months, wetsuits or drysuits may be necessary. Don't forget plenty of water, snacks, a waterproof bag for electronics, and a first-aid kit.

The entire canyon is a spectacle of towering sandstone walls. As you venture upstream, you'll encounter dramatic narrows, including the iconic 'Wall Street' section, where the canyon walls are incredibly close. Other highlights include Mystery Canyon Falls, Mystery Canyon, and Big Springs, which is a common turnaround point for day hikers. You can also take a side trip into Orderville Canyon for different scenery.

The best time to hike is typically late spring through fall (May to October). Summer offers warmer water temperatures, but also higher flash flood risk. Spring can have cold water and high flow rates from snowmelt, potentially closing the Narrows. Fall brings cooler temperatures and beautiful light. Always check flash flood warnings and river conditions before you go, as the Narrows can close due to high water.

The route officially begins at the Temple of Sinawava, which is the last stop on the Zion Canyon Shuttle. Private vehicles are not allowed on the scenic drive for most of the year, so you'll need to park in Springdale and take the free shuttle to the trailhead. Parking in Springdale can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so arrive early.

Yes, you will need to pay the entrance fee for Zion National Park. This fee covers entry for 7 days. For the bottom-up day hike up to Big Springs, a wilderness permit is generally not required. However, if you plan to hike beyond Big Springs or do the top-down route, a permit is mandatory. Always check the official NPS website for the most current regulations and permit requirements: nps.gov.

No, dogs are generally not allowed on the Zion Narrows Bottom-Up Day-Hiking Route. Pets are restricted on most trails within Zion National Park, with the exception of the Pa'rus Trail. Service animals are permitted, but emotional support animals are not considered service animals by the NPS.

For the bottom-up day hike, you can typically go as far as Big Springs without needing a wilderness permit. This point is approximately 5 miles (8 km) upstream from where you enter the river, making it a 10-mile (16 km) round trip. Beyond Big Springs, a permit is required.

Yes, the Zion Narrows Bottom-Up Day-Hiking Route shares a significant portion of its path with the 'Zion Narrows Top-Down Hiking Route' and 'The Narrows Day Hike Section'. The initial part of the hike also follows the paved 'Riverside Walk' before you enter the river. Additionally, you can access 'Orderville Canyon Day Hike Section' as a side trip from the main Narrows route.