The Narrows
Ah, The Narrows at Zion National Park. This hike is, in a word, ICONIC. It's la great way to stay cool while checking out the towering cliffs and the Virgin River. 🌊📸
Getting There
First things first, you'll need to hop on the Zion Canyon Shuttle from the Zion Visitor Center. The shuttle runs from early morning until late afternoon, so you can't drive your car into the canyon during shuttle season. You will want Stop #9, the Temple of Sinawava. You will then hike upstream for approximately 1 mile up the Riverside Walk Trail before you dip yourself into the river for your adventure.
Gear Up
To get into the river, you'll need some gear:
Waterproof shoes: Think of them as your river sneakers. You don't want to be slipping and sliding like a penguin on a frozen lake3.
Walking stick: This is your trusty sidekick to help you navigate the rocky riverbed. It's like having a personal sherpa, but instead of carrying your bags, it's helping you stay upright3.
Dry bag: To keep your camera and other essentials safe from the water. Because nobody wants a soggy sandwich or a waterlogged camera!
Outfitters in Springdale
Springdale is your go-to spot for renting gear. There are several in town, so simply do a quick Google search! (We used Zion Outfitter last time)
Long Exposure Photography
For those silky-smooth water shots, long exposure photography is your best friend. The Virgin River flowing between those majestic cliffs creates a dreamy, ethereal effect when captured with a slow shutter speed. Just imagine the river looking like a ribbon of silk weaving through the canyon! 🌌📷
Best Things to Photograph
The towering cliffs: These bad boys are like nature's skyscrapers, and they make for an incredible backdrop.
The Virgin River: The river is always a star! A word of warning though, if it looks like a storm is brewing, DO NOT do this hike. Bad things may happen to you and your camera, and that is no bueno.
So, grab your camera, gear up, and get ready for an adventure in The Narrows! Just remember, it's not a race – take your time, enjoy the scenery, and don't forget to laugh at yourself when you slip on a rock (it happens to the best of us!). Just don’t get your camera wet! 📸😄