How to make a canyon seem even smaller. Just add several thousand people. Having done many solo hikes & small groups, it's always a shock to get back to a busy place. It makes you yearn for the solitude all the more. When I'm alone on a hike, I feel embraced by nature, my senses seem more heightened & I'm aware of many small details. It's a powerful primal thing & I'm sure you guys understand it too when you get into these special places with very few or no one around. Thank you for these videos that help keep me sane in an insane world!
You're welcome. And with some time and space between this trip, we're ready to do it again. It's just that initial shock, like you said. I remember going through Imlay. About as rugged and wild as it gets. Last rappel was into the narrows, but it was late enough it wasn't too crowded. We got back to the Visitor Center and my buddies wanted to go to the Bar to get food. I walked in and it was standing room only. I couldn't take it. It was overwhelming after being out there for the whole day. I had to walk outside and wait for them to get their food.
I love the honesty and seeing that someone else doesn’t view the Disneyland atmosphere as the epitome of paradise. Keep up the quality camera work and humorous inserts. Thanks for sharing.
Excellent camera work. I am no expert but if you can get a wider angle camera with a little more panorama, at least in some of the shots that would be nice. But I’m not criticizing this was just a joy to watch. Thank you so much Arizona clan.
@@WifingAround absolutely! I have the pad as well. Doesn’t even compare with a chair, but better than nothing on the really long trips where weight really counts. I’ve only done one trip where I didn’t bring it.
The narrows is so busy, there are so many other hikes outside zion that everyone overlooks, I was over zion and now I want to go back, that is how it gets people, you hike once and can't stop going back! In April, my family and I did a backpack trip in the Kolob Canyons part of the park, it was so amazing and now I really just want to see the narrows again! I just love your videos!
Holly ! crowded like champs elysées ! I was lucky to be there twice with few people in it.First in1997 and second time in 2008 so wonderfull an good shots. Thanks for this 3rd time.
About to do this hike with my brother in October. Loved watching the whole thing and you all both have great personalities. I also feel much more at ease after watching and preparing for an overnight trip! Will definitely be wearing the right socks haha. Thanks for such a great video
Thanks! May be a little chilly up top at Chamberlain Ranch when you're starting, so bring layers. I think it was 20~30 cfs during this trip. We recently did it again (you can check my more recent uploads. It's within the last 3~4) around 40~50 cfs. Just know that it gets a LOT slower due to all the rocks and walking in the river once you hit the first campsite. That walk from campsite 1 to 12 seemed to take forever this last trip. The narrows themselves were a lot less crowded though. This video was over a holiday weekend when the park was at peak capacity.
@@JerryArizona I've been a Realtor since I was 18. Thank God I had some common sense and saved for a rainy day per it's pouring here in Arizona! Btw. We have an extra spot for Carlsbad state beach for a week starting July 4th if your interested?! Timmy C Arizona
Hi guys, only just found your channel... couldn't but not subscribe. I'm an oldtimer Englishman who relives past adventures through channels like yours. Love the interaction with your lovely wife.
Beautiful!! Well done ! Great edit ! I was thinking no El Patio in Zion . That was funny ! Some day I’m sure we will run into you there ha ha . We camped the west end of Rim Memorial weekend and hardly saw anyone. They must have been all hiking the narrows ha ha ! Road tripped it to Indiana to visit Grandkids. Got a good hike day under 5 miles in New Mexico of 1-40 . Off can be off road as we are over-landing it . Probably be back in AZ next weekend. Thank you Tina also ! Takes two to Tango !
Enjoyed watching this video. Done this hike many years ago the exact way you did it. Take the van to the top then hike down. I think it was in the early 1980's. Our campsite wasn't as far as you went, I think we were maybe mid-way thru the sites, dont remember the campsite # but we had to hike UP aways and to the right of the river. We were pretty high up looking down at the river. We had some rain in the night but not too bad. I think it was spring. One thing we did different from you was when we did the deep water crossings, I never took my backpack off. I had an old 4100 cubic inch Kelty frameback but inside of it I had a big waterproof rubber drybag that I had most of my stuff in. I trapped a bunch of air inside of the bag along with my equipment and clothes and so when I got into the water I found I was completely buoyant and could swim along just fine. The last three miles coming out we ran into just a few hikers, nothing like what you experienced with the crowds of people. But this was the 80's, before Zion got too popular. We also did Angels Landing a couple times back then and we had that trail pretty much to ourselves. It seems Zion has turned into a real madhouse. Still, a beautiful place I would love to go back someday but would have to figure out the best time of year to avoid the crowds.
Well, this was on a holiday weekend. Just happened to be when I could get permits. It's crowded, but not usually this bad. Almost had the whole canyon to ourselves on day 1. Main tricks to beat the crowds are taking a route that requires a rope or a backpack and avoiding the holidays. Crowded, but still amazing.
oMG thanks for showing this video because after hiking UP the narrows a few years ago, I swore I would never go back and my sister almost disowned me. It was sooooo, crowded, I hightailed it as fast as I could and we got about six miles up with no break Sis was pissed by then. Took a little break, more people kept coming and I promised her going back down that we would take an ample break. Going back it got even worse. Trying to dodge some people, I fell in the water and was horrified that even a drop got in my mouth, (you had to have been there and seen the people) I’m not usually scared of water in my mouth. I didn’t t stop until we got to the shuttle stop. I love nature and hate crowds. People were literally 2 miles upstream with floaties and bbq’s! Eweee. I guess doing the trip you took is off my bucket list. Thanks for letting me live vicariously through your adventure.
Thank you for another amazing adventure to someplace I have always wanted to hike. There weren’t nearly As many people as when I was there ages ago. Too bad I didn’t do it then. Thank you for sharing such a great trip. You two are really troopers and inspiring to watch! The National Park Service does a great job of managing so many people who want to enjoy such a beautiful place.
I've been back several times since this trip. This was by far the busiest I've seen it. That's what you get for going on a holiday weekend, but that's when I could get permits. We need to stop recording reactions right after something like this because if there's a bad experience right at the end, that's what's at the forefront of our mind at the time. Now that it's been a while, all I remember are all the miles we had to ourselves and what an amazing experience it is. Don't let this video sway you from going. We're definitely doing this one again.
this is the best video i've seen so far. finding a backpacking overnight video on the narrows is tough! thank you! i'm heading there in september, so excited!! Good to know that a 90-60 forecast actually has way cooler temps!!
Truly an inspiring Video, well produced. The canyon just gets better and better as you go down. I think I could deal with the crowds for a couple of miles. Nice to see people from all over the world.
@@JerryArizona I wanted to let you know that we did the hike and it was amazing! We ended up floating our packs with the pack cover technique and it worked perfectly, so thank you for that! We didn't want to wait in line to try to avoid the swim. I ended up making a video to help others as well. Thank you!!
Wow that looks like so much fun, I look forward to visiting that area as well, Love your wifes humor lol, has me and my wife laughing, Love her! And your guys sense of people is spot on! lol You guys looks like you would be awesome friends to have.
Tina, one of your comments helped me so much! One of my trekking poles broke, and my husband and I are planning on visiting the Narrows in June. I was trying to decide if I should buy new poles, or just bring the good one that I have, as I typically only hike with one pole. Your comment that you were glad you were using both poles, when you typically only hike with one, was much appreciated! I'm definitely going to get a new set before heading to Utah! Thank you!
