If you’re looking for a unique slot canyon hike, The Narrows is the place for you. Located on the North Fork of the Virgin River, the Narrows is upstream from the main canyon and is one of the most spectacular hikes in the Zion Canyon and the Colorado Plateau.
The Narrows is a slot canyon hike
There are several reasons to hike The Narrows. Summer is ideal because temperatures are warm and the shuttles run late into the night. This allows you to complete a day hike, but summer is also the busiest time of year for hiking. Flash floods are a possibility during this time, so plan ahead and bring warm layers.
If you plan to hike The Narrows in one day, be aware that it is very dependent on the level of water and road access to Chamberlain’s Ranch. For instance, during the months of November and December, access to the trail was limited. In addition, in the years of 2012 and 2015, there was heavy snowfall that delayed the road access until early July. You should check the road conditions several months before your hike date to make sure that it is open.
The Narrows can get flooded at times, so make sure to pack sunscreen and long-sleeved shirts to protect your skin from the sun. You should also bring plenty of water and snacks for your hike. Also, remember to bring a cross-body camera strap if you plan on taking photos. There are dry patches of ground where you can set up a tripod.
Flash floods are a serious danger in The Narrows, and they can happen quickly. Flash floods can cause a wall of water to appear, and the only way to escape it is to scramble to higher ground. Fortunately, there have only been a handful of fatalities in recent decades, but flash floods can happen without warning, and the best way to avoid them is to be prepared.
You should plan on spending at least three hours on this hike. The Narrows is usually closed from mid-March until mid-May. However, the date will depend on how much snow melt and spring run-off is occurring. If the stream level is too high, the National Park Service won’t issue a permit for hikers.
It is wheelchair accessible
A major boost in funding for accessibility improvements at Bakers Narrows Provincial Park will be made next summer. The upgrades will improve access to the park’s main beach and the yurt area. While exact dollar amounts have not been released, these improvements will make the park more accessible to people with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible yurts will also be installed at the park. Some yurts currently have ramps, but others require a flight of stairs.
Narrow wheelchairs have a narrow design and require a much smaller space than a standard chair. They are so narrow that they fit through most doorways that are not ADA-compliant. This is an important factor for people in wheelchairs. Narrows have minimal width, but are more universal than traditional wheelchairs.
It is a day hike
During the summer, the Narrows is packed with visitors and can be crowded, especially in the morning and afternoon. To avoid the crowds, hikers are advised to go early. The early morning hours are less crowded, and the water is not as fast as the afternoon. Hikers are advised to bring enough water and snacks to keep them hydrated. They should also plan a full day to enjoy the Narrows.
Despite its popularity, the Narrows hike is not without risks. The area is vulnerable to flash flooding, which occurs when heavy rains come down without warning in the area. Hence, it is essential to check the weather forecast and consult the ranger station beforehand. Also, if the rain is expected to fall, hikers are advised to get to higher ground as quickly as possible.
The Narrows can be accessed from several points. Many hikers choose to start their hike at Wall Street, but it is possible to turn back anytime after reaching this landmark. The Narrows is closed in the spring due to snowmelt and spring runoff, but it is still possible to hike in the winter. A wilderness permit is not necessary for the hike.
Hikers are recommended to wear lightweight clothing that will dry quickly. They should also pack a down jacket for when they stop for food. Mark and Kristen bring their usual gym gear for the hike, but they also pack a waterproof bag for their down jacket. However, they advise their clients to bring their own wag bag in case they feel the need to use the restroom.
Visiting the Narrows is a fantastic experience during the summer and fall months. The weather is nice and long days make it the ideal time to hike, but the danger of flash floods is still high. Those visiting the park during the summer should check the flood information beforehand. During this time, the park shuttles may be fewer than usual and water levels can rise suddenly.
It is closed in the spring
In the spring, the National Park Service closes The Narrows due to high water flows caused by spring snowmelt and runoff. Although the park remains open during other seasons, the Narrows are closed for several months. The closing time is generally between mid-March and mid-May, though it varies with the weather. During this time, the National Park Service will not issue permits to visit the Narrows.
Flows of the Virgin River fluctuate from year to year. At times, the flow can reach 150 cubic feet per second (CFS), closing The Narrows. This can cause treacherous walking conditions. In the spring, water levels are usually relatively low, but at times, the river is over 150 cfs and closing the Narrows is necessary to maintain the river’s level.
Hikers can access the Narrows by walking or taking a shuttle bus. The walk is 2.2 miles round-trip and takes around 20-25 minutes. The shuttle bus takes 40-45 minutes to reach the Narrows. This hike is not recommended in the rain. The Narrows is closed in the spring due to spring runoff and snowmelt.
Water levels in The Narrows are subject to flash flooding after storms. If a National Weather Service flash flood warning is in effect, the park will close the Narrows to all travel. The closure will remain in effect for two hours after the flash flood warning has passed. Therefore, visitors are advised to take all the necessary precautions before attempting the hike.
During the spring, snow melt generates high flows in The Narrows. However, temperatures can be cool in the slot canyon during this time. In June, the weather is pleasant enough to hike the entire Narrows Trail. The Narrows is also open during the summer, when daylight hours are longer. However, it is important to check the river level before beginning a hike because flash floods can be life-threatening.
It is open in the summer
June is considered the best time to hike the Narrows Trail, as temperatures are cooler and the daylight hours are longer. However, it is important to check the weather forecast to be sure. If flash floods are forecast, the Narrows may be closed. Flash floods are dangerous because the river can easily double or triple in volume.
The Narrows is closed during periods of high water flow in the Virgin River. The flow of the river depends on several factors, including rainfall and snowmelt. Flows can reach up to 150 cubic feet per second during spring snowmelt. This means that it can be dangerous to walk in the water if the water is more than knee-deep.
Although the summer is the hottest time of year, the Narrows Hike is still the best time to visit. While Zion can get very hot in the summer months, the water level in the Narrows is typically low, so it is safe to hike the trail without a swimsuit. Water levels in the Narrows are usually cool in early June, but warm up as the summer progresses.
Fall is another great time to visit the Narrows. Compared to summer, it’s not nearly as busy. However, the fall months bring cooler temperatures and lower water levels. During the fall, The Narrows are still busy, although it may be necessary to pack extra gear. Additionally, the days are shorter, which means less daylight for hiking.
During the winter, the Virgin River experiences the most rainfall from November to March. The nights are often below freezing. You can hike through the Narrows in the winter, but it’s important to visit the visitor center the day before the hike to rent the proper equipment. Since the water is colder in winter, a neoprene wetsuit is necessary. Moreover, a thick hiking stick is recommended to stay safe.
