Zion Narrows – Guided Hike and Picnic

The Zion Narrows guided hike and picnic offers adventurous visitors a chance to explore one of Zion National Park’s most iconic natural wonders. Equipped with specialized gear, participants embark on a scenic shuttle ride and hike the Riverside Walk before venturing into the Narrows itself. As they navigate the rocky river bottom and slick stones, they’ll encounter the dramatic canyon walls and challenging terrain that make this experience both exhilarating and unforgettable. After a well-deserved picnic lunch, the return shuttle provides an opportunity to further take in the park’s captivating beauty. For those seeking an adventure that showcases Zion’s natural splendor, this guided hike is not to be missed.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Guided Tours In Springdale.

Key Points

• Guided hike through the iconic Zion Narrows, including gear rental and transportation to the trailhead.
• Riverside Walk, a 1-mile paved path, providing scenic views before the challenging trek into the Narrows.
• Navigating the rocky river bottom and slippery terrain of the Narrows, with the use of trekking poles and waders.
• Enjoying a charcuterie board picnic lunch at the scenic Grotto setting, catering to various dietary needs.
• Return shuttle ride to the Zion Visitor Center, allowing for exploration of the park’s facilities and exhibits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meet and Gear Up

Participants meet at Zion Canyon Village (Shuttle Stop 1 on the Springdale Route) to gear up with the provided equipment, which includes canyoning boots, neoprene socks, trekking poles, and waders, before leaving any personal items in the vehicle.

The guided hike ensures everyone has the necessary gear to safely navigate the Narrows. Wearing the proper footwear and outer layers is crucial for comfort and stability while traversing the rocky river bottom and slick stones.

Transportation

Once everyone’s ready, they’ll board the Zion Canyon Shuttle for the 8-mile ride along the Scenic Drive to the Temple of Sinawava and the trailhead. The shuttle provides convenient transportation, allowing participants to sit back and enjoy the stunning canyon scenery.

The shuttle journey includes:

• Crossing the Virgin River and passing by towering sandstone cliffs.
• Glimpsing the iconic West Temple and other famous Zion landmarks.
• Arriving at the Temple of Sinawava, the starting point for the Narrows hike.
• Disembarking and making the short walk to the Riverside Walk trailhead.

With the shuttle, the group can focus on the adventure ahead without worrying about logistics.

Riverside Walk

From the trailhead, the Riverside Walk leads hikers along a paved, 1-mile path that follows the banks of the Virgin River. This easy, accessible trail provides a scenic introduction to the Narrows, allowing visitors to admire the towering canyon walls without venturing into the water.

Along the way, hikers will be treated to beautiful views of the river and the surrounding sandstone formations. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all skill levels, making it an ideal starting point for those looking to explore the Narrows.

With its gentle incline and ample shade, the Riverside Walk is a picturesque prelude to the more challenging trek into the heart of the Narrows.

The Narrows

After completing the Riverside Walk, hikers move on to the main event – navigating the rocky river bottom and slick stones that make up the Narrows. Trekking poles and waders prove invaluable as they cautiously make their way upstream, taking care with each step on the uneven terrain.

The Narrows section includes:

1. Wall Street – a narrow, vertical-walled section of the canyon.
2. Orderville Gulch – a brief visit, not permitted for hiking guides.
3. Challenging terrain with slippery rocks and unpredictable water levels.

The towering canyon walls close in, creating a truly immersive and awe-inspiring experience as they delve deeper into this legendary slot canyon.

An unforgettable trek through one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.

More Great Tours Nearby

Wall Street

As hikers navigate deeper into the Narrows, they reach a particularly striking section known as Wall Street – a narrow, vertical-walled passage that showcases the canyon’s immense scale and grandeur.

This iconic stretch features towering, sandstone cliffs that rise hundreds of feet on both sides, creating a sense of awe and wonder.

The river narrows significantly, and hikers must wade carefully through the swift-moving waters while taking in the breathtaking views.

This section of the Narrows is a true highlight, offering a profound connection with the natural world and a heightened appreciation for the power and beauty of this remarkable canyon.

Orderville Gulch

Hikers briefly visit Orderville Gulch during the Narrows hike, though guided tours aren’t permitted to explore this side canyon in depth.

This narrow, winding slot canyon offers a glimpse into the impressive geological features that define the Zion landscape:

• Towering sandstone walls rise up on either side, casting dramatic shadows across the water.
• Smooth, polished rocks line the river bottom, creating a challenging terrain for hikers to navigate.
• Ribbons of light filter in from above, illuminating the vibrant hues of the canyon’s layered strata.
• The sound of rushing water echoes off the canyon walls, creating a serene and immersive experience for visitors.

While not the primary focus of the Narrows hike, Orderville Gulch provides a tantalizing taste of the natural wonders that await further exploration in Zion National Park.

Lunch

Enjoying a charcuterie board picnic lunch at The Grotto, visitors can savor a selection of cured meats, cheeses, pickles, spreads, nuts, crackers, and fresh fruit.

This hearty and delicious lunch is provided as part of the guided Zion Narrows experience.

Catering to various dietary needs, the picnic includes vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, which can be requested with 48 hours’ notice.

The scenic Grotto setting offers a peaceful respite after the hike through the Narrows, allowing guests to refuel and recharge before the return journey.

This well-rounded lunch is a highlight of the guided tour, complementing the adventurous exploration of Zion’s iconic natural wonder.

Return to Zion Visitor Center

After the picnic lunch at The Grotto, guests catch the down-canyon shuttle back to the Zion Visitor Center, completing the guided Zion Narrows experience.

The return shuttle ride provides one last chance to soak in the stunning vistas of Zion National Park.

Once back at the Visitor Center, guests can:

1. Explore the interpretive exhibits and educational displays about the park’s geology, wildlife, and cultural history.
2. Visit the bookstore and gift shop to find souvenirs and mementos to remember their Zion adventure.
3. Utilize the park’s restrooms and other facilities before departing.

Guests can reflect on the incredible journey they just experienced in the Narrows and appreciate the natural wonder of this unique and captivating landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hiking Trail Pet-Friendly?

The Zion Narrows hiking trail is not pet-friendly. Pets are not allowed on the trail due to the fragile ecosystem and safety concerns for both hikers and animals. Guided tours also do not permit pets to join.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the guided Zion Narrows hike. The tour provider supplies a charcuterie board picnic lunch, which includes vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options if requested in advance.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Activity?

There are no strict age restrictions for this activity, but it’s recommended for children aged 10 and above who can handle the physical demands. The tour operator can provide guidance on the suitability for younger participants.

Is There an Option for a Shorter Hike?

There is an option for a shorter Narrows hike. Some tour companies offer an out-and-back hike up to 4 miles, turning around before the narrowest section. This is a good choice for those with limited time or mobility.

What Is the Policy on Cancellations or Refunds?

The policy on cancellations or refunds is typically flexible, with most tour operators offering full refunds for cancellations made within 48-72 hours of the scheduled activity. Some may also have options to reschedule the hike.

Recap

The Zion Narrows guided hike and picnic offers an unforgettable adventure through one of Zion National Park’s most iconic landscapes.

From the specialized gear to the stunning canyon vistas, this excursion immerses participants in the park’s natural wonders.

The picnic lunch provides a well-deserved break before the return journey, leaving visitors with lasting memories of their Zion experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: