Slot Canyons

This weekend I had an opportunity to journey up one of the most famous slot canyons in the world. The “Narrows” in Zion National Park is an opportunity to experience nature in a very different way. Since this was our first trek into this canyon that is the home to the Virgin River, we decided to approach it from the Temple of Sinawava and head upstream to Wall Street.

A slot canyon is tricky because it can be submerged in water continuously or experience flash flooding within minutes. Thus it is important to listen to the local weather and be prepared for immersion in constant water.

The day before we took a leisurely trip into Zion National Park, which turned into a reconnaissance missing for our ascent on the “Narrows”. First, we investigated the Shuttle Schedule. You can catch a shuttle from outside the Park or in the Park at various locations. It took 40 minutes from the Zion Visitor Center to the Temple of Sinawava. Next, we focused on gear. Since this was a spontaneous decision, we had not packed appropriately for a 4 hour hike in the Virgin River. Luckily, Zion Adventure Company has everything you need to have a safe adventure. This includes a short but 5 star video about this slot canyons and safety. Then the staff assists you with selecting gear. No pressure – just good information. We rented boots, neoprene socks, poles and dry pants for our personal comfort. We also rented a dry bag for items that we did not want wet due to wading in water up to our belly buttons.

Here’s a link to Zion Adventure Company’s website: www.zionadventures.com/zion-narrows/introduction/what-is-the-narrows/ ">

Just a short note that I was very apprehensive of needing the dry pants until I was in the water. The water temperature was 45 degrees and early in the river you are up to knees and deeper. The pants kept me warm but more important, when I was swept against the canyon walls or a rock, my legs were safe from scratches. It was well worth rental!