The last 3 miles were a buzz killer. We try to stay away from popular spots on holidays. It's hard to stay away from people, they are everywhere. We're in Northern Wisconsin and most tourists are gone now. Very very quiet in the woods. Love it! Started snowing as I type this. Thanks for your sharing your amazing adventures 😀
With a little time and distance, I don't really mind the last bit. We had miles of the canyon virtually to ourselves. And it was a holiday weekend, which I'd normally avoid in Zion, but when you get Narrows permits, you go. Luckily, with a backpack or a rope and helmet, we can experience parts of these parks that avoid the crowds. At least for most of the hike, anyway.
did this with some friends about 3 months ago but we did it as a day hike it took us about 15 hours, but started way to late and got to the car at 11. We did the full hike and the views, shear cliff and breathtaking formations is something to never forget. Any one that has the opportunity to do this, you need to take it
Good informative video, I did The Narrows over the past weekend with some friends. We got camp site 3 which was also a good location, up elevated away from the river. I did some digging up for info on the for sale signs at the start of the narrows. Luckily all that got resolved, it sounds like some long winded private land ownership/public access deal. The feds, state, county as well as private donors collectivity worked out a deal with the land owner where the land owner will retain ownership of the 880 acres, but there is a permanent conservation easement for public access to The Narrows. I think the shuttle is the way to go. My group had left a car in the visitor parking lot then drove to the trail head and left a 2nd vehicle there. When we got done with The Narrows and got back to the parking lot, we still had to all the way back up to the trail head to get the other vehicle which turned a long two days into a longer two days. I'd recommend paying the shuttle fee.
Oh man. I would not have wanted to hike back to the car! 3 was a good spot. They all were. It WAS really nice having the water right there though. I heard they figured out the private property before this trip. Actually had to cancel plans for a while because of the dispute. I was surprised to see the sign still up.
The first 85% the narrows was so awesome.... then the muddy disneyland..haha, not as much. But still a great adventure! Campsite 12 is now going to be booked;)
Campsite 12 is definitely where it's at. And it's funny. The more days that go by, the less I remember the crowds at the end and the more I think about the first 15 miles of awesomeness.
We were there last week and got up at 4am for parking spot and waited in shuttle line for 90 minutes. They were short of drivers One was just lost from COVID. The crowds took away from the ambiance for sure. Lesson learned is that if you like somewhere, don’t tell anyone about it. Love your video and chairs
Hi love you trails we don't have that kind of trail in Ireland. Was in the USA some time ago San Francisco and around bus tour.. My tip is if your in deep water is to double up to green bin bags in your back pack then put all of your clothing avoid sharp objects in clothing then when packed this will keep your clothing dry plus if the water get very deep you can use the back pack as a floating device to keep you a float. Plus keep your clothing dry. Better still get one of the heavy duty bags with the turn clips and keep every thing dry and you up on the water. Love the video..
The Narrows is great as a backpacking trip, right? That is pretty close. Maybe we'll run into each other eventually. I run into way more people that watch this channel out there than I ever thought I would.
Geez. Coincidentally skimming comments again and I realized it was you, man. I didn't realize that when I originally commented. My bad! I think when you ran into us in Buckskin it was one of the first times anyone recognized us. It would've been crazy to run into you a second time. Although it's sounding likely if you were here 6/14. We were just two weeks ahead of you.
Just found your channel. I love the video. My husband and I want to hike in Zion someday. This makes me want to do it even more! Really crowded however..
It's definitely crowded, but worth it. You can have it to yourself if you work for it. Generally involves getting up early, going off season or using rappelling gear or a backpack.
OOH! Perfect! We did the Narrows bottom up but keep thinking how cool it would be to get the permits and go the other way one day. Of course the crowds now look NOTHING like when we went even a few years ago. That is INSANITY that you captured. Yeah... might be permit time for both ways I'm thinking.
Loved the top down route. We were just back and it wasn't nearly as crowded at the bottom. But this trip was on a holiday weekend, so the crowds would naturally be at their worst.
OMG! The crowds at the end were insane! I did the bottom up 3 years ago in Nov & it was deserted compared to what you had to deal with. Great video though. The 1st day had to be so peaceful having that beautiful canyon all to yourselves.
Well done Tina and Jerry. You guys are BadAss, and really put together some great hiking videos. Beautiful place that I hope to visit someday soon. But I guess I will be part of the masses doing the up and back day trip. Safe travels, and Tex Mex!.
I'm surprised Bryce wasn't just as bad. Guess with all these parks, it depends more on where you go than when you go if you want to avoid crowds. I've been able to have a lot of experiences in Zion with almost perfect solitude, including the first 15 miles of this trip.
@@JerryArizona Well, I got my backcountry permits early on Saturday morning and got below the Rim before the crowds really started. It probably was a zoo, but I missed most of it (thankfully). Not many people outside of the shorter, main loop trails, but I got a bit of the crowd on Monday when I went back to do Wall Street and the Navajo Loop. Kinda sounds like your experience... nice and quiet in the backcountry and a quick dose of reality as you got closer to the day hikers.
just did bottom up in last july...before that about 10 years previously...big difference...yep Disney. Whole different experience for me. They need to do the Permit use thing like Angel's!!!
Didn't notice a drop in temp..or really in the lighting. I think we were too far out of the total eclipse path. Still really cool to see though. Especially in that location.
Loved your videos!! I'm with Tina on the people. Our first time visiting was on a Spring break.. swore I would never go back. Then a friend told me about visiting in winter. No shuttles and few people. We actually did Narrows bottom up in winter. Loved it!! After seeing your video, I would consider doing it from the top, but only in the winter! 😉
Wow, that is crazy about the cyanobacteria. Makes it way more challenging to have to pack all that water! You guys were livin' in luxury at campsite 12. I'll get campsite 12 next time but I'll check with you first since you have dibs :P
What the video didn't show was when I slammed me knee and shin full speed into an underwater rock. I ended up with multiple cuts and scratches (and did a face plant in the water). So I got to hike a good mile in the toxin filled water with open wounds....and I was fine. My pride was hurt a little bit, but otherwise fine.
What’s up? Recently discovered your channel and really enjoy your videos. They are well constructed, entertaining, educational, and even comical at times. My wife and I hike often; however, only day or half day hikes, usually under ten miles. We’re in the LA area, so in the San Gabriel’s often. Btw, one on the reasons we haven’t been to Zion in years are the ridiculous crowds. We hate them too, and avoid them as much as possible. Anyway, stay safe out there.
Luckily, we can avoid crowds even in Zion, but it takes work. You either have to backpack or do a technical canyoneering route, but it can be done. Unfortunately, the crowds at the end of this hike couldn't be avoided. With a little time between us and the crowds, I only remember the cool parts where we had the canyon to ourselves or almost to ourselves on the upper sections.
That’s what my mom said and decades later I went. I showed her photos of the crowds and she was stunned. Guess this was something one shoulda done decades ago.
Damn, what's her rush? Stop and smell the roses. Patience is a virtue etc etc etc Dude, next time wear convertible zip off hiking pants (Kuhl makes a really good pair) or just tell her see ya when I see ya, I'm putting on my freaking shorts lol
So excited, we're at campground 12 next week. Hopefully midweek it won't be quite as bad. Although I did the bottom up hike just 15 years ago, and I don't know what you're talking about, it wasn't all that crowded.
All I can say is go as early in the morning as you can. The couple from livehardxlovehard had a great idea; they rented bikes and went in before the shuttles started. Check out their channel and video. Looked like the way to do it.
@@JerryArizona We did our own shuttling, which was a bit of a headache and we didn't start super early (but with a group of 11, the $600+ shuttle cost was hard to swallow). Everything came out well though, This hike met my expectations as probably the most astoundingly scenic hike I've ever done. Definitely a long day for the slower members of the group. With flow rate of 38 and temps in Springdale reaching 100, those who rented gear mostly regretted it - definitely no need for neoprene booties, people liked 2 poles better than 1, and those in their own shoes were more comfortable than rented boots.
