Riverside Walk to the Narrows

The Riverside Walk is the gentlest, most universally beloved trail in Zion. A paved 2.2-mile out-and-back from the Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop along the Virgin River, ending exactly where the canyon walls close in and the river becomes the trail (the start of the Narrows). Wheelchair accessible, stroller-friendly, kid-comforting, and hung with hanging gardens of maidenhair fern and seep willow — the only paved trail in the canyon's interior.

For families who aren't going to wade the Narrows: this is the version. You'll see the same canyon walls, hear the same river, walk under the same hanging gardens, and turn around at exactly the moment the trail demands waterproof boots. Nobody's exhausted, everybody's seen the famous slot.

For everyone: it's the best stroller-friendly trail in Zion. For wheelchair users: paved the full distance with benches. For dogs: not allowed (Pa'rus is the only Zion trail open to dogs). For first-time visitors: the perfect afternoon to recover from the morning's bigger hike.

Get on the first or second shuttle of the day in summer (6 AM in peak) to have it nearly to yourself; by mid-morning it gets crowded but stays pleasant.