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4. Hiking Supplies
You will need a pair of waterproof hiking boots or canyoneering boots with good ankle support. You should be able to drain the water out of them quickly. Neoprene socks are more comfortable in the water.
- Trekking poles or a hiking stick will help you hike on the uneven, wet terrain.
- Bring a jacket as an extra layer. The water and high canyon walls create slightly cooler conditions.
- Take sunscreen. Even if you start as early as possible, you will eventually be hiking in the sun. Pack it with your First Aid Kit. Pack it all in a waterproof bag.
- You will also need at least one gallon of water per hiker each day and appropriate snacks. (Don’t forget camping supplies if you spend the night.)
5. Hiking Tips
- Avoid wearing anything cotton since being in the cool water can cause your body to lose heat faster than it can produce it. Wear clothing made of synthetic fibers or even wool.
- Eat high-energy food along with the water.
- Check the weather report before you go. If the National Weather Service issues a flash flood warning or the Spring flow rate is too high, The Narrows will close. You don’t want to get to the trailhead and find out the trail’s closed.
- Don’t think you can avoid getting wet. You can’t. While there are portions of the trail that are actually on the shore, generally within the first two miles, you will be in the water.
- Don’t bring anything you don’t want to get wet. Make sure your phone has a waterproof case if you must bring it. A GoPro with a waterproof case is also good but leave your DSLR camera at home.
- Don’t jump! Yes, it might sound stupid but authorities report that the most common injuries are reportedly lower leg fractures caused by jumping from rocks.
- Don’t Stop! Hiking the Narrows is not only the most popular hike but it is also the busiest; at least it might seem that way. Keep going though as not everyone who visits benefits from the veteran advice of your rovin’ writer.
- Many people don’t take shorter preparatory hikes prior to taking this trek and turn back within the first two miles. Once you hit your stride–and mile three–you and your hiking buddy could have the trail all to yourself. Many tourists are not hikers.
- Follow the “Leave No Trace” outdoor ethics. Pack out all your waste. Leave no trace of your presence, so everyone can continue to enjoy the area. If you need a refresher, check with your local Scout troop or review the principles online.
- You will find only one restroom here. It is located at the park’s Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop. Be sure to make use of it prior to beginning your hike.
- If you are ambitious enough to want to hike the entire trail, good for you! However, don’t forget that you will need a permit to do so. The price is $15.00 per person and $20.00 each for a hiking party of three to seven hikers.
- As this goes to press, no one is permitted to drive on the actual road that leads to the trailhead. Only shuttle buses are allowed here. Privately-owned vehicles are not permitted in this park when a shuttle bus is running.
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