The Narrows in Zion is a breathtaking trail that had been in the upper part of my hiking bucket list for years until I finally conquered this trail in 2019. But it’s not all about the thrill (which is guaranteed!). It’s also about preparation, specifically, what to wear hiking in The Narrows.
The Narrows is one of America’s wildest hikes and it can be demanding, with its slot canyons as narrow as 20 feet wide and walls towering up to a thousand feet high. You’ll be navigating through chilly river water, rocky terrains, and possibly flash floods.
This guide covers all you need to know to gear up properly to make sure you enjoy every minute of your hiking trip.
How to Dress for The Narrows? A Year-Round Checklist
Let’s dive right into the must-have clothes for your hike in The Narrows, no matter the season.
- Sturdy Water Shoes: The riverbed is rocky and uneven, so bring a pair of durable water shoes with good grip.
- Quick-Drying Hiking Pants or Shorts: Regardless of the season, you’ll be wading through water. So, opt for pants or shorts that are light, durable, and can dry quickly.
- Synthetic or Wool Base Layers: These materials do a great job at wicking moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout your hike.
- Insulating Mid-Layers: During colder months, a fleece or down jacket can provide the extra warmth you’ll need.
- Wool or Synthetic Socks: Just like your base layers, these materials will help keep your feet dry and blister-free.
Sturdy Water Shoes
The riverbed in The Narrows is often covered in algae and loose rocks, making it easy for even the most experienced hikers to lose their footing.
Hiking water shoes make you stay upright and avoid any nasty falls with their excellent grip. They’re also designed to dry quickly and you won’t have to deal with squelchy, uncomfortable feet for hours on end.
They offer much-needed protection against sharp rocks and other potential hazards hiding below the water’s surface.
You’d find them equally useful for other water-intensive hikes like The Subway or Orderville Canyon in Zion.
Quick-Drying Hiking Pants or Shorts
You’ll be probably wading – or even swimming – through the Virgin River for most of the hike. This is why you must invest into quick-drying pants or shorts.
They are not your ordinary trousers. They’re specifically designed with materials that repel water and dry out quickly. This feature makes them perfect for water-intensive trails like the Narrows, where you’ll be knee-deep (or sometimes waist-deep) in water most of the time.
Aside from the obvious comfort factor, there’s also a practical reason for this choice of gear that I found very useful. The temperature in Zion can fluctuate quite a bit. It can be warm during the day but drop significantly at night. Wet clothing can make you feel colder and you don’t want to be shivering while trying to enjoy the stunning beauty of Zion’s towering sandstone walls.
Pro tip: look for pants or shorts with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. They’ll protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, which is especially important in the exposed desert environment of Zion.
Synthetic or Wool Base Layers
Both synthetic and wool materials have an excellent ability to wick moisture away from your skin. As you sweat (and trust me, you will), these materials actively move the moisture to the outer surface where it can evaporate. This keeps you dry and comfortable, which is especially important for those longer hikes.
If you’re moving through the chilly waters of the Virgin River, you need something that will retain warmth even when wet, and that’s where wool shines. Wool has the unique ability to retain up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet, keeping you surprisingly warm.
On the other hand, synthetic materials dry faster than wool, which can be a real advantage if you’re taking a break or setting up camp for the night.
Another location in the Narrows where these base layers prove their worth is the Wall Street section. It’s the narrowest part of the canyon and one of the most photographed. Here, the river runs wall-to-wall, and you’ll definitely appreciate the moisture-wicking properties of your base layers.
Insulating Mid-Layers
The Narrows is not your average hiking trail. It’s a slot canyon, which means it doesn’t get a lot of sunlight. That makes it significantly cooler than the surrounding area, especially during the cooler months or early mornings and late evenings.
An insulating mid-layer is designed to trap heat and keep you warm. It’s like a personal, portable heater.
Where exactly in the Narrows will this come in handy? Well, pretty much everywhere. Whether you’re starting from the Temple of Sinawava or hiking up from Big Springs, an insulating mid-layer is going to be useful.
There’s one spot in particular where you’ll be glad you have it: Wall Street. This is the narrowest part of the canyon, where it’s deepest and darkest. Here, the temperature can drop significantly, making your insulating mid-layer a real lifesaver.
Wool or Synthetic Socks
Wool socks and synthetic socks are the two main contenders for hiking in the Narrows. Both have their unique features and advantages, but the choice ultimately boils down to your personal preference and the specific conditions you’ll encounter on your hike.
Let’s discuss the benefits of each type:
- Wool Socks: Wool is an incredible natural material. It’s warm, breathable, and most importantly, retains heat even when wet. This makes wool socks a fantastic option for those chilly waters in the Narrows. They also help prevent blisters, thanks to their cushioning effect. SmartWool is a popular brand among hikers, known for its high-quality wool socks.
- Synthetic Socks: Synthetic socks, typically made of materials like polyester, dry quickly and are durable. They’re a good option if you plan on hiking during warmer months or if you’re someone who tends to sweat a lot. A bonus point – they’re usually less expensive than their wool counterparts.
Pro tip: Always carry an extra pair of socks with you. Changing into a dry pair can make the journey back more comfortable.
