Exploring Zion National Park was a bucket list item for me. I was so excited to cross it off my list and Zion did not disappoint. With so much to see in the park, I know that I will have to make another trip.
After leaving Bryce Canyon National Park, I headed west and further south to Springdale where Zion National Park is located. A popular hike in Zion is The Narrows, a section of canyon where you hike literally in the Virgin River. This is often referred to as one of the best day hikes, not just on the Colorado Plateau, but in all of North America. This reputation comes at no surprise because I can absolutely agree with the well-deserved accolades.
The Narrows can be hiked either as an up-and-back from the Temple of Sinawava or from the top down, the latter being a 16-mile journey. I decided to take the former, more popular route. As soon as you arrive at the river’s edge, you spend the rest of your hike in the wading in the water. Crowds are common in the beginning, but the further you journey the less people you encounter.
Be sure to bring the following on your hike: food, water, river shoes, trekking pole and a camera. Depending on the time of year you go, be prepared! I went during the summer months and I wore shorts and a tank. As I traveled deeper into the canyons, it got really cold. Even if it is 100º F when you begin your hike, temperatures will drop significantly as The Narrows narrow (no pun intended). Also, keep in mind that you will literally be IN the river the majority of the time.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast. Flash flooding is common in The Narrows and that is the last place you will want to be in the event of a flash flood! Don’t be alarmed if you hear a little bit of thunder and get a light drizzle. You only need to be a worried if it starts to downpour. Then, it’s definitely time to turn around and head back. 
A general rule of thumb when you should turn around and head back is once you reach Orderville Canyon. You will know you’ve reached Orderville when you come to a fork in the river. Orderville is to the right. Take a little trek up the canyon before turning around and heading back or continue on if you desire. Just remember to keep in mind what time you started the hike because it will take you about the same length of time to get back. The last thing you want is to be stuck in the canyons when the sun sets.
