ST. GEORGE — The Narrows in Zion National Park is closed until further notice due to high water from snow run-off and changing conditions, said Jonathan M. Shafer, Zion National Park public affairs specialist.
The Narrows is the area in the Virgin River within the park featuring walls 1,000 feet tall and sometimes only 20 feet wide. It is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park.
“It’s hard to predict how long this year’s closure might last, but it’s helpful to see information on our website for past years to get some perspective,” Shafer said.
This year, the Virgin River is running high due to snowmelt. According to the park’s website, “The Narrows and all routes that exit through it remain closed until the volume of water is below 150 cubic feet per second (CFS) for 24 hours. The Riverside Walk is still open.”
Shafer said the water level fluctuates significantly each year and can even change day to day. It depends upon factors like rainfall and snowmelt. Walking is tricky when the river runs below 70 cubic feet per second (CFS). The water level can be knee-deep, which causes walking to be slippery. The river bottom also becomes slick and water can be waist-deep in some areas in The Narrows.
According to the website, when the current goes above 70 CFS, walking against the current becomes challenging and can rise to mid-thigh level. Pools can become chest-deep. If the water flow goes to over 150 CFS, The Narrows will be closed to all travel. The Narrows also closes when the National Weather Service issues a flash flood warning and remains closed for two hours after the warning is lifted.
Park rangers urge visitors to be extra prepared for The Narrows when it opens by bringing the proper gear, warm clothing and dry bags.
“Due to the risks of a hike like this, proper preparation is imperative, both for your safety and enjoyment,” Jonathan Fortner, park ranger, said. “‘Narrows’ means traveling upstream through the Virgin River on uneven, slippery and rocky river boulders.”
Fortner recommends hikers wear closed-toed shoes and use a walking stick. Visitors’ feet will be wet since they will be walking in the river most of the hike and not on a regular trail. Bringing an extra layer of clothing is recommended even when the weather climbs over 100 degrees. He advises non-cotton clothing; polypropylene and wool are ideal for their insulating benefits even while wet.
“This narrow section of the canyon usually stays cooler than the rest of the park,” Fortner added.
The water in The Narrows is frigid after the spring snowmelt and is at a high level. He cautioned visitors to be ready for flash flood potential in The Narrows. The afternoon is when thundershowers are most likely throughout the year. Flash floods are often hazardous to those hiking in slot canyons like The Narrows.
“The river can quickly turn powerful with rushing water, doubling and tripling in volume,” Fortner said. “Even when you are prepared, things can change quickly. Be aware of any changes in water clarity and increased river flow can go a long way in protecting your life.”
Additional tips for visitors hiking The Narrows include stopping by the restroom beforehand and packing out all trash. Fortner suggests stopping at the visitor center and speaking with a ranger for the most up-to-date information about the flash flood potential.
Most people start their hike from the Temple of Sinawava, access it through the Riverside Walk and hike upstream. Then they turn around and hike back down to the Temple of Sinawava, according to the website.
If visitors only hike The Narrows upstream as far as Big Spring, they don’t have to obtain a permit. The website also states, “Doing the hike this way allows you to see some of the canyon’s most spectacular and narrowest parts.” The hike can be an hour long in the river or as far as Big Spring, which is strenuous and a 10-mile round trip.
Another choice for hiking The Narrows is from Chamberlain’s Ranch to the Temple of Sinawava. This 16-mile through-hike of the Virgin River requires additional transportation to the Chamberlain’s Ranch trailhead.
The best time to hike The Narrows is usually in the summer and early fall when the water is warmest and the level is lower than other times. But, the website cautions, this is also the time of year when storms can cause life-threatening flash floods.
The site also advises that winter and early spring bring cold water and high water levels. The Narrows may be closed during springtime when snowmelt raises the river over 150 CFS. During autumn, the weather may stabilize, but the days are shorter and water temperature drops.
Another option for park attendees who do not go into the river at The Narrows is the paved, wheelchair-accessible Riverside Walk. This trail is one mile from the Temple of Sinawava.
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