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Narrows Footwear Rental Package
Pricing
waterproof insert
Description
Zion Narrows Footwear Rental Package – Canyon Boots, Neoprene Socks & Walking Stick
The Narrows Footwear Package is the essential foundation for hiking the Virgin River—and for most summer hikers, it's all you need. Your feet will get wet, but that's part of the experience. What neoprene socks do is keep your feet warm and blister-free while canyon-specific boots give you the grip, toe protection, and ankle support that regular hiking footwear simply can't provide on slippery, submerged sandstone. Add in the custom wooden walking stick for balance and depth-checking, and you're set up to enjoy one of the greatest hikes in the American Southwest.
This package is the go-to for summer visits when water temperatures are warmer and air temperatures are high. It also works great for canyoneering and dry hikes, so it's a versatile option if you're pairing the Narrows with other adventures during your trip.
Not sure if you need more? Staff at pickup monitor current conditions and can advise on whether dry bibs or a full dry suit would serve you better on the day of your hike.
Duration
- Rental Period: Day of hike; gear available from 8:00 AM, due back by shop close
- Early pickup available the afternoon before (as early as 3:00 PM MST) if your sizes are in stock—great for early morning starts
Location of Rental Pickup
Zion Adventures
From the shop, take the Zion Canyon Shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava (the final stop), where the Narrows hike begins. Free customer parking is available at the store.
Ages & Requirements
- Open to all ages and experience levels
- No prior hiking experience required; the bottom-up route has no fixed turnaround and hikers go at their own pace
- Comfort wading in moving water is helpful; water can range from ankle-deep to waist-deep depending on flow
- A short section near the start can reach waist depth—check current conditions with staff at pickup
- Not recommended during flash flood watches or when the Virgin River exceeds 150 CFS (the park will close the hike in those conditions)
What's Included
- Canyon-specific boots (sizes from youth 13 to men's 14) - (grippy, draining soles designed for wet sandstone; proper toe protection and ankle support)
- Neoprene socks (insulating, blister-reducing; your feet get wet but stay warm and comfortable)
- Custom wooden walking stick (sturdier than trekking poles in fast-moving water; essential for balance and checking depth)
- Conditions briefing and gear orientation at pickup
Not Included
- Zion National Park entrance fee
- Transportation to/from Springdale
- Dry bag (available as an add-on)
- Canyon backpack (available as an add-on)
- Fleece layers (available as an add-on)
- Meals, snacks, and water
- Gratuity — never expected, but always appreciated
What to Bring / Wear
- Quick-dry clothing—synthetic or wool only (no cotton; it stays cold and wet and can become a safety issue)
- A change of dry clothes for after the hike
- Sunscreen and sunglasses (the Riverside Walk and canyon entrance are exposed)
- Dry bag for your phone, snacks, wallet, and anything else you don't want wet
- Plenty of water and snacks for the duration of your hike
- Headlamp (just in case you're in the canyon longer than expected)
ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Zion Adventures
FAQs
When is the footwear package the right choice?
This package is ideal for summer (roughly mid-May through September) when water temperatures are warmer and the risk of cold-related discomfort is lower. If you're hiking in late spring, fall, or winter—or if current river temperatures are cold—staff will likely recommend upgrading to the Dry Bib or Dry Suit package.
Why can't I just wear my regular hiking boots or sandals?
Regular hiking boots absorb water and quickly become heavy, slippery, and prone to damage on the submerged sandstone. Sandals offer no ankle support and poor grip. Canyon-specific boots are built to drain quickly, grip slick rock, and protect your feet throughout the hike. Hikers who skip the gear rental frequently return with ruined footwear, blistered feet, and wet gear.
Why a wooden walking stick instead of trekking poles?
Trekking poles can collapse or loosen under the constant pressure of fast-moving water and when wedged between rocks. A solid wooden pole is more stable, doesn't fail when you need it most, and gives you the leverage to brace against current and check depth safely.
How deep does the water get in The Narrows?
It varies by season and river flow. Under normal summer conditions (below 70 CFS), most of the hike is ankle- to knee-deep, with occasional waist-deep sections. Staff check conditions daily and will give you a current read at pickup. The park closes the bottom-up route when flow exceeds 150 cubic feet per second (CFS).
How far should I hike?
There's no required turnaround. The paved Riverside Walk covers the first mile (1.6 km). From there, even a half mile into the river to Mystery Falls makes for a great short trip—ideal for kids or those wanting a taste. Reaching Wall Street (the most dramatic narrow section) requires about 3 miles (4.8 km) in, for a 6-mile (9.7 km) round trip. Big Springs is about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) in, the furthest most day hikers go without a permit.
Can I pick up gear the evening before?
Yes—if your sizes are available, you can pick up gear the afternoon before your hike (as early as 3:00 PM MST). This is especially useful for early morning starts. If you're doing the top-down Narrows route with a pre-dawn shuttle, evening pickup is essentially required.
Do I need a permit for the bottom-up Narrows hike?
No permit is required for the bottom-up route. You can simply take the Zion Canyon Shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava and start hiking. Permits are required for the top-down route and overnight trips.
What about flash floods?
Flash floods are the primary safety hazard in The Narrows and can occur even when skies above the canyon are clear. Water levels can rise 12 feet in minutes during a storm anywhere in the 344-square-mile Virgin River watershed. Always check conditions at the Zion Visitor Center or with staff before heading in. During August, it's recommended to hike early and exit the river by early afternoon ahead of typical afternoon storm activity.
Cancellation Policy
Full payment is charged at time of booking. Cancellations more than 3 days from your rental will receive a full refund. Cancellations made within 72 hours prior to your rental are non-refundable. If Zion Adventures® cancels due to weather, you will receive a full refund.
Availability
Reviews
Location
Address
36 Lion Boulevard
Springdale, UT, 84767
US
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