The Virgin River Zion National Park UtahSo I left you, and me, in the middle of the Virgin River headed to The Narrows at Zion National Park.
The Virgin River Zion National Park UtahThe 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.
Gaelyn in the Virgin River Zion National Park UtahI 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.
Carved sandstone along the Virgin River Zion National Park UtahThe weather and water levels are monitored by the Park Service and posted at the visitor center and the trail head.
The Virgin River Zion National Park UtahI found out later the air temperature was 103° F.
The Virgin River Zion National Park UtahYet the twisting and turning river is mostly in shadow and the water is cold.
Water stained sandstone along the Virgin River Zion National Park UtahIt’s absolutely amazing to walk in the shadows of soaring walls of sandstone stained by minerals and running water from natural springs.
The Virgin River Zion National Park UtahPlants simply sprout out of the rock walls, swaying slightly in the breeze as they dance to the river’s melody.
The Narrows Virgin River Zion National Park UtahThe 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 along Virgin River Zion Natinal Park UtahOrderville 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.
Log jam along Virgin River Zion National Park UtahAt this point I stopped for lunch then headed back down stream.
The Virgin River Zion National Park UtahTook 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.
Hat pins Zion National Park UtahI forgot to earn my Jr. Ranger badge so will have to go back. However I added a new pin to my collection.