Riverside Walk
A developed riverside trail through the upper canyon to the beginning of The Narrows.
Route overview
Easy riverside approach to the mouth of The Narrows.
Riverside Walk follows the Virgin River from the Temple of Sinawava into the narrowing upper canyon. It is the dry-land approach to The Narrows and remains a worthwhile walk for visitors who do not plan to enter the river. The route is developed but can be wet, icy, crowded or affected by rockfall. Visitors must not drink river water or submerge their heads because NPS warns about toxic cyanobacteria.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Zion National Park, Utah
- Distance
- 2.2 mi / 3.5 km round trip
- Typical duration
- 1–1.5 hours
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation gain
- approximately 57 ft / 17 m
- Best season
- Year-round when trail conditions permit
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Cyanobacteria, slippery surfaces, ice, rockfall and crowding
Highlights
Virgin River, hanging gardens, narrowing canyon, Narrows gateway
Why find a buddy
A low-intensity route for evaluating compatibility or accompanying a partner who is deciding whether to enter The Narrows.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.