Highlight • Rest Area
Flash Flood Expectation Board
Hiking
4.9
(67)
Running
5.0
(1)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Zion National Park
Tips
December 25, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Flash Flood Expectation Board
4.9
(27)
446
hikers
6.04km
02:00
280m
280m
The Narrows: Bottom-Up Day Hike offers an unparalleled journey directly through the Virgin River, surrounded by Zion National Park's colossal Navajo sandstone walls. You'll wade through water, navigate a riverbed of slippery rocks, and marvel at features like Mystery Canyon Falls and the incredibly narrow 'Wall Street' section, where the canyon walls soar up to 1,000 feet high. This 3.8-mile (6.0 km) hike with 922 feet (281 metres) of elevation gain is rated easy, but the unique terrain makes it a memorable adventure.
To plan your visit, remember that water levels in the Virgin River fluctuate, so checking conditions and flash flood risk is crucial. The bottom-up route does not require a wilderness permit up to Big Springs, offering great flexibility to turn back whenever you wish. The estimated duration for this section is just under 2 hours, but allow more time to soak in the scenery and navigate the challenging riverbed.
This trail is renowned as the quintessential Zion experience, immersing you in a slot canyon like no other. The constant presence of the river, the intricate rock formations carved by millennia of water, and the dramatic interplay of light and shadow create a profound sense of awe. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a truly unique and accessible adventure within the park, offering a different perspective than traditional dry trails.
4.3
(7)
153
hikers
14.7km
04:46
650m
650m
Embark on the Zion Narrows Bottom-Up Day-Hiking Route, a moderate 9.2 miles (14.7 km) journey that takes you directly into the Virgin River. You will gain 2118 feet (646 metres) in elevation over an estimated 4 hours and 45 minutes, surrounded by towering sandstone walls. As you hike, the canyon narrows dramatically, sometimes to just 20 to 30 feet wide, creating a unique sense of immersion. Look for iconic sections like Wall Street, where the canyon walls soar up to 1500 feet high and are incredibly close together. This route offers a truly distinct hiking experience within Zion National Park.
Before you head out, always check for flash flood warnings and current river flow conditions, as the Narrows can close due to high water levels or the threat of flash floods. This is an out-and-back route, giving you the flexibility to turn around at any point you choose. The furthest you can go without a wilderness permit is Big Springs, which is about 5 miles upstream from where you enter the river. Planning ahead ensures a safe and enjoyable adventure.
This hike is notable for its unique environment, where the river itself is your trail. The dramatic, cathedral-like setting is formed by ancient geological processes, with the Virgin River carving through the sandstone over millennia. This creates a powerful sense of being deep within the earth, surrounded by natural grandeur. It is a truly special way to experience the raw beauty and scale of Zion Canyon, setting it apart from many other trails in the region.
4.7
(39)
488
hikers
4.47km
01:38
230m
210m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,490 m
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