Just did this last week top down in one day and the water level was much higher. Amazing hike. Brutal to do in one day, especially since you are rushed to make the last shuttle out. Great video, wish I got to enjoy it as much as you guys did… next time I will camp!
Dude! Was JUST talking about doing this exact trip over a upcoming Memorial Day weekend with my brother...during a backpacking trip to the ND Badlands this past Memorial Day weekend. Always enjoy the vids! Thanks for the info....will definitely stay away from campsite #12....lol.
I subscribe to a number of outdoor/ hiking/ camping channels and I think yours just became my favorite. This video (specifically minutes 18-19) is why I CANNOT WAIT to be retired (counting the years) so I can go in the middle of the week. That crowd is absolute insanity, and would have ruined it for me too. Just..... UGH. And also, I want Tina to be my new BFF. :P Keep telling it like it is, Tina!
In retrospect, it was worth it. I think it may be the most beautiful canyon I've ever been in. But if you told me they were going to limit the entire canyon from the bottom up with permits, I would not complain. The crowds were out of hand. Nothing could have prepared me for THAT many people.
@@JerryArizona I honestly don't see how they can maintain this level of activity without big-time negative effects. Have you seen the crowds in Yellowstone? They MUST start a reservation system. There is just no other way unless our priority is to continue to put profit before preservation. Personally, I'll be devastated if I don't get to see the parks/places on my bucket list once I retire, but I'd rather that than their total destruction due to masses of (often unruly and disrespectful) humanity. :(
Yeah. But as crowded as it is, you can find ways around the crowds. Have miles and miles all to ourselves from the top. Definitely recommend that as the way to see it.
I did bottom up on Election Day last year. First shuttle up and saw no one once I left Riverside walk all the way to big springs. Then on way down started seeing people but didn’t get crazy until bottom 3 miles. I hated people also when I was done.
Hiked bottom up for a few miles on October 5, 2021. It was threatening rain later in the day. Took a day pack. After the Riverside walk, the people really thinned out. When the canyon narrowed, I took 40 pictures without a single person in view. An awesome day.
Yeah, the crowds definitely thin out the further in that you go. Or the earlier you go. There are always tricks to get around the crowds. We had a good mile or so of beautiful narrows past Big Spring with hardly anyone, even though day hiking was allowed there.
Wow thats shocking how low the water was...i did the whole thing as a day hike. Tough to be one of twelve. If you thought those bolders were hard imagine doing it in above knee water. It was all worth it
Just an FYI, I do occasional work for the shuttle van company you probably rode on to Chamberlin. On normal busy weekends since summer 2020, a busy day was selling 250-350 tickets into the canyon (which is now suspended thanks to the infinite stupidity of the NPS). Sunday Memorial weekend we sold 850. As I've been telling people for years, rule #1, never go to a place like Zion on a 3 day weekend unless you like crowds. You need to emphasize that you made that mistake in your video. When I conducted a tour from Sinawava to mouth of Orderville on a weekday after Memorial Day, there was probably a third of the people. That portion of the canyon is the most impressive in my opinion, the portion that you referred to as a muddy Disneyland. Bad bad bad. I didn't see any mud. This is the portion that most people can only see and don't have the luxury, strength, or know-how to do the hike you guys did. The Narrows bottom up and Angels Landing doesn't need a permit system, the WHOLE canyon needs a permit system, just like The Wave, but maybe just a few more people. That's my 2 cents.
Yeah. Good points. I can't really change a video once it's posted though. But this isn't a video about how to avoid crowds in Zion. This is a video about our top down trip in the Narrows. The shuttle driver did say it was the longest line for park shuttles he's ever seen (definitely the longest I've ever seen.) As I'm sure you know, Narrows permits are tough to get and it's a scramble when they are released. So I got what I got and had to make do. We still had an amazing trip in what I consider one of the most beautiful canyons I have ever seen. The montage from Big Spring up to the crowds was meant to showcase that beauty....and that section can be enjoyed from the bottom up. I get where you are coming from and try to refrain from the negative, but I also want to be honest. And I appreciate that for a lot of people, that's a bucket list destination and bottom up is their only option. I did not intend to dig on the canyon or the hike or the park or people who enjoy it that way. But that's just how I personally felt about the trip. I ABSOLUTELY agree they need a permit system for the entire canyon. I am a big fan of permit systems. After all, that's probably the only reason the upper 15 miles were so amazing and peaceful.
@@JerryArizona Understood on you being honest with your experience. Hopefully people will remember you said Memorial Weekend and will understand why it was abnormally busy. Two pet peeves: 1) a reservation system is definitely needed in Zion Canyon and 2) RUclips definitely needs an option to update a video. Been there done that. After posting a video and I notice something was miss-pronounced, miss-spelled, or downright wrong information, I don't want to lose all the quality comments already posted. Instead, I have to delete the video, all the comments and start over. Bad. Oh well, at least we have a RUclips. If you ever want to revisit the Narrows during a better time, try the first week of December. The video I created while working there shows a tour I lead when the few trees in the canyon were glowing bright yellow: ruclips.net/video/wVNanYCgtaE/видео.html
Great video. I am an older female hiker wanting to know what brand Tina’s shirts and legging were. It looked like they dried really quickly and didn’t show dirt much. Would love some info! Thanks for sharing!
I love your videos so much and I love Tinas smart ass comments! We just moved to Phoenix, we hate people too but need friends haha can we be your friends? 😁
That was a knock off of the Radiate Portable Campfire. The original is much larger (and too heavy to take on something like this.) The smaller one is tiny and really just for moral. They don't work for most hikes, but when things align (like here where you can get cold but not have a fire), they're great.
we did the top down day hike May 2021. It was remarkable but a long day. Feet were cramping the last few miles due to all the boulder walking. Crowds sucked @ the bottom but made the solitude and beauty of the top all the better.
With a little time and distance, I want to do this again. We had a lot of the canyon to ourselves. It's always a shock for me going from the solitude of nature to a crowd that messes with my mindset. Did it again not long after this when I did Imlay Canyon; hours with no one by the party I was with in a slot canyon, only to rappel directly into the busy section of the Narrows. But it's worth it and I would definitely do it again.
Epic adventure! Thank you for sharing. Big Springs down (to the crowds) - absolutely gorgeous!! I've dayhiked upriver twice but many years ago. Wouldn't even attempt it now. Zion is suffering as are many of the National Parks and wilderness areas 😔
Great video. Can you let me know what shuttle company you used to get from the visitor center? We are going in September and I'm looking for a shuttle.
@@JerryArizona Awesome. Thanks for the quick reply. It looks like they are only leaving from Zion Adventures now. We will be through hiking and I wanted to try to have a car in the park so we don't have to shuttle outside the park when we are done. Having just booked the permits, I'm still trying to figure all that out.
@@dgassert when in doubt, call them. It is a hassle figuring out shuttles and things. When we went, they were still letting private shuttles into the main canyon. I know that’s changed. It’s always changing.
Love it! Enjoy watching you both. We are thinking of hiking/camping this in the next couple months. Only concern is water height this time of year. Any advice?
Thank you. Next couple of months should be good. You will need to be mostly concerned with storms. Especially monsoons later in the summer/early fall. Make sure you check the weather often and ask about the current conditions at the back country desk when you get your permits. They won't let you go if the flow is too high, but if a storm is coming and the flow is currently low, they may just warn you. In that case, it's always advisible to play it safe.
