Day 4: Zion National Park - The Narrows

Day 4: Zion National Park - The Narrows

Once again, our day begins early, this time with the alarm clock at 6 a.m. We quickly go through our morning routine and an hour later we are on our way to Zion National Park. Then it's time to wait with other tourists for the shuttle buses. New buses arrive every minute and we even get a seat. Our stop is the last in the park and many others get off here. At the beginning, the path leads along the river and after 20 minutes we enter the river. The first meters are difficult, we have to get used to the uneven ground. We are well prepared and rent water hiking shoes, neoprene socks, and a sturdy hiking stick. The riverbed is very rocky, with many large and small stones. After just a few hundred meters, the water reaches our waist and after the initial shock of the water temperature, we quickly get used to it. The shoes let water in, but the temperature remains constant. David wears a wetsuit and is happy. The hike takes us through the river surrounded by 100-meter high sandstone walls. The colors change from red, brown, and black. There are opportunities to walk on the side without water, but even here there are many rocks. We walk for about 2.5 hours in one direction and then turn back at 12 o'clock. There is a possibility of flash floods due to sudden rain. These have been announced for the afternoon with a 20% probability. We don't want to take any risks, so we start the return journey. The hike is also exhausting. The nature is very beautiful and enchants us with the many colors. In the morning, the canyon is in the shade and the temperatures are pleasant. Now the sun is high and it's getting hotter. During the hike of about 10 kilometers, we take two breaks, have enough food and drinks with us. The river cools us down well and we reach the shuttle bus stop around 2 p.m. There are many people in the canyon with us. Especially the first 2 kilometers are crowded and some people walk with questionable equipment. Walking in flip-flops or sandals poses a high risk of injury. Some brave individuals are barefoot. We are glad to have invested the $31 per person. Overall, it is an experience that will stay with us for a long time. The children are also excited. Back at the car, we take a break. Then the kids earn their Junior Park Ranger badges. Tonight we sleep directly in the park. Our campsite is large and right by the river. Many animals like squirrels, lizards, and geckos visit us here. We are exhausted from the hike and lie in bed at sunset.