The Narrows

[Showered and enjoying beers while we wait for an early dinner at the restaurant next to the brew pub]

Up at 5:30am, biked (~1/2mi) to the Visitor Center to catch a shuttle at 6:20am. We asked an attendant where we could lock our bikes and he encouraged us to use the racks on the shuttle bus and take them with us, then bike back down after our hike. Well... why not?!

Bus dropped us at Temple of Sinawava at 7:00 and we were on the trail at 7:10. Traffic on the trail was light and we were able to separate from other groups, which made for great photo opportunities. We didn't realize what a treat this was until the trip down.

The first mile of the hike is on a paved trail. The rest is spent mostly walking in the shallow Virgin River - or along rocks on either side as the width of the canyon permits. We had rented special water/hiking boots and neoprene socks. We weren't sure if they were necessary, but once we hit the river we knew we had made the right decision. And our hiking poles were essential.

First portion of the trail

Last 'dry' spot before entering the river

We had never hiked in running water before - other than occasionally crossing a stream. It was at the same time exhilarating and nerve-racking. Some of the rocks were very slick. At times it was hard to see the bottom. And in narrow sections, the water was running fast.

You can hike up to an additional 4 miles in the river without a permit. We'd read that the last 2 miles were particularly beautiful - and less crowded - so, of course our plan was to hike the whole thing. 

Early morning sun starting to hit the canyon

At times it got a a little deeper :)

The water was cold, but refreshing - especially after 3 days of 105+ weather. As anticipated, it got prettier the further we went up-river.

Waterfalls

Massive overhang at a bend in the river

A narrow bend

My fearless companion

The deepest spot was at a narrow gap were a large rock blocked much of the path. We had to remove our packs and I shuttled them overhead while the water came up almost to my armpits. Karri was able to climb over some rocks along the edge and only(!) go in to her waist. 

We hiked about 5 miles total to the end of a stretch known as Wall Street - would have needed a permit to go further. We stopped and enjoyed an early lunch before heading back down.

Lunch stop at the end of the line

Working our way back down - sun moving overhead; that's Karri with the red pack

Our fashionable - and very useful - rental boots!

Mid-day with gorgeous skies overhead

After about a mile hiking back down, we started to run into more people heading upstream. After 2 miles, it was starting to get crowded and you had to choose your route carefully to avoid crossing paths. After 3 miles, there was a mass of humanity. People were everywhere - and still coming up the canyon in droves. We frequently had to wait for the path to clear - or just blast down the middle of the river, which we did several times. 

We were exhausted by the end. Hiking in the water was tough and we were both tense from trying to avoid slippery rocks - and people. But it was so worth it. Certainly one of the most unusual hikes we've ever done, and one of the most scenic. Definitely a must do in Zion - as long as you can beat the crowds.

The bike ride down was tougher than yesterday. We were exhausted, it was hot from the early afternoon sun and the wind was blowing in our faces for long stretches. It was still beautiful, and a fun way to end a great adventure.

Stopped at camp to grab clean clothes. Biked to town to return the boots, take a shower (a nice luxury that the town has clean public showers) and head out to dinner at the pub. 

Planning on a relaxed morning before we pack up and head to Bryce Canyon NP. Might do a quick bike ride... or may just sit in camp and drink coffee!

Another awesome day. Zion is amazing. Highly recommend!

Song spot: Interesting day. Dylan kept a persistent grip in the morning, this time with 'The Times They Are A Changin' . An encounter on the river with an unhappy couple reminded me how lucky I am and brought John Prine's 'Inspite of Ourselves' :) to mind. The rest of the day was filled, apropriately, with Talking Heads 'Take Me To The River'.

Hiking: ~10mi (7+ of which was in/along the river)

Biking: 9+mi