Yes. Permits are required through the Zion website. They go up on the 5th of the month. Just snagged some today, actually. I forget what time. Maybe 10AM Utah time? You need to be quick. There are 12 campsites for the narrows top down. If I remember right, they only reserve half(ish) of them in advance. The rest you go to the back country desk and hope you can get one. Don't quote me on that; check their website to be sure. You can also day hike the entire thing top to bottom, but I think that requires a permit too. Top down also needs a shuttle. Bottom up requires no permits, but you can't go further than Big Spring.
Fantastic video. Thanks for the honest commentary. Just out of curiosity, do you have a list of the gear you used? I was in Zion this past Memorial Day weekend myself but your set-up looks like it would make my life so much easier for when I top-down in September. I'm also quite curious as to what pants your wife was wearing. Thanks again 🤗
Glad you enjoyed. I actually did a video on our gear a few months ago. I can't get a link to work here, but it's called "Backpacking for Comfort & Tips on Gear". Depending on your experience level, you may want to pare down what we take (we over pack). Tina was wearing a pair of Arc'teryx Oriel leggings. She likes them because they're light, dry quickly and have pockets.
@@JerryArizona I found and watched your gear vid. Thanks for that. The one thing I didn't see in that video was which rainfly you guys used to float your packs in the deepest parts of the Virgin River. Otherwise, I LOVE how honest you both are. I find it both freshing and helpful 💪
@@elainaritenburgh8886 The rainflies actually came with the backpacks. Definitely make sure you double bag things inside your backpack just in case. The water is borderline too fast for using that trick.
I've day hiked this a couple of times. Now prefer Orderville Canyon because you are stumbling over mossy bowling balls you can't see in the Virgin River for many fewer miles.
We are permitted to do this in September... doing a single-day hike. How did you stay warm? We are most worried about the cold water. And, what shoes did you wear? Looked like neoprene socks and then your own hiking boots?
We went in late May. I was honestly more concerned with spring run off water volumes, but it wasn't bad as you can tell. I can't remember the temperatures, but it was cold at the top in the morning. Tina's hands got cold, but otherwise we were good. We brought a wool base layer, the clothes you see in the video for hiking and for mornings/nights down puffy jackets, gloves and beanies. We had a 30 degree sleeping bag and were fine (although it was a double, so we had body warmth too.) The water wasn't that bad; hiking kept us warm. For hiking shoes, we just had regular hiking shoes (I wore Altra's), wool socks and then switched to light (3mm?) neoprene socks when it got a little cold on the feet. I think we brough flip flops (and spare socks) for camp. You can probably skip the wool and flip flops if you're day hiking. September looks like its warmer (on average) than it was when we went (78 high/48 low typical.) Obviously check the weather when it gets closer, but I think you should be fine. Plan for a long day. I'd recommend bringing a water purifier to fill up at Big Spring, and definitely two hiking poles. Enjoy.
Hello Jerry and Tina would this hike be good for beginners? we have hiked the narrows up 4.5 miles. Some what new to backpacking and we are looking at this hike. Stay safe
I wouldn't call this a beginner backpacking trip. You may want to look into West Fork (Sedona), Aravaipa, Baldy Loop in the White Mountains, lots in the Superstitions (when it's cooler)....If you're set on Zion, I'd recommend West Rim Trail over this to start. The Narrows isn't TOO bad, but the water adds logistics to think about.
@@JerryArizona 1of our favorite channels living in the California desert we know the heat. Will look at west rim and the Superstitions. looking for some easy for my wife Susan and Christina. Thanks for getting back to us.
We got permit for next month. May I know your recommendation on shoes ? Are trail shoes required or just a pair of running sneakers will do? Thank you. Enjoyed this video
I wear either hiking shoes (Altra Olympus) or approach shoes (La Sportiva TX4's), but really just about any drainable hiking shoe or boot would work. Combine that with wool hiking socks or neoprene socks (I wore 3mm). Bring flip flops or something for camp.
Hello all, I'm doing this next month. Where should I park my car and not pay the meter or lot $1,000? Also, can anyone advise on the shuttle service, please? Best wishes to everyone everyday.
We used Red Rock Shuttle. Used them a few times, actually. I would get to the visitor center super early and park in the lot. Parking is free, but they fill up. Get the earliest shuttle you can to pick you up there and take you to Chamberlain Ranch. Hike top down and you can catch a free shuttle from Temple of Sinawava back to your car.
Unfortunately, I didn't record the route and can't remember. I know that we got the earliest shuttle we could and arrived at camp maybe around 4 or 5? It's a full day of hiking. It gets really slow after you hit campsite 1 and it's a lot of boulders and walking in the creek. Expect that portion to be maybe half your normal speed. Up to that point it's pretty straightforward.
How to make a canyon seem even smaller. Just add several thousand people. Having done many solo hikes & small groups, it's always a shock to get back to a busy place. It makes you yearn for the solitude all the more. When I'm alone on a hike, I feel embraced by nature, my senses seem more heightened & I'm aware of many small details. It's a powerful primal thing & I'm sure you guys understand it too when you get into these special places with very few or no one around.
Thank you for these videos that help keep me sane in an insane world!
You're welcome. And with some time and space between this trip, we're ready to do it again. It's just that initial shock, like you said. I remember going through Imlay. About as rugged and wild as it gets. Last rappel was into the narrows, but it was late enough it wasn't too crowded. We got back to the Visitor Center and my buddies wanted to go to the Bar to get food. I walked in and it was standing room only. I couldn't take it. It was overwhelming after being out there for the whole day. I had to walk outside and wait for them to get their food.
I love the honesty and seeing that someone else doesn’t view the Disneyland atmosphere as the epitome of paradise. Keep up the quality camera work and humorous inserts. Thanks for sharing.
Excellent camera work. I am no expert but if you can get a wider angle camera with a little more panorama, at least in some of the shots that would be nice. But I’m not criticizing this was just a joy to watch. Thank you so much Arizona clan.
I will always bring a chair while backpacking! That sigh when you finally sit is always worth it!!
I used to refuse to take one, but Tina kept bringing hers. I admit there was jealousy once we got to camp. Now I take mine on most trips.
I concur 1000%!!
I have brought z seat pad to put on a rock, but it’s just not the same as a good ole camp chair. Totally worth the weight!
@@WifingAround absolutely! I have the pad as well. Doesn’t even compare with a chair, but better than nothing on the really long trips where weight really counts. I’ve only done one trip where I didn’t bring it.
... that back support! It comes with me on every hike.
The narrows is so busy, there are so many other hikes outside zion that everyone overlooks, I was over zion and now I want to go back, that is how it gets people, you hike once and can't stop going back! In April, my family and I did a backpack trip in the Kolob Canyons part of the park, it was so amazing and now I really just want to see the narrows again! I just love your videos!
People Pollution! I agree, great and beautiful up to that point.
Love the honesty of how crowded the Narrows have become. Great video, thanks!
Holly ! crowded like champs elysées ! I was lucky to be there twice with few people in it.First in1997 and second time in 2008 so wonderfull an good shots. Thanks for this 3rd time.
About to do this hike with my brother in October. Loved watching the whole thing and you all both have great personalities. I also feel much more at ease after watching and preparing for an overnight trip! Will definitely be wearing the right socks haha. Thanks for such a great video
Thanks! May be a little chilly up top at Chamberlain Ranch when you're starting, so bring layers. I think it was 20~30 cfs during this trip. We recently did it again (you can check my more recent uploads. It's within the last 3~4) around 40~50 cfs. Just know that it gets a LOT slower due to all the rocks and walking in the river once you hit the first campsite. That walk from campsite 1 to 12 seemed to take forever this last trip. The narrows themselves were a lot less crowded though. This video was over a holiday weekend when the park was at peak capacity.
YES!.
I lost my phone in there a year ago. I think right past where you floated the packs was where.
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful guys, thank you.
Putting a smile on my face as well.
The best hiking channel! Hitting fossil creek again tomorrow....and it's HOT out!! Timmy C Arizona
Sounds like you live at Fossil Creek or the beach....which sounds pretty awesome, actually.
@@JerryArizona I've been a Realtor since I was 18. Thank God I had some common sense and saved for a rainy day per it's pouring here in Arizona! Btw. We have an extra spot for Carlsbad state beach for a week starting July 4th if your interested?! Timmy C Arizona
That was fantastic, thanks so much for showing me a place I will never see in person now. Too old and fat for a hike like that.
So little time, so much to see❤❤
Hi guys, only just found your channel... couldn't but not subscribe. I'm an oldtimer Englishman who relives past adventures through channels like yours. Love the interaction with your lovely wife.
Thanks! Glad you like the videos.
Beautiful!! Well done ! Great edit ! I was thinking no El Patio in Zion . That was funny ! Some day I’m sure we will run into you there ha ha . We camped the west end of Rim Memorial weekend and hardly saw anyone. They must have been all hiking the narrows ha ha ! Road tripped it to Indiana to visit Grandkids. Got a good hike day under 5 miles in New Mexico of 1-40 . Off can be off road as we are over-landing it . Probably be back in AZ next weekend. Thank you Tina also ! Takes two to Tango !
Enjoyed watching this video. Done this hike many years ago the exact way you did it. Take the van to the top then hike down. I think it was in the early 1980's. Our campsite wasn't as far as you went, I think we were maybe mid-way thru the sites, dont remember the campsite # but we had to hike UP aways and to the right of the river. We were pretty high up looking down at the river. We had some rain in the night but not too bad. I think it was spring. One thing we did different from you was when we did the deep water crossings, I never took my backpack off. I had an old 4100 cubic inch Kelty frameback but inside of it I had a big waterproof rubber drybag that I had most of my stuff in. I trapped a bunch of air inside of the bag along with my equipment and clothes and so when I got into the water I found I was completely buoyant and could swim along just fine. The last three miles coming out we ran into just a few hikers, nothing like what you experienced with the crowds of people. But this was the 80's, before Zion got too popular. We also did Angels Landing a couple times back then and we had that trail pretty much to ourselves. It seems Zion has turned into a real madhouse. Still, a beautiful place I would love to go back someday but would have to figure out the best time of year to avoid the crowds.
Well, this was on a holiday weekend. Just happened to be when I could get permits. It's crowded, but not usually this bad. Almost had the whole canyon to ourselves on day 1. Main tricks to beat the crowds are taking a route that requires a rope or a backpack and avoiding the holidays. Crowded, but still amazing.
oMG thanks for showing this video because after hiking UP the narrows a few years ago, I swore I would never go back and my sister almost disowned me. It was sooooo, crowded, I hightailed it as fast as I could and we got about six miles up with no break Sis was pissed by then. Took a little break, more people kept coming and I promised her going back down that we would take an ample break. Going back it got even worse. Trying to dodge some people, I fell in the water and was horrified that even a drop got in my mouth, (you had to have been there and seen the people) I’m not usually scared of water in my mouth. I didn’t t stop until we got to the shuttle stop. I love nature and hate crowds. People were literally 2 miles upstream with floaties and bbq’s! Eweee. I guess doing the trip you took is off my bucket list. Thanks for letting me live vicariously through your adventure.
Thank you for another amazing adventure to someplace I have always wanted to hike. There weren’t nearly As many people as when I was there ages ago. Too bad I didn’t do it then. Thank you for sharing such a great trip. You two are really troopers and inspiring to watch! The National Park Service does a great job of managing so many people who want to enjoy such a beautiful place.
I've been back several times since this trip. This was by far the busiest I've seen it. That's what you get for going on a holiday weekend, but that's when I could get permits. We need to stop recording reactions right after something like this because if there's a bad experience right at the end, that's what's at the forefront of our mind at the time. Now that it's been a while, all I remember are all the miles we had to ourselves and what an amazing experience it is. Don't let this video sway you from going. We're definitely doing this one again.
I enjoy watching your adventures, it makes my day. That was an awesome shot when you pulled the camera through the driftwood!
I saw it, and I immediately knew I needed that shot.
Did this hike in 1991, and it is definitely one of the most amazing hikes I’ve ever done. Really enjoyed the video!
Thanks! We absolutely love Zion. Glad you got to experience it.
this is the best video i've seen so far. finding a backpacking overnight video on the narrows is tough! thank you! i'm heading there in september, so excited!! Good to know that a 90-60 forecast actually has way cooler temps!!
Glad you found it helpful! Any questions, just ask. It is one of the most beautiful canyons I've ever seen. (Even with all the people at the end.)
Truly an inspiring Video, well produced. The canyon just gets better and better as you go down. I think I could deal with the crowds for a couple of miles. Nice to see people from all over the world.
@@JerryArizona I wanted to let you know that we did the hike and it was amazing! We ended up floating our packs with the pack cover technique and it worked perfectly, so thank you for that! We didn't want to wait in line to try to avoid the swim. I ended up making a video to help others as well. Thank you!!
Absolutely beautiful! Damn those last 3 miles looked awful, really wanted Tina to use her poles to clear a path through the hordes! lol
Apparently the park service frowns upon that. I've looked it up.
Wow that looks like so much fun, I look forward to visiting that area as well, Love your wifes humor lol, has me and my wife laughing, Love her! And your guys sense of people is spot on! lol You guys looks like you would be awesome friends to have.
I cannot believe you hike so much there.
Hooked on your videos, need my fix everyday ❤❤❤❤
An awesome trip. What a gorgeous canyon. Your video is excellent, as usual, so many beautiful shots. Thanks for bringing us along!
Thanks for the video. Thanks for all the great editing.
Tina, one of your comments helped me so much! One of my trekking poles broke, and my husband and I are planning on visiting the Narrows in June. I was trying to decide if I should buy new poles, or just bring the good one that I have, as I typically only hike with one pole. Your comment that you were glad you were using both poles, when you typically only hike with one, was much appreciated! I'm definitely going to get a new set before heading to Utah! Thank you!
You're welcome! This is absolutely a two pole hike. I still managed to fall down in the water, but they helped me a ton.
The last 3 miles were a buzz killer. We try to stay away from popular spots on holidays. It's hard to stay away from people, they are everywhere. We're in Northern Wisconsin and most tourists are gone now. Very very quiet in the woods. Love it! Started snowing as I type this. Thanks for your sharing your amazing adventures 😀
With a little time and distance, I don't really mind the last bit. We had miles of the canyon virtually to ourselves. And it was a holiday weekend, which I'd normally avoid in Zion, but when you get Narrows permits, you go. Luckily, with a backpack or a rope and helmet, we can experience parts of these parks that avoid the crowds. At least for most of the hike, anyway.
Love the honesty !
Tina will always say what's on her mind.
did this with some friends about 3 months ago but we did it as a day hike it took us about 15 hours, but started way to late and got to the car at 11. We did the full hike and the views, shear cliff and breathtaking formations is something to never forget. Any one that has the opportunity to do this, you need to take it
Love Zion and this route was especially amazing. Hopefully doing it again soon, actually.
