ST. GEORGE — Part of The Narrows was reopened in Zion National Park on Sunday, allowing visitors to access the hike from the Temple of Sinawava.
Update 4 p.m. The top-down hike in The Narrows was reopened at 7 a.m. Wednesday after the flow rate was below 120 cubic feet per second for 24 hours. The current flow rate is 110 CFS.
The hike reopened at 6:30 p.m. after the Virgin River’s flow rate went below 150 cubic feet per second for a full 24 hours, park spokeswoman Aly Baltrus said.
The hike is open from the Temple of Sinawava to Big Spring, about a 10-mile hike round trip.
While the hike is open, the water is still flowing fast at 130 CFS, and those who choose to hike it will experience high waters and a strong current, likely having to wade in waist-deep water and swim in some places, the park said in a Facebook post.
If the flow rate exceeds 150 CFS, the park will close The Narrows again.
The top-down hike from Chamberlain’s Ranch to Big Spring will remain closed until the water flow rate has been below 120 CFS for 24 hours.
“No idea when it will be open for top-down. The river needs to be below 120 CFS for 24 hours, and there is still snow melting at the headwaters,” Baltrus said.
The Narrows are the most difficult to hike right after they’ve reopened after spring snowmelt. The water is not only high, but cold.
Park officials are warning visitors to be safe if they choose to hike The Narrows and to be prepared by bringing the proper gear, warm clothing and dry bags.
Read more: Officials warn of dangerously high flowing Zion Narrows after 3 people rescued from river
The current weather and flow rate of The Narrows can be found on the U.S. Geological Survey’s website.
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