So I left you, and me, in the middle of the Virgin River headed to The Narrows at Zion National Park.
The river has a fast current with algae-coated rocks described by the Park Service “like walking on slippery bowling balls.” And they’re
The river has a fast current with algae-coated rocks described by the Park Service “like walking on slippery bowling balls.” And they’re
not kidding.
I carefully placed one foot then tested for solidness, next moved my trekking pole forward and planted it securely, followed by a repeat for the second foot and then moved the pole again.
The weather and water levels are monitored by the Park Service and posted at the visitor center and the trail head.
I found out later the air temperature was 103° F.
Yet the twisting and turning river is mostly in shadow and the water is cold.
It’s absolutely amazing to walk in the shadows of soaring walls of sandstone stained by minerals and running water from natural springs.
Plants simply sprout out of the rock walls, swaying slightly in the breeze as they dance to the river’s melody.
The Virgin River has carved a spectacular gorge in The Narrows up to 2000 feet deep and at times only 20-30 feet wide.
Orderville Canyon is a tributary that was flowing very shallow and can be as narrow as 10-15 feet. You need a backcountry permit to go up any farther plus another person, and maybe even rope, to help with some waterfall climbs or log jams.
At this point I stopped for lunch then headed back down stream.
Took me about 2.5 hours each way, that’s my usual 1mph with water and food stops and I didn’t fall down or mash any toes. But I did take hundreds of pictures.
I forgot to earn my Jr. Ranger badge so will have to go back. However I added a new pin to my collection.
It’s absolutely amazing to walk in the shadows of soaring walls of sandstone stained by minerals and running water from natural springs.
Plants simply sprout out of the rock walls, swaying slightly in the breeze as they dance to the river’s melody.
The Virgin River has carved a spectacular gorge in The Narrows up to 2000 feet deep and at times only 20-30 feet wide.
Orderville Canyon is a tributary that was flowing very shallow and can be as narrow as 10-15 feet. You need a backcountry permit to go up any farther plus another person, and maybe even rope, to help with some waterfall climbs or log jams.
At this point I stopped for lunch then headed back down stream.
Took me about 2.5 hours each way, that’s my usual 1mph with water and food stops and I didn’t fall down or mash any toes. But I did take hundreds of pictures.
I forgot to earn my Jr. Ranger badge so will have to go back. However I added a new pin to my collection.
I love these rugged rocks, Gaelyn. Thanks for sharing. Maybe a dumb question, so you walk into the gorge?
Yes, the views are enough reason to go back LOL
Stunning pictures again! I am so going to go to Zion!
Beautiful photos! I've always wanted to hike up the narrows but first parents and later Hubby have vetoed the idea.
Great photos. Looks like an outstanding trip. Will look forward to hearing about the rest of your travels.
What an adventure, Gaelyn! I loved all your pictures – very exciting and the rocks are spectacular. Even though it was hot, I guess it felt good since the water is so cold. Good that you had an accident-free experience. I love Escalante – will look forward to your postings.
Wow, that's so cool!!! Awesome photos.
I like your 'backyard' adventures….
Wow, what an absolutely stunning place! Lovely photos. Thanks for taking us along on your hike.
That place is spectacular Gaelyn. WOW!! I really love the colors of the rocks.
Hi Gaelyn, the rock formation and the walk through the gorge is spectacular. Who took the photo of you walking through the stream? You will love the Natal Drakensburg in South Africa. Many hikes are similar only not so GINORMOUS. Thanks for sharing.
It's amazing to see what the power of water has done to those rocks! An excellent hike — thanks for taking us along.
This is a fabulously wonderful place!!! I would so very much love to experience it for myself.
The scenery is breathtaking. You are very brave to trek down the stream over those rocks.
I love your pictures…oh how I envy you.
What an awesome life you lead! You are so lucky, my friend – to see beauty like that on a daily basis. Do you just pinch yourself all the time or what?
Gaelyn: What a beautiful place with great photos.
Incredible! I would so love to see that. Maybe one day, I will put it on my list of places to go. Thanks Gaelyn
How cool! I love this post! Must,MUST do this sometime. I'm glad to know about shoes, ankle support (necessary for me on any type of hike) and the trekking stick. SO cool.