Zion Narrows Backpack

Late October Zion Narrows Backpack.

Back in August we were able to snag a permit to do an overnight backpack through the Zion Narrows in Zion NP over the last weekend in October. Needless to say we were a little worried about being comfortable on a trip that late in the year that required much time spent in the water. The permit was for six people and we were able to enlist Cole, Tyler, Caitlin, and our new friend Keith.

The hike starts up in the high desert plateau country about 1500' above the floor of the Zion Canyon NP.

Chamberlain Ranch TH 

(L to R): Cole, Keith, Caitlin, Dave Grohl, Dani, and Tyler

Fall Colors like this made for great contrast with the red rock.

 Day one consisted of following the Zion river as it started to carve its way into the plateau and down into the depths of Zion Canyon. Our camp was about halfway through the 16 total miles of our hike, and just after the convergence of the Zion River with the Deep Creek river, where the volume of the river more than doubles.

Baton twirl.

River crossings were frequent. We wore neoprene socks to keep our feet warm. Water temps were in the upper 40s.

Enjoy the fall color montage:

A couple miles before camp the walls closed in and we learned why it was called the Narrows.

Narrows.

Into the canyon.

 Day II after a great camp the river was deeper due to the addition of the Deep Creek flow. We put on our wet suits to help keep warm. A couple of river crossings required wading up to chest level.

Warm water springs would empty right out of the rock into the river.

In the heart of the narrows. Close to where Orderville Canyon empties into Zion Canyon. The walls are easily 1500' above the canyon floor.

Overall a great trip. An incredible hike. Great people. And a great way to spend one of the last weekends before the snow starts flying. Thanks to everyone that went and helped organize.