Virgin, N. Fork, Utah, US

1) Chamberlain Ranch to Temple of Sinawava (Zion Narrows)

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Photo of Nick running the 15 footer by Curtis Martin taken 04/24/09 @ Low

Gauge Information

River Description

While this 16 mile stretch of river is certainly a class III run at some levels, it is about as committed of a run as you can have, and is not for beginners.  Solid class IV boating skills with a reliable roll, rescue skills are a must.  While at lower water levels, taking a class III boater down the Narrows in a ducky may be appropriate, more skilled boaters should be on the trip to insure safety.

Also, all boaters should be in good enough physical condition to drag/carry their boats for 8 miles down to Deep Creek (see flow info.)  Fatigue can definitely be an issue.  An overnight trip would be one way to allow for this, although the permit office has not always allowed for this, possibly due to flash flood potential.

The only way out of the canyon is down.  You'll need a boat for that, unless you want to swim for a couple miles or wait a few weeks for the water to drop.  If you lose your boat, you'll be waiting for Search and Rescue or if your lucky another groupwith a ducky you can jump onto.  This could take 2, 3 or even more days.  Keep the possibility of this happening as low as possible by being completely comfortable any rapids you might confront.  This is not the place to test your boating skills.  DO NOT attempt to hike out of the canyon.  It may look possible from the river, but after the first 2 or so miles, it is not.  Your route will cliff out on you if you attempt to hike out.

Be prepared. Bring break-down paddles, boat-patching material, lots of food, water filter, plenty of extra dry clothes in a dry bag, extra throw rope, a pin kit extra food, fire starting material, first aid gear. Plan on spending the night, just in case. Even if you don't need any of the gear, you very well may meet a group of boaters that does, or helping another group out may lead to you not being able to get out before dark.

Flash floods may also be a concern in this river.  Flash floods through the narrows can carry flows of several thousand cfs, and despite being in a boat, you would not want to be in the narrows for this.  The backcountry desk should be able to provide information about flash flood danger. 

Permits are required.  They are free at the backcountry desk at the visitors center in the Park (permit information).  Be sure to get a red pass so you can park your car at the takeout.  It is 25 dollars to get into the park per car.  Plan on getting your permit the day before.  During late april/early may when the Narrows runs, the backcountry desk is open from 8am-5pm.  Getting your permit at 8am will not provide you with adequate time to do the run that day, and the flows for the first 8 miles will suck even more.