Zion. Narrows Trail

OUTDOOR AFRO will be joining us!

The indians call the canyon through which it runs
"Mu-koon'-tu-weap" or Straight Canyon. Entering this, we have to wade upstream; often the water fills the entire channel, and although we travel many miles, we find no flood plain, talus, or broken piles of rock at the foot of the cliff. The walls have smooth, plain faces and are everywhere very regular and vertical for a thousand feet or more, where they seem to break back in shelving slopes to higher altitudes; and everywhere as we go along we find springs bursting out at the foot of the walls, and, passing these, the river above becomes steadily smaller; the great body of water, which runs below, bursts out from beneath this great bed of red sandstone; as we go up the canyon, it comes to be but a creek, and then a brook.

• John Wesley Powell, describing the Zion Narrows hike, 1872

Day Hike from the Bottom
The most popular option, due to its simplicity and moderate physical commitment. Hike up the river as far as Big Springst for half-day turn around and return the way you came. Visit Orderville Canyon too, if you have the time, makes a wonderful full-day hike We will have 2 groups, those hiking to Big Springs and those going all the way to Orderville Canyon.

Day hiking from the bottom does not require a permit.

**Things to Bring

Lunch and plenty off fluid to hydrate (coconut water, gatorade and more water)

Tools
**Towel to dry off
**Poles - A hiking staff or hiking poles are invaluable for maintaining balance while hiking in the river. Downhill ski poles work fine, but they take a beating and sometimes snap.
FOOTWEAR - Imagine walking through knee-deep murky water with a bunch of roughed-up bowling balls hidden in the murk. This is what hiking The Narrows is like, and sandals, even Tevas or Keenes, do not provide protection for the feet. Specialized water shoes such as Five.Ten Canyoneers and La Sportiva Exum Rivers are by far the best, but any sturdy sneaker or light hiking boot that is made from 100% synthetic materials will work fine.
Neoprene socks or synthetic hiking socks work well.Neoprene socks provide warmth and padding, AND keep fine sand away from your
feet. Canyoneers and Exum Rivers can be rented in Springdale.
WEAR SHORTS/ OR TRUNKS
-LONG PANTS are never in fashion in The Narrows. Zion shops offer myriad options for quick-drying, synthetic hiking shorts; get some and you will be happy. Any trip through The Narrows is likely to include wading in water and your shorts will get wet.

Shirts and Sweaters - Some people find the classic cotton t-shirt works well in the middle of the summer, but most times of the year, hikers will enjoy a quick-drying, lightweight synthetic top such as those made from Patagonia's Capilene. All hikers should bring a synthetic sweater to ward off the chill. Even in the hottest weather, it is cool and damp the Zion Narrows hike and a bit of warmth can be very welcome. Through hikers will want to carry a warm hat.

KEEPING STUFF DRY- Anything valuable - wallet, camera, car keys - ought to be fully protected from immersion, as even the most nimble hiker can trip and fall into the river at any time. Those with a river-running background will have drybags or Dry Kegs to use, or these can be purchased for about $25.00 at many outdoor stores, including those in Springdale. The frugal hiker can make do with large plastic bags - use the thicker, trash-compactor bags - double sealed. When using plastic bags, it is important to get everything INSIDE the pack - plastic bags on the outside quickly spring leaks.
Pack Light - For all Narrows trips, keep the pack as light as possible. The rugged terrain and in-stream hiking exact a toll on the over-burdened. A water shoe or pair of cheap flip-flops are nice for loafing around and letting your shoes dry out.