Hiking Zion's Narrows in the Winter Wilderness

As winter blankets Zion National Park in soft layers of snow, the Narrows beckon with heightened enchantment, becoming an irresistible haven for winter hiking enthusiasts visiting Southern Utah. In this guide, we'll delve into the essentials and expert tips for an unforgettable winter journey through the iconic slot canyon, exploring both the bottom-up and top-down approaches.

Gear Up for the Chill:

Winter conditions in the Narrows demand careful consideration of your attire. Equip yourself with insulating layers to combat the cold, and opt for waterproof and insulated boots to navigate icy waters. Essential accessories like gloves, a beanie, and wooden trekking poles for stability on slippery surfaces should not be overlooked. Avoid wearing cotton, as it retains moisture and water, potentially causing serious issues if your attire gets wet. Many places in Springdale rent winter Narrows gear, including river-specific boots, neoprene socks, dry waders/dry suits, splash jackets, and wooden hiking poles. Zion Cycles, among other places, allows you to pick up your gear the night before for an early start. An optional piece of gear in winter includes a helmet and microspikes. The helmet is optional due to the risk of large icicles falling during the winter, especially on the approach hike on Riverside Walk. Some bypass this area by entering the Virgin River early and skipping the complete Riverside Walk trail. In frigid winter months, this paved trail can ice over, making walking difficult. Microspikes can be rented at Zion Cycles, along with all the other gear you need.

Weather Wise:

Keep a vigilant eye on the weather forecast leading up to your expedition. Winter in the Narrows introduces the possibility of snowfall and colder temperatures. Being well-informed about the weather ensures that you're adequately prepared for the conditions you might encounter. Snowfall doesn’t equate to closure; in fact, hiking the Narrows in the snow can be quite pleasant. However, if rain is in the forecast, it's best to check with the park regarding the possibility of flash flooding.

Adapt to Shortened Daylight Hours:

Winter days come with reduced sunlight hours. Maximize your time by starting your hike early in the day. Completing your trek before dusk is advisable to ensure a safe return, especially considering the challenges posed by the colder season. The Narrows has considerably less traffic during the winter, so you don't necessarily have to get up early and start your hike early in the morning to avoid crowds. However, sticking to morning starts is recommended to get the most daylight possible.

Understanding River Conditions:

The Virgin River can present added challenges during winter due to lower temperatures. Stay informed about the river conditions and exercise caution. If water levels are higher than usual or if conditions are deemed unsafe, consider adjusting your plans accordingly. This is particularly important towards the end of winter and the beginning of spring when the snow starts to melt.

Capture the Magic of Winter:

Embrace the unique beauty of the winter landscape in the Narrows. With frosty scenes, potential icicles adorning the canyon walls, and a tranquil ambiance, the season offers a distinct and magical perspective. Bring along your camera to capture these unique moments. The Narrows hike is only about 70% in the river. As you hike, you will traverse the river along the rocky banks of the Virgin. There are plenty of dry places to set up your camera to capture stunning pictures of this winter wonderland.

Embracing Solitude:

One of the perks of winter hiking in the Narrows is the reduced number of visitors. Revel in the tranquility and solitude, allowing for a more intimate connection with the natural wonders surrounding you. The quieter trails create an opportunity to appreciate the serenity of the environment. Most hikers will stop at the end of Riverside Walk; this is where the Narrows starts. You will receive many encouraging cheers and also confusing looks as you take your first steps into the Narrows.

Exploring from Bottom-Up:

Ninety percent of all Narrows hikers will opt for the bottom-up approach, starting your adventure at the Temple of Sinawava and hiking upriver 5 miles to Big Springs. This route provides a gradual introduction to the stunning Narrows, with opportunities to witness towering canyon walls and navigate the gentle flow of the Virgin River.

During winter, you do not need to take a shuttle to the trailhead. You can drive your vehicle into the main canyon and park at the Temple of Sinawava (shuttle stop 9). This area fills up quickly, so it's advisable to arrive early. If not, you will have to park down-canyon at the other shuttle stops and hike up, which can add miles to your day. Another way to get to the Temple of Sinawava is to rent an eBike and ride up to the Narrows. This will be about an 8-mile ride from Springdale and is a very popular option in the warmer months.

Exploring from Top-Down:

Choosing the top-down approach means embarking on a more challenging adventure, starting at Chamberlain's Ranch. Chamberlain’s Ranch is about a 1.5-hour drive from Springdale, with the last half of the trip on gravel/dirt roads. During the winter months, this road can be impassable due to heavy snow or rains. It’s best to check with the Wilderness Office on current road conditions. Due to the nature of starting this hike, this route offers a more secluded and less crowded experience, allowing you to witness the Narrows' beauty unfold in reverse order, leading to the iconic Wall Street section and ultimately ending at the Temple of Sinawava 16 miles later. This option is not for beginners and must not be taken lightly; the chance for hypothermia is real, and all precautions must be taken into account. All top-down hikers will need to apply for a permit with the Zion National Park Wilderness Office. You can apply for a One-Day Through Hike Permit; the Overnight Permits, which allow you to camp at one of the designated campsites along the river, are not available during the winter as there is not enough daylight in the day to complete the hike. One thing to note is that you cannot start campfires in Zion’s backcountry, so you will need to find other ways of staying warm and getting dry.

Conclusion:

Winter transforms the Narrows into a secluded wonder, offering hikers a unique opportunity to witness this iconic slot canyon in a whole new light. With thoughtful preparation, the right gear, and an appreciation for the frosty beauty of the season, your winter adventure in the Narrows promises to be a truly extraordinary experience. So, heed the call of winter, embark on this frosty exploration, and create lasting memories in the heart of Zion's enchanting Narrows. At Zion Guide hub we specialize in guided Zion Narrows tours. If a guided trip with local, expert guides is more your style, be sure to learn more about our family-friendly Narrows tour. We also offer a number of different Zion tours for a variety of ages and experience levels. Learn more today!