The Narrows
Zion National Park, UT
THE NARROWS
A BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE NARROWS
The Narrows at Zion National Park are perhaps the most famous location in the park and is viewed by many as one of the very best hikes in Zion. If I had time to do only one thing while in Zion, without a doubt, it would be to hike the Narrows.
From a photographic standpoint, The Narrows are a cornucopia of incredible images. This hike is strenuous and demanding, but the dramatic patterns of the sandstone walls bathed by reflective light make for many unique photographic opportunities. A different view and photographic prospect greets you at each turn in the canyon.
Images and location summary by Tim Wier
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DATA POINTS INCLUDED WITH THE NARROWS SUMMARY
I would rate the difficulty of this trail as a 3 on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being most difficult). The Narrows is a 6-mile round trip hike through the knee-deep water of the Virgin River, where you are walking/hiking over bowling ball sized rounded rocks. For the hike in, you are walking upstream, which can be very taxing. The key to this hike is take your time, look for the easiest path, and always double check each step in high water areas.
Photography in The Narrows is all about colorful reflective light, the water flow, boulders, and the occasional tree. The reflective light changes during the day, as the sun moves across the sky, so a view on the way into the canyon will most likely be different on the return trip.
If you are going to include the water flow, most photographers get as low to the water as possible (as you feel comfortable) to create depth. Always remember to double-check each step while in the water when you are carrying your camera equipment. As we all know, water and electronics don’t mix…
You will mainly be shooting with a wide angle lens (16mm – 35mm).
4,515 Ft. Elevation
Other Resources Available with Membership
KMZ Trail File
Directions
Best Time of Day to Shoot
Best Time of Year to Shoot
Equipment Needed
Permits Required
Direction of Shot
Google Maps Birds-Eye-View
Number of Photographers to Expect
Cell Service
Overnight Lodging/Camping
Nearby Restaurants
Area Guides and Workshops
Other Resources
LOCATION SUMMARIES WRITTEN BY PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS
