A Family-Friendly Guide to Zion’s Most Iconic Hike
If you’ve ever dreamed of doing a big, epic adventure with your kids—the kind that makes you feel like explorers in a storybook—The Narrows at Zion National Park might just be your next favorite family memory.
I’ll be honest: when we first heard about it—hiking through a river—I wasn’t sure it was doable with kids. But with the right gear, good planning, and a flexible attitude, it turned out to be one of the best adventures we’ve ever taken together.
Here’s everything I wish I had known before tackling The Narrows with my crew.
So, What Is The Narrows?
The Narrows is a hike like no other. Picture this: you’re surrounded by soaring red canyon walls hundreds of feet high while walking through cool, flowing water. There’s no formal trail—just the Virgin River itself.
Most families hike the bottom-up route, starting from the Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop. You can go in as far as you’d like, then turn around. This flexibility makes it ideal for kids—no pressure to “finish.”
👉 Learn more about The Narrows at Zion on the NPS website
SEE OUR HIKING MUST HAVES HERE:
What Ages Are Best for Hiking The Narrows?
This really depends on your child’s comfort level with water and uneven terrain. Our kids were [insert kids’ ages] and did great. I’d recommend it for kids 6 and up who are comfortable walking for at least an hour or two and don’t mind getting wet.
Younger kids can still enjoy it, especially if you bring a child carrier backpack (just be prepared to wade carefully with them). Even teens will love it—it feels more like an adventure than a hike.
Gear Is Everything: Rent, Don’t Pack
We rented The Narrows gear package from one of the local outfitters in Springdale. It was worth every penny and made the hike so much more enjoyable.
Outfitters We Recommend:
- Zion Outfitter – located right at the park entrance
- Zion Adventure Company – great customer service and helpful staff
The rental included:
- Sturdy canyoneering boots
- Neoprene socks (keep little toes warm)
- Wooden walking sticks (lifesavers for balance!)
Kid-Approved Tips for Hiking The Narrows
🕗 1. Start Early
Hop on the shuttle first thing in the morning to beat the crowds. Early light also means prettier photos and cooler temps.
🚌 Zion Shuttle Schedule & Info
🍎 2. Bring More Snacks Than You Think
Pack kid favorites that won’t get crushed—think bars, trail mix, string cheese, or fruit leather.
Need ideas? Check out this post: 25 Easy Hiking Snacks for Kids
🧃 3. Everyone Carries Something
Each child carried their own small water bottle or fanny pack with snacks. It gave them ownership and lightened the adult load.
Our favorite kid-friendly water bottles:
🧭 4. Let the Kids Set the Pace
Remind yourself: it’s not about distance—it’s about the experience. We stopped to skip rocks, splash in pools, and spot frogs.
👣 5. Stop Before It Stops Being Fun
If you’re tempted to say “just a little farther,” it’s probably time to turn back. Even a short distance into the canyon is breathtaking.
What We Wore
We kept it simple with:
- Quick-dry shirts and shorts or leggings
- Swimwear underneath
- Hats + sunglasses with a strap
- Lightweight long-sleeve layers for sun protection
- Waterproof shoes or sandals with straps (if not renting boots)
Things to Know Before You Go
🌀 Flash Floods Are Real
Always check the Zion Narrows Flash Flood Risk before heading out. If the forecast is questionable, don’t risk it.
🚻 Bathrooms at the Trailhead Only
Remind the kids to go before you get on the shuttle. Once you’re in the canyon, there are no facilities.
📱 Cell Service is Spotty
Download maps offline or bring a paper park map.
👉 Zion National Park Map