Good informative video, I did The Narrows over the past weekend with some friends. We got camp site 3 which was also a good location, up elevated away from the river. I did some digging up for info on the for sale signs at the start of the narrows. Luckily all that got resolved, it sounds like some long winded private land ownership/public access deal. The feds, state, county as well as private donors collectivity worked out a deal with the land owner where the land owner will retain ownership of the 880 acres, but there is a permanent conservation easement for public access to The Narrows. I think the shuttle is the way to go. My group had left a car in the visitor parking lot then drove to the trail head and left a 2nd vehicle there. When we got done with The Narrows and got back to the parking lot, we still had to all the way back up to the trail head to get the other vehicle which turned a long two days into a longer two days. I'd recommend paying the shuttle fee.
Oh man. I would not have wanted to hike back to the car! 3 was a good spot. They all were. It WAS really nice having the water right there though. I heard they figured out the private property before this trip. Actually had to cancel plans for a while because of the dispute. I was surprised to see the sign still up.
The Narrows, my favorite hike. Well done guys.
Absolutely incredible. With a little time, the crowds are a distant memory and all I can remember is how beautiful it was.
The first 85% the narrows was so awesome.... then the muddy disneyland..haha, not as much. But still a great adventure! Campsite 12 is now going to be booked;)
Campsite 12 is definitely where it's at. And it's funny. The more days that go by, the less I remember the crowds at the end and the more I think about the first 15 miles of awesomeness.
We were there last week and got up at 4am for parking spot and waited in shuttle line for 90 minutes. They were short of drivers One was just lost from COVID. The crowds took away from the ambiance for sure. Lesson learned is that if you like somewhere, don’t tell anyone about it. Love your video and chairs
Hi love you trails we don't have that kind of trail in Ireland. Was in the USA some time ago San Francisco and around bus tour.. My tip is if your in deep water is to double up to green bin bags in your back pack then put all of your clothing avoid sharp objects in clothing then when packed this will keep your clothing dry plus if the water get very deep you can use the back pack as a floating device to keep you a float. Plus keep your clothing dry. Better still get one of the heavy duty bags with the turn clips and keep every thing dry and you up on the water. Love the video..
Awesome video! I would love to see that place. Amazing footage. Crow
My family and I just backpacked narrows on 6/14-15, and lottery (but fail) the wave in person on 6/16. Very close to bump into you again :-)
The Narrows is great as a backpacking trip, right? That is pretty close. Maybe we'll run into each other eventually. I run into way more people that watch this channel out there than I ever thought I would.
Geez. Coincidentally skimming comments again and I realized it was you, man. I didn't realize that when I originally commented. My bad! I think when you ran into us in Buckskin it was one of the first times anyone recognized us. It would've been crazy to run into you a second time. Although it's sounding likely if you were here 6/14. We were just two weeks ahead of you.
Very good guys!
Just found your channel. I love the video. My husband and I want to hike in Zion someday. This makes me want to do it even more! Really crowded however..
It's definitely crowded, but worth it. You can have it to yourself if you work for it. Generally involves getting up early, going off season or using rappelling gear or a backpack.
You have the best channel and now my wife and I have all these hikes we are needing to do... ugh, where to begin?!
Haha! Start small and close to home and build up from there!
I'm slowly getting caught up on your vids... AND NOW I GOTTA GET INTO CANYONEERING! GREAT!! 😂
OOH! Perfect! We did the Narrows bottom up but keep thinking how cool it would be to get the permits and go the other way one day. Of course the crowds now look NOTHING like when we went even a few years ago. That is INSANITY that you captured. Yeah... might be permit time for both ways I'm thinking.
We hiked the lower portion in early May. Still busy, but nothing like that! Great work!
Loved the top down route. We were just back and it wasn't nearly as crowded at the bottom. But this trip was on a holiday weekend, so the crowds would naturally be at their worst.
OMG! The crowds at the end were insane! I did the bottom up 3 years ago in Nov & it was deserted compared to what you had to deal with. Great video though. The 1st day had to be so peaceful having that beautiful canyon all to yourselves.
There are always ways around the crowds. At least for a while.
Well done Tina and Jerry. You guys are BadAss, and really put together some great hiking videos. Beautiful place that I hope to visit someday soon. But I guess I will be part of the masses doing the up and back day trip. Safe travels, and Tex Mex!.
Cool video! The last part makes me glad I passed on Zion and spent Memorial Day Weekend backpacking in Bryce instead.
I'm surprised Bryce wasn't just as bad. Guess with all these parks, it depends more on where you go than when you go if you want to avoid crowds. I've been able to have a lot of experiences in Zion with almost perfect solitude, including the first 15 miles of this trip.
@@JerryArizona Well, I got my backcountry permits early on Saturday morning and got below the Rim before the crowds really started. It probably was a zoo, but I missed most of it (thankfully). Not many people outside of the shorter, main loop trails, but I got a bit of the crowd on Monday when I went back to do Wall Street and the Navajo Loop. Kinda sounds like your experience... nice and quiet in the backcountry and a quick dose of reality as you got closer to the day hikers.
just did bottom up in last july...before that about 10 years previously...big difference...yep Disney. Whole different experience for me. They need to do the Permit use thing like Angel's!!!
Love this video- great scenery/footage, helpful info, and I love the sweating and the outtakes 😂 Thanks!!
Didn't notice a drop in temp..or really in the lighting. I think we were too far out of the total eclipse path. Still really cool to see though. Especially in that location.
Loved your videos!! I'm with Tina on the people. Our first time visiting was on a Spring break.. swore I would never go back. Then a friend told me about visiting in winter. No shuttles and few people. We actually did Narrows bottom up in winter. Loved it!! After seeing your video, I would consider doing it from the top, but only in the winter! 😉
I've always been too nervous of water temps to do that one in the winter. Done plenty of other stuff in winter to get some solitude though.
Wow, that is crazy about the cyanobacteria. Makes it way more challenging to have to pack all that water! You guys were livin' in luxury at campsite 12. I'll get campsite 12 next time but I'll check with you first since you have dibs :P
What the video didn't show was when I slammed me knee and shin full speed into an underwater rock. I ended up with multiple cuts and scratches (and did a face plant in the water). So I got to hike a good mile in the toxin filled water with open wounds....and I was fine. My pride was hurt a little bit, but otherwise fine.
Great hike and scenery despite the rough ending. I would have loved to see that scene with the butterfly dancing with Tina in a little slo-mo clip!
Nice catch on that shot. We even had a hummingbird do something similar, but I wasn't quick enough to catch it.
What’s up? Recently discovered your channel and really enjoy your videos. They are well constructed, entertaining, educational, and even comical at times.
My wife and I hike often; however, only day or half day hikes, usually under ten miles. We’re in the LA area, so in the San Gabriel’s often.
Btw, one on the reasons we haven’t been to Zion in years are the ridiculous crowds. We hate them too, and avoid them as much as possible.
Anyway, stay safe out there.
Luckily, we can avoid crowds even in Zion, but it takes work. You either have to backpack or do a technical canyoneering route, but it can be done. Unfortunately, the crowds at the end of this hike couldn't be avoided. With a little time between us and the crowds, I only remember the cool parts where we had the canyon to ourselves or almost to ourselves on the upper sections.
Hope house move went well. Hiking is a good way of getting your mind off boxes n stuff
Thanks! Nearly done with the unpacking and definitely getting back to hiking.
Great video!! 👍
Hiked the Narrows twice: in late Sept 76 and in early Oct 78. Beautiful fall colors and nobody else there but us...all the way through.
That’s what my mom said and decades later I went. I showed her photos of the crowds and she was stunned. Guess this was something one shoulda done decades ago.
Great review.
Thnak you. It's an incredible hike, and definitely a great experience from the top down.