Hiking in The Narrows: How to Dress for Each Season?
Let’s get into the specifics of how to dress appropriately for each season, so you can enjoy your hike to the fullest.
Spring
Springtime in Zion’s Narrows is a unique experience, with the weather being a mix of cool and warm temperatures. The river can still be cold, and the flow rate varies, so it’s important to dress appropriately.
What to wear hiking there during spring?
- Quick-Drying Synthetic Top and Bottoms: Start with a lightweight, quick-drying synthetic top and bottoms. Avoid cotton since it takes longer to dry when wet. As the day warms up, you can remove layers to stay comfortable.
- Closed-Toed Shoes or Sandals: You’ll want closed-toed shoes that drain well and have a good grip. The terrain can be wet and slippery, so proper footgear is a must. Some hikers prefer trail shoes or water sandals depending on the flow rate during their hike.
- Rain Jacket and Fleece Top: A light rain jacket can come in handy if you encounter a sudden spring shower. A light fleece top will keep you warm during the cooler parts of the day.
- Extra Footwear: Cheap flip-flops or camp shoes are great for letting your hiking shoes dry out at camp.
- UPF Long-Sleeve Shirt: Lastly, remember to pack a UPF long-sleeve shirt to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
Spring runoff can cause high water levels. If the water levels are too high, the park authorities might close the trail. Always check the conditions before you head out.
Summer
It’s really hot in The Narrows in the summer. The temperatures soar up to 110ºF in July and August. And it’s not just the heat you need to be aware of, but also the fluctuating weather conditions. One moment it’s a scorching sun, the next there could be a flash flood.
Here’s your go-to list for your summer adventure in The Narrows:
- Lightweight, Quick-Drying Clothing: You want clothes that can handle the heat and dry quickly if they get wet. Think synthetic or merino wool materials.
- Hiking Boots or Closed-Toe Sandals: These will protect your feet on the rocky terrain and in the water. Make sure they have good grip for slippery surfaces!
- Sun Hat and Sunglasses: They are your best friends in the desert. They’ll protect your eyes and face from the intense sun.
- Swimwear: If you fancy a dip in the Virgin River to cool off, it’s a smart move to have swimwear under your hiking gear.
- Rain Jacket: Remember those sudden weather changes I mentioned? A lightweight rain jacket can be a lifesaver.
The key here is to stay comfortable and safe. Don’t overload yourself with unnecessary items, but make sure you’re prepared for the elements.
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind in the summer:
- Start early in the morning before the heat becomes unbearable. It’s cooler, quieter, and you’ll get to watch the sunrise light up the canyon.
- Stay hydrated! Carry plenty of water with you. The park’s bone-dry climate will make you thirstier than you think.
- Don’t forget to pack some high-energy snacks. You’ll need the fuel for your journey.
- Always check the weather forecast and flash flood potential before heading out.
Fall
Fall in Zion can be a bit of a mixed bag. During the day, temperatures can reach up to 66 degrees Fahrenheit, but they can also drop to around 39 degrees. That’s quite a range! So, having layers that you can add or remove as needed is important.
Now, here’s what I’d pack:
- A lightweight, moisture-wicking base layer. This will keep you dry and comfortable, even when you’re working up a sweat.
- An insulating mid-layer, such as a fleece jacket. This will provide warmth when the temperature drops.
- A waterproof outer layer. While fall is typically dry in Zion, it’s always good to be prepared for unexpected showers.
- Hiking pants. These should be durable, quick-drying, and allow for plenty of movement.
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. The terrain in the Narrows can be challenging, and you’ll likely be walking through water at times.
- Warm socks. Opt for materials like wool, which retain heat even when wet.
Winter
Despite average temperatures hovering between 50 and 60 degrees, the canyon itself often feels 15-20ºF cooler than in the main part of Zion National Park. So, you’ll want to dress appropriately to stay warm and dry.
Here’s a list of items you should consider packing:
- Thermal base layers: These will keep your core warm when the temperature drops.
- Waterproof outerwear: A waterproof jacket and pants will protect you from any unexpected rain or snow.
- Insulating mid-layers: Fleece or wool sweaters are great for providing additional warmth.
- Warm socks: Go for wool or thermal socks to keep your feet cozy.
- Water-resistant hiking boots: You’ll need these for navigating wet and potentially icy trails.
- Gloves and a hat: These are vital for protecting your extremities from the cold.
- Dry bags: To keep your essentials dry in case of sudden rainfall or if you slip in a stream.
Remember, the canyon receives very little sun in winter, which makes it feel colder than it actually is. With water temperatures around 38 degrees, it’s important to stay as dry as possible.
Pro tip: winter is a fantastic time to hike the Narrows because it’s less crowded than during the summer months. You can enjoy the stunning beauty of the canyon in relative peace.
What Accessories You Need for Hiking in The Narrows?
Hiking Poles – Do You Need Them for The Narrows?
Yes, you definitely want to consider packing a pair of hiking poles for The Narrows. They provide balance, support and help with navigation.
