Digging through our archives we found a couple of videos we took while hiking in Zion National Park.

Here is what the National Park Service says about hiking the narrows:  “The Virgin River has carved a spectacular gorge in the upper reaches of Zion Canyon: 16 miles long, up to 2,000-feet deep, and at times only 20 to 30-feet wide. The Narrows, with its soaring walls, sandstone grottos, natural springs, and hanging gardens can be an unforgettable wilderness experience. However, it is not a hike to be underestimated.

Hiking The Narrows means hiking in the Virgin River. At least 60 percent of the hike is spent wading, walking, and sometimes swimming in the river. There is no maintained trail because the route is the river. The current is swift, the water is cold, and the rocks underfoot are slippery.

Flash flooding and hypothermia are constant dangers. Good planning, proper equipment, and sound judgment are essential for a safe and successful trip. Your safety is your responsibility.

A permit is required for the 16-mile top-down hike through The Narrows. A permit is not required for hiking The Narrows from the bottom up.”

We hiked (or attempted to hike) the Narrows from the bottom up.

Part 1 –  we are very excited about our new adventure and ready to go.

Part 2 – after a couple of hours hiking – we decide it is time to head back.  The hiking was pretty tough; the river was full of rocks and you had to move very slowly and cautiously.  All in all though, we saw amazing scenery, had a great workout and an excellent experience.  You just have to remember if you hike 2 hours in, you have at least a 2 hour hike to get out!