Doing the top down hike in 2 weeks, this was a fantastic video, thank you for the work you put into this.
Glad you enjoyed. You'll love it. The canyon is beautiful, start to finish. Even with the people...
Stunning!
Damn, what's her rush? Stop and smell the roses. Patience is a virtue etc etc etc
Dude, next time wear convertible zip off hiking pants (Kuhl makes a really good pair) or just tell her see ya when I see ya, I'm putting on my freaking shorts lol
I’ll have to throw that out to my friends on doing Narrows top down next time. Did Narrows, Subway and Angels Landing last year. Love your videos!
Looks beautiful but there is no way I could handle all those people.
So excited, we're at campground 12 next week. Hopefully midweek it won't be quite as bad. Although I did the bottom up hike just 15 years ago, and I don't know what you're talking about, it wasn't all that crowded.
All I can say is go as early in the morning as you can. The couple from livehardxlovehard had a great idea; they rented bikes and went in before the shuttles started. Check out their channel and video. Looked like the way to do it.
@@JerryArizona We did our own shuttling, which was a bit of a headache and we didn't start super early (but with a group of 11, the $600+ shuttle cost was hard to swallow). Everything came out well though, This hike met my expectations as probably the most astoundingly scenic hike I've ever done. Definitely a long day for the slower members of the group. With flow rate of 38 and temps in Springdale reaching 100, those who rented gear mostly regretted it - definitely no need for neoprene booties, people liked 2 poles better than 1, and those in their own shoes were more comfortable than rented boots.
Just did this last week top down in one day and the water level was much higher. Amazing hike. Brutal to do in one day, especially since you are rushed to make the last shuttle out. Great video, wish I got to enjoy it as much as you guys did… next time I will camp!
Wow. Top down in a day has to be brutal. But still the best way to do it.
Wow, so many people, like at the beach
Dude! Was JUST talking about doing this exact trip over a upcoming Memorial Day weekend with my brother...during a backpacking trip to the ND Badlands this past Memorial Day weekend. Always enjoy the vids! Thanks for the info....will definitely stay away from campsite #12....lol.
I subscribe to a number of outdoor/ hiking/ camping channels and I think yours just became my favorite. This video (specifically minutes 18-19) is why I CANNOT WAIT to be retired (counting the years) so I can go in the middle of the week. That crowd is absolute insanity, and would have ruined it for me too. Just..... UGH.
And also, I want Tina to be my new BFF. :P Keep telling it like it is, Tina!
In retrospect, it was worth it. I think it may be the most beautiful canyon I've ever been in. But if you told me they were going to limit the entire canyon from the bottom up with permits, I would not complain. The crowds were out of hand. Nothing could have prepared me for THAT many people.
@@JerryArizona I honestly don't see how they can maintain this level of activity without big-time negative effects. Have you seen the crowds in Yellowstone? They MUST start a reservation system. There is just no other way unless our priority is to continue to put profit before preservation.
Personally, I'll be devastated if I don't get to see the parks/places on my bucket list once I retire, but I'd rather that than their total destruction due to masses of (often unruly and disrespectful) humanity. :(
Thanks for bringing back some awesome childhood memories. 💯🔥😁
It’s crazy how many people go to the narrows without any preparation.
Too many people in the last 3 to 4 miles. Definitely going back and starting from the top
Yeah. But as crowded as it is, you can find ways around the crowds. Have miles and miles all to ourselves from the top. Definitely recommend that as the way to see it.
I did bottom up on Election Day last year. First shuttle up and saw no one once I left Riverside walk all the way to big springs. Then on way down started seeing people but didn’t get crazy until bottom 3 miles. I hated people also when I was done.
Hiked bottom up for a few miles on October 5, 2021. It was threatening rain later in the day. Took a day pack. After the Riverside walk, the people really thinned out. When the canyon narrowed, I took 40 pictures without a single person in view. An awesome day.
Yeah, the crowds definitely thin out the further in that you go. Or the earlier you go. There are always tricks to get around the crowds. We had a good mile or so of beautiful narrows past Big Spring with hardly anyone, even though day hiking was allowed there.
Amazing as always!
Epic hike.
You 2 are AWESOME! Nice adventure and yes, people suck!
Wow thats shocking how low the water was...i did the whole thing as a day hike. Tough to be one of twelve. If you thought those bolders were hard imagine doing it in above knee water. It was all worth it
Just an FYI, I do occasional work for the shuttle van company you probably rode on to Chamberlin. On normal busy weekends since summer 2020, a busy day was selling 250-350 tickets into the canyon (which is now suspended thanks to the infinite stupidity of the NPS). Sunday Memorial weekend we sold 850. As I've been telling people for years, rule #1, never go to a place like Zion on a 3 day weekend unless you like crowds. You need to emphasize that you made that mistake in your video. When I conducted a tour from Sinawava to mouth of Orderville on a weekday after Memorial Day, there was probably a third of the people. That portion of the canyon is the most impressive in my opinion, the portion that you referred to as a muddy Disneyland. Bad bad bad. I didn't see any mud. This is the portion that most people can only see and don't have the luxury, strength, or know-how to do the hike you guys did. The Narrows bottom up and Angels Landing doesn't need a permit system, the WHOLE canyon needs a permit system, just like The Wave, but maybe just a few more people. That's my 2 cents.
Yeah. Good points. I can't really change a video once it's posted though. But this isn't a video about how to avoid crowds in Zion. This is a video about our top down trip in the Narrows. The shuttle driver did say it was the longest line for park shuttles he's ever seen (definitely the longest I've ever seen.)
As I'm sure you know, Narrows permits are tough to get and it's a scramble when they are released. So I got what I got and had to make do. We still had an amazing trip in what I consider one of the most beautiful canyons I have ever seen. The montage from Big Spring up to the crowds was meant to showcase that beauty....and that section can be enjoyed from the bottom up.
I get where you are coming from and try to refrain from the negative, but I also want to be honest. And I appreciate that for a lot of people, that's a bucket list destination and bottom up is their only option. I did not intend to dig on the canyon or the hike or the park or people who enjoy it that way. But that's just how I personally felt about the trip.
I ABSOLUTELY agree they need a permit system for the entire canyon. I am a big fan of permit systems. After all, that's probably the only reason the upper 15 miles were so amazing and peaceful.
@@JerryArizona Understood on you being honest with your experience. Hopefully people will remember you said Memorial Weekend and will understand why it was abnormally busy. Two pet peeves: 1) a reservation system is definitely needed in Zion Canyon and 2) RUclips definitely needs an option to update a video. Been there done that. After posting a video and I notice something was miss-pronounced, miss-spelled, or downright wrong information, I don't want to lose all the quality comments already posted. Instead, I have to delete the video, all the comments and start over. Bad. Oh well, at least we have a RUclips. If you ever want to revisit the Narrows during a better time, try the first week of December. The video I created while working there shows a tour I lead when the few trees in the canyon were glowing bright yellow: ruclips.net/video/wVNanYCgtaE/видео.html
Great video. I am an older female hiker wanting to know what brand Tina’s shirts and legging were. It looked like they dried really quickly and didn’t show dirt much. Would love some info! Thanks for sharing!
Her shirt is a Columbia PFG shirt. She said she had two different leggings; Arc'teryx and North Face. (Not sure on the exact type though.)
@@JerryArizona Thank you! Enjoying y’all’s videos-very helpful.
I like her she keeps it" real" no sugar coating
I love your videos so much and I love Tinas smart ass comments! We just moved to Phoenix, we hate people too but need friends haha can we be your friends? 😁
Awesome video! I am trying to do this in June! What was the little fire thing that used at Campsite 12?
