Description
No, this isn’t Coyote Gulch or the Zion Narrows.
This 38-mile trip requires wading down the Paria river – in some ways similar to those other famous hikes, but more remote and isolated. There aren’t great day hiking options here, and they only allow 20 backpackers a day on the trail, so this place feels really special.
Due to the nature of the trail (or lack of), the hiking is slow, but it is nothing short of spectacular and worth every ounce of effort. I’ve done this trip twice now and would go back for thirds in a heartbeat.
Here’s a few tips/things to note:
☀️ Your feet will be wet the whole time. The best shoe choice is an old pair of sneakers paired with neoprene socks.
☀️ Advanced permits are required and can be reserved three months in advance.
☀️ You are required to pack out all of your poop in wag bags, so if that grosses you out, this trip isn’t for you.
☀️ Filtering water can be challenging depending on how much sediment is in the river during your trip. For this reason and the flash flood risks, I consider this to be a trip for more experienced backpackers.
I talk about all this and more in my trail guide.
Would you like to do this trip?
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Grab these resources
Van Life Starter Kit: https://bearfoottheory.com/van-life-starter-kit/
Outdoor Trip Planning Toolkit: https://bearfoottheory.com/