Highlight • Canyon
Temple of Sinawava
Hiking
5.0
(94)
Cycling
5.0
(3)
Road cycling
5.0
(2)
Running
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Zion National Park
Tips
February 3, 2019
Hiking
•
June 16, 2019
Hiking
•
December 25, 2023
Hiking
•
Sign up for a free komoot account to get 2 more insider tips and takes.
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Temple of Sinawava
4.6
(65)
1,079
hikers
3.18km
01:06
150m
160m
If you're seeking a truly immersive experience into Zion's lush canyon environment, the Riverside Walk delivers. This moderate 2.0-mile (3.2 km) hike, with just 484 feet (147 metres) of elevation gain, guides you along the Virgin River, surrounded by towering red rock mountains and vibrant hanging gardens. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 5 minutes soaking in the dramatic scenery, where the canyon walls seem to close in around you, creating a unique, verdant corridor.
Accessing the Riverside Walk is straightforward, as its trailhead is at the Temple of Sinawava, the last stop on the park shuttle, where you'll also find restrooms and water. The path is mostly paved and flat, making it a fantastic family hiking trail suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, though some sections can be uneven or sandy. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in the late afternoon or early evening, and remember that warmer months are perfect for dipping your toes in the river.
This trail is not just a scenic stroll; it's also the famous gateway to The Narrows, offering a glimpse into one of Zion's most iconic adventures. Along the route, interpretive exhibits explain the canyon's geology and ecology, and you might even spot wildlife like mule deer or wild turkeys. It's a highly accessible and rewarding way to experience the natural features and unique ecosystem of Zion National Park.
5.0
(3)
22
hikers
33.0km
11:50
840m
1,450m
Embark on the Zion Narrows Top-Down Hiking Route, a challenging 20.5 miles (33.0 km) journey that takes you directly through the Virgin River. This unique "river-as-trail" experience involves hiking in water for much of its duration, gaining 2759 feet (841 metres) over an estimated 11 hours and 49 minutes. You will navigate towering canyon walls, with the canyon narrowing dramatically in sections like Wall Street, creating a truly immersive and cathedral-like environment.
Planning your visit requires careful attention to permits and conditions. A wilderness permit is mandatory for all Top-Down Narrows hikes, and these can be difficult to secure, especially during peak season. It is crucial to check weather forecasts for flash flood warnings and monitor water flow rates; permits are not issued if the Virgin River flow reaches 120 cubic feet per second or more. Be prepared for cold water temperatures in fall and winter, which may necessitate specialized gear like wetsuits.
This route is renowned as one of Zion National Park's most iconic slot canyons, showcasing the immense power of water erosion over millennia. As you progress, the scenery transforms, revealing numerous waterfalls and hidden side canyons carved into the rock. The journey culminates near the Temple of Sinawava, offering a profound appreciation for the natural forces that shaped this landscape.
7
hikers
4.47km
01:50
300m
150m
Embark on the Zion Narrows Bottom-Up Day-Hiking Route, a truly unique adventure where you hike directly in the Virgin River. This moderate route covers 2.8 miles (4.5 km) with an elevation gain of 986 feet (301 metres), taking about 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. You will navigate a riverbed of sand and boulders, wading through water that can reach ankle to waist-deep, all while towering Navajo sandstone walls rise dramatically above you, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere.
Before you head out, it is essential to check current water levels and any flash flood warnings, as high flow rates can make the hike dangerous and lead to closures. This bottom-up route does not require a wilderness permit, making it more accessible for many visitors. For better stability on the uneven riverbed, bringing hiking poles is highly recommended.
This immersive journey offers a distinct perspective of Zion National Park's incredible geology, allowing you to experience the iconic slot canyon from within. You will encounter stunning sights like Mystery Canyon Falls and pass through the dramatic 'Wall Street' section, where the canyon narrows to less than 20 feet wide. It is a popular choice for exploring the park's unique natural wonders.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,320 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Sunday 21 June
32°C
12°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December