That was a knock off of the Radiate Portable Campfire. The original is much larger (and too heavy to take on something like this.) The smaller one is tiny and really just for moral. They don't work for most hikes, but when things align (like here where you can get cold but not have a fire), they're great.
Informative and entertaining!!😂
Awesome Video. Thanks!
we did the top down day hike May 2021. It was remarkable but a long day. Feet were cramping the last few miles due to all the boulder walking. Crowds sucked @ the bottom but made the solitude and beauty of the top all the better.
With a little time and distance, I want to do this again. We had a lot of the canyon to ourselves. It's always a shock for me going from the solitude of nature to a crowd that messes with my mindset. Did it again not long after this when I did Imlay Canyon; hours with no one by the party I was with in a slot canyon, only to rappel directly into the busy section of the Narrows. But it's worth it and I would definitely do it again.
Tina is awesome!!
Epic adventure! Thank you for sharing. Big Springs down (to the crowds) - absolutely gorgeous!! I've dayhiked upriver twice but many years ago. Wouldn't even attempt it now. Zion is suffering as are many of the National Parks and wilderness areas 😔
I like canyons wonderful
There's a like button, but where's the LOVE button. Great video guys!!!
Thanks! Much appreciated. This was an incredible trip. The scenery did a lot of the heavy lifting for the video, for sure.
Great video. Can you let me know what shuttle company you used to get from the visitor center? We are going in September and I'm looking for a shuttle.
Thanks! We used Red Rock Shuttles. I just added a link in the description. Enjoy. It's a great hike.
@@JerryArizona Awesome. Thanks for the quick reply. It looks like they are only leaving from Zion Adventures now. We will be through hiking and I wanted to try to have a car in the park so we don't have to shuttle outside the park when we are done. Having just booked the permits, I'm still trying to figure all that out.
@@dgassert when in doubt, call them. It is a hassle figuring out shuttles and things. When we went, they were still letting private shuttles into the main canyon. I know that’s changed. It’s always changing.
Love it! Enjoy watching you both. We are thinking of hiking/camping this in the next couple months. Only concern is water height this time of year. Any advice?
Thank you. Next couple of months should be good. You will need to be mostly concerned with storms. Especially monsoons later in the summer/early fall. Make sure you check the weather often and ask about the current conditions at the back country desk when you get your permits. They won't let you go if the flow is too high, but if a storm is coming and the flow is currently low, they may just warn you. In that case, it's always advisible to play it safe.
great video - did you have to book something separately do to the top down hike?
Yes. Permits are required through the Zion website. They go up on the 5th of the month. Just snagged some today, actually. I forget what time. Maybe 10AM Utah time? You need to be quick. There are 12 campsites for the narrows top down. If I remember right, they only reserve half(ish) of them in advance. The rest you go to the back country desk and hope you can get one. Don't quote me on that; check their website to be sure. You can also day hike the entire thing top to bottom, but I think that requires a permit too. Top down also needs a shuttle. Bottom up requires no permits, but you can't go further than Big Spring.
Two poles always when backpacking!
Absolutely.
Thank you ❤! (Maybe Campsite 2 & 12 ?)
Yea, Sedona is definitely crowded. We go early, off season, with backpacks and/or with canyoneering gear.
Fantastic video. Thanks for the honest commentary. Just out of curiosity, do you have a list of the gear you used? I was in Zion this past Memorial Day weekend myself but your set-up looks like it would make my life so much easier for when I top-down in September. I'm also quite curious as to what pants your wife was wearing. Thanks again 🤗
Glad you enjoyed. I actually did a video on our gear a few months ago. I can't get a link to work here, but it's called "Backpacking for Comfort & Tips on Gear". Depending on your experience level, you may want to pare down what we take (we over pack). Tina was wearing a pair of Arc'teryx Oriel leggings. She likes them because they're light, dry quickly and have pockets.
@@JerryArizona I found and watched your gear vid. Thanks for that. The one thing I didn't see in that video was which rainfly you guys used to float your packs in the deepest parts of the Virgin River. Otherwise, I LOVE how honest you both are. I find it both freshing and helpful 💪
@@elainaritenburgh8886 The rainflies actually came with the backpacks. Definitely make sure you double bag things inside your backpack just in case. The water is borderline too fast for using that trick.
I've day hiked this a couple of times. Now prefer Orderville Canyon because you are stumbling over mossy bowling balls you can't see in the Virgin River for many fewer miles.
We are permitted to do this in September... doing a single-day hike. How did you stay warm? We are most worried about the cold water. And, what shoes did you wear? Looked like neoprene socks and then your own hiking boots?
We went in late May. I was honestly more concerned with spring run off water volumes, but it wasn't bad as you can tell. I can't remember the temperatures, but it was cold at the top in the morning. Tina's hands got cold, but otherwise we were good. We brought a wool base layer, the clothes you see in the video for hiking and for mornings/nights down puffy jackets, gloves and beanies. We had a 30 degree sleeping bag and were fine (although it was a double, so we had body warmth too.) The water wasn't that bad; hiking kept us warm. For hiking shoes, we just had regular hiking shoes (I wore Altra's), wool socks and then switched to light (3mm?) neoprene socks when it got a little cold on the feet. I think we brough flip flops (and spare socks) for camp. You can probably skip the wool and flip flops if you're day hiking. September looks like its warmer (on average) than it was when we went (78 high/48 low typical.) Obviously check the weather when it gets closer, but I think you should be fine. Plan for a long day. I'd recommend bringing a water purifier to fill up at Big Spring, and definitely two hiking poles. Enjoy.
Hello Jerry and Tina would this hike be good for beginners? we have hiked the narrows up 4.5 miles. Some what new to backpacking and we are looking at this hike. Stay safe
I wouldn't call this a beginner backpacking trip. You may want to look into West Fork (Sedona), Aravaipa, Baldy Loop in the White Mountains, lots in the Superstitions (when it's cooler)....If you're set on Zion, I'd recommend West Rim Trail over this to start. The Narrows isn't TOO bad, but the water adds logistics to think about.
@@JerryArizona 1of our favorite channels
living in the California desert we know the heat. Will look at west rim and the Superstitions. looking for some easy for my wife Susan and Christina. Thanks for getting back to us.
We got permit for next month. May I know your recommendation on shoes ? Are trail shoes required or just a pair of running sneakers will do? Thank you. Enjoyed this video
I wear either hiking shoes (Altra Olympus) or approach shoes (La Sportiva TX4's), but really just about any drainable hiking shoe or boot would work. Combine that with wool hiking socks or neoprene socks (I wore 3mm). Bring flip flops or something for camp.
Hello all, I'm doing this next month. Where should I park my car and not pay the meter or lot $1,000? Also, can anyone advise on the shuttle service, please? Best wishes to everyone everyday.
We used Red Rock Shuttle. Used them a few times, actually. I would get to the visitor center super early and park in the lot. Parking is free, but they fill up. Get the earliest shuttle you can to pick you up there and take you to Chamberlain Ranch. Hike top down and you can catch a free shuttle from Temple of Sinawava back to your car.
Awesome! Thanks for posting. How long did it take you to get to Site 12?
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Unfortunately, I didn't record the route and can't remember. I know that we got the earliest shuttle we could and arrived at camp maybe around 4 or 5? It's a full day of hiking. It gets really slow after you hit campsite 1 and it's a lot of boulders and walking in the creek. Expect that portion to be maybe half your normal speed. Up to that point it's pretty straightforward.
I'll bet you experienced significant "shinkage" in that river. I bet Tina was perky too.