The Narrows – Zion National Park

Equipment

Due to the unique nature of this hike, I had researched extensively prior to our trip regarding what equipment is recommended for The Narrows. There were many consistent suggestions but after experiencing the hike, I feel that the equipment you need depends on when you go and how long you are going (a half-hour in vs an all-day hike).

• Trekking Poles – This will make your hike so much more enjoyable – and safe. We highly recommend bringing them, or at the very least, rent a hiking stick from a local Springdale outfitter. We saw many people without poles that were struggling and or falling as they tried to navigate in the current and over slippery, algae-covered rocks.
• Clothing – We hiked the Narrows on a historically hot day – it was 105 degrees – but even so, the temp in the canyon was easily 10-15 degrees cooler, which was nice. We hiked in shorts, shirts, and sun hats but we each packed a hard shell (rain), and a midweight layer, just in case. If hiking in cooler temps, a wet/dry suit may even be warranted – the outfitters in Springdale rent them.
• Water Sandals or Shoes – Really, anything that you don’t mind getting wet, protects your toes and handles well in water will be fine. We used Keen Newport H2O water sandals, which worked great. In cooler water conditions, neoprene socks would probably be desirable – you can rent them from outfitters in Springdale.
• Pack or Dry Bag– bring one that you don’t mind getting wet. We put our food, water, extra layers, emergency supplies, and trash in them. If you are bringing anything that you don’t want to get wet such as a camera, wallet, etc., a dry bag is recommended.
• Food/Water – I guess this is dependent on how far/how much time you plan on hiking. If you only going to hike the Riverside Trail or a very minimal amount of the Virgin River, you might not need much. Regardless of what our plan is, we always bring food (usually Clif Bars), a water bottle/reservoir, and a water filter with us. Remember, you need to pack out ALL of your waste!
• First Aid Kit – Bring one – we have one packed no matter where we go. We ended up using it when our youngest, Makena, got some sand stuck between her sandal and her foot and created an abrasion/blister that became painful. I ended up covering the wound with Moleskin and wrapping in first aid tape. Remember, bring something that can deal with the water – a standard band-aid or similar is going to come off quickly.
• Emergency Supplies – No matter where we are planning on hiking or for how long, we always have our emergency supplies with us. This consists of a first aid kit, headlamp, fire starter, multi-tool, emergency blanket, water filter, food (usually energy bars).

We happened to arrive in Zion during a historic heatwave in late June 2017; it was 108 degrees the day we arrived and was 105 the day we hiked the Narrows. This was a blessing in disguise – it made the canyon hike very enjoyable; the water temp was great and the canyon was noticeably cooler than the main canyon area by our campground and the visitor center. However, I suspect that if it was 80 degrees in the main canyon, it might be quite cool in The Narrows.

I will reiterate that if you are planning on hiking the river, trekking poles will make your hike much more enjoyable. We spoke to a few Rangers that had remarked that it was common to see twisted ankles and broken or sprained fingers from this hike. Trekking poles will help with this.