26. How long does the hike take?

The Narrows Bottom-Up Hike takes anywhere from 2 to 10 hours, but most people spend 4-6 hours in the river. The Thru-Hike takes one long day (10-14 hours) or two moderate days (8 hours each) to complete.

27. How do I get to and from the Narrows?

Bottom-Up Hikers: During high season (April – October), Bottom-Up hikers ride the free Park shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava. From November thru March, Bottom-Up hikers are free to drive their own vehicles to the trailhead.

Thru-Hikers: Reserve a commercial shuttle or arrange your own shuttle to Chamberlain's Ranch. Most feel a commercial shuttle is worth the money, saving them a 3-hour round-trip journey and some logistical headaches. Click here for directions to Chamberlain's Ranch.

28. Do I need a permit to do the hike?

The Bottom-Up Narrows Hike does not require a permit. Thru-Hikers must purchase a permit at the Visitor’s Center inside Zion National Park. Alternatively, those planning ahead can secure a limited number of permits on-line.

29. Where do I go to the bathroom in the Narrows?

Peeing: Pee onto sand or gravel, when possible. While peeing in the river is ecologically sound, it is somewhat offensive to those hikers downstream of you. Please avoid peeing on green vegetation, as the acidity of human urine kills plants.

Pooping: All solid human waste must be carried out of the Narrows. Bring a plastic bag and toilet paper in case you need to poop while in the Narrows.

30. Do I have to hike from the top-down to spend the night?

Yes. Bottom-Up hikers are not permitted to camp in the Narrows.

31. Are there any restrictions on group size in the Narrows?

Those hiking Bottom-Up have no limit on their group size. Park rules limit Thru-Hikers, however, to parties of 12 or less.

Reserve a NPS Backcountry Permit Online