- Balance: The Narrows involves wading through a river, sometimes waist-deep, with a rocky and uneven riverbed beneath. Hiking poles provide that extra point of contact with the ground that can make all the difference in maintaining balance.
- Support: Hiking poles can reduce the impact on your knees, especially when you’re hiking for hours at a stretch. They give your arms a good workout too!
- Navigation: Sometimes, the water in The Narrows can be murky, making it hard to see what’s underfoot. A hiking pole helps you navigate by giving you a feel of what’s beneath the water before you step on it.
Look for hiking poles that are sturdy, lightweight, and have comfortable grips. Telescopic poles are a great choice as they are adjustable and easy to pack.
Waterproof Backpack
Look for a backpack with sealed seams and waterproof zippers for the best protection. Consider the comfort and fit because you’ll be carrying it for several hours.
Pro Tip: Always pack your items in individual waterproof bags inside your backpack. This double layer of protection ensures your stuff stays dry even if water does get into your backpack.
Hydration Pack
A hydration pack allows you to sip water easily without having to stop and rummage through your bag for a water bottle.
I always bring the hydration pack with me because this way my hands are free to navigate the terrain, use hiking poles, or snap pictures.
Some might argue that a regular water bottle does the job just fine. But when you’re carefully navigating a tricky part of the trail and balancing on slick rocks, there’s a risk of dropping your precious water supply into the Virgin River.
Make sure you fill your hydration pack with enough water to last your hike. The Narrows doesn’t have any refill stations along the way. When you’re halfway through a 16-mile trek, the last thing you want is to run out of water.
Headlamp
The headlamp illuminates your path, helping you avoid potential hazards like slippery rocks and sudden drops. Thank you captain obvious!
But another and less obvious reason why I brought the headlamp with me is that The Narrows are home to various nocturnal creatures that you might stumble upon during your hike. A headlamp allows you to spot these creatures from a distance, giving you ample time to steer clear.
Pro tip: Go for a headlamp with adjustable brightness settings. It’ll help you preserve battery life on longer hikes and provide just the right amount of light when you need it.
Is The Narrows in Zion Worth it?
From the perspective of someone who’s traversed many trails, The Narrows in Zion National Park is an absolute must-do. It offers a unique hiking experience as you wade through the Virgin River and walk between towering canyon walls, some reaching up to 1000 feet tall.
The sheer majesty of those canyon walls, closing in around you as you hike, is an experience like no other. I felt as if nature has sculpted a path just for me, and with every step, you’re privy to a new, breathtaking view that’s both humbling and awe-inspiring.
The real narrow part of the trail doesn’t start until 2-3 hours into the hike, but even before that, the stunning scenery is sure to keep you captivated!
Is The Narrows Hike Scary?
The Narrows hike can be intimidating to some, especially if you’re not fully prepared for what lies ahead.
You’ll be hiking through the river, with towering canyon walls on either side, and the majority of the time, you’re in water that can be quite chilly. The rocks can be slippery, and there’s little sunlight reaching the canyon floor due to the high walls.
However, this doesn’t have to be a scary experience. If you come equipped with the right gear and take necessary precautions, you can safely navigate through the Narrows.
If you’re someone who’s afraid of heights, you might find trails like Angel’s Landing more daunting. But The Narrows? It’s more about wading through water and navigating slippery rocks than dealing with steep heights.
Final Thoughts
Dressing appropriately for this hike is more than just a suggestion. Your outfit has to be both comfortable and functional. Opt for quick-drying clothes to tackle the watery terrain, and don’t forget the waterproof footwear.
Finally, my personal advice? Take your time. The Narrows is not a place to rush through. Soak in the views, capture those memories, and savor every moment.
So, go on and conquer the Narrows in Zion! You’re well-equipped with the right knowledge and gear. Now, all that’s left is for you to step out and make some unforgettable memories.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can You Hike The Narrows in Sneakers?
No, you shouldn’t hike The Narrows in Sneakers.
The Narrows is a unique hiking experience, with most of the trail being water-based. This means that you’ll be walking, and sometimes even swimming, in the Virgin River.
Now, imagine doing this in your regular sneakers. They’d get soaked in no time, and we all know how uncomfortable squelchy shoes can be. Not to mention, the risk of slipping on slippery rocks increases significantly when wearing sneakers.
Instead, I would recommend investing in a pair of sturdy, water-resistant hiking boots. These will provide better traction and keep your feet relatively dry.
Can You Wear Crocs to Hike The Narrows?
No, you shouldn’t wear crocs to hike The Narrows. They can be very slippery and do not provide enough protection for your feet. I recommend hiking shoes that are in good condition but you do not mind getting dirty or damaged.
Can I do The Narrows in Sandals?
While it’s technically possible to do The Narrows in sandals, it’s generally safer and more comfortable to opt for appropriate hiking shoes or specific water shoes. Hiking in the river can be challenging, and there’s a risk of rolling an ankle or smashing a toe. Sandals or other open-toe shoes will not provide the necessary protection for your toes.
Do You Need a Wet Suit for The Narrows?
Yes, you may need a wetsuit for hiking The Narrows, especially if you’re planning to hike during the colder months. The necessity of a wetsuit can depend on the water temperature and the duration of your swims.
