Zion Narrows (Chamberlain Ranch to Temple of Sinawava)
Over the course of 13 million years, the Virgin River has carved through the red sandstones of Zion National Park to create some of the most unforgettable scenery in the National Park System. In fact, this very act of natural erosion is responsible for "The Narrows," which is one of the premiere hiking adventures in the United States, possibly the world.
Despite the obvious evidence of the erosive force of the river, the river itself winds peacefully through the canyon. Natural river processes proceed unimpeded, allowing for seasonal flooding and meander migration, vegetative recruitment, and plant succession.
Permits for kayaking through The Narrows will not be issued on the day of the trip and must be obtained the day before. An early start to this trip is needed. Permits for kayaking through the Narrows will only be issued if the flow of the Virgin River has stayed above 150 cubic feet per second for 24 consecutive hours. Group size limit for boating the Narrows is 6 people.
Kayak trips through The Narrows portion of the Virgin River should only be attempted by expert paddlers who are prepared to survive without assistance for multiple days. You should possess the skills to paddle class V Whitewater. At some flows, the rapids may qualify for an easier classification.
At flows less than 150 CFS, hiking is a popular activity in the Narrows
