How to Get a Narrows Overnight Permit
Camp in the heart of Zion's most famous slot canyon, where the Virgin River has carved a corridor so deep that thousand-foot walls block the sun.
Check Availability1-2 nights
Duration
16 miles
Distance
400'
Elevation Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
About Narrows Overnight
The Narrows Overnight permit allows camping at one of 12 designated riverside sites along the Virgin River's North Fork. This transforms the famous top-down hike into a two-day wilderness experience, giving you time to explore side canyons and photograph the slot in changing light. All overnight trips must start from Chamberlain's Ranch (north) and exit at Temple of Sinawava (south). Same-day permits are rarely available; plan to reserve months ahead for peak season.
The Narrows Overnight transforms an already iconic hike into a complete wilderness immersion. While day hikers turn back at Big Springs, overnight permit holders venture into the most remote and spectacular upper sections of the canyon. You'll fall asleep to the sound of moving water and wake up to walls glowing orange in the first light.
The Experience
There's something surreal about making camp in the bottom of a slot canyon. The river flows past your feet while walls taller than skyscrapers rise on both sides. At night, you see only a narrow ribbon of stars directly overhead. Dawn arrives late here. The canyon holds the darkness until sunlight finally crests the rim and the walls ignite in color. By the time day hikers appear, you've already had the canyon to yourself for hours.
From Chamberlain's Ranch, the first 3 miles follow a sandy road before dropping into the riverbed. The canyon walls grow steadily higher as you pass North Fork Falls (bypass on the left) and approach Deep Creek confluence at mile 9.
The 12 designated campsites are spread between miles 6 and 13. Sites 1-6 offer more solitude in the upper canyon, while sites 8-12 are positioned in the famous narrow sections. Wall Street, with its towering thousand-foot walls just 20 feet apart, lies between sites 10 and 11.
The final push past Orderville Canyon and along the Riverside Walk completes the 16-mile journey at Temple of Sinawava.
What to Expect
16-mile point-to-point route over 1-2 nights
Constant river wading in 56-68°F water
12 designated campsites with fire rings and pit toilets
No maintained trail, the river IS the route
Solitude in the upper canyon, crowds below Big Springs
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Permit Requirements
Maximum 12 people per group
Camping only at designated numbered sites
WAG bags required for human waste (no pit toilets at all sites)
No fires except in provided fire rings
Permits void if river flow exceeds 150 CFS
One night minimum, two nights maximum
Gear & Preparation
Required Gear
- •Dry bags for sleeping gear and electronics
- •Canyon shoes with good drainage and grip
- •Walking stick or trekking poles
- •WAG bags for waste (pack everything out)
- •Water purification (river water is your only source)
Recommended Gear
- •Neoprene socks for cold water
- •Wetsuit or dry top in spring and fall
- •Camp shoes for evenings
- •Tarp for rain protection (camps have no shelters)
- •Extra dry layers in waterproof bag
Hazards & Safety
Flash floods. Canyon offers no escape. Check weather for entire watershed.
Hypothermia from extended cold water exposure
Deep pools requiring swimming (some sites require crossing deep water)
Slippery bowling-ball rocks in riverbed
No cell service or emergency communication
Best Time to Visit
Late May through September offers warmest water (65-68°F) but highest flash flood risk during monsoon season (July-August). Spring and fall are colder but more stable weather.
100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a Narrows Overnight permit?
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Narrows Overnight permits require advance reservations. Book online as soon as reservations open for your desired dates.
When is the best time to visit Narrows Overnight?
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Late May through September offers warmest water (65-68°F) but highest flash flood risk during monsoon season (July-August). Spring and fall are colder but more stable weather.
How difficult is Narrows Overnight?
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Backpackers comfortable with extended river travel, cold water immersion, and primitive camping conditions.
What gear do I need for Narrows Overnight?
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Essential gear includes: Dry bags for sleeping gear and electronics, Canyon shoes with good drainage and grip, Walking stick or trekking poles, WAG bags for waste (pack everything out), Water purification (river water is your only source).
Don't Miss Your Narrows Overnight Permit
Cancellations happen every day. PermitSnag monitors Narrows Overnight availability 24/7 and alerts you the moment a spot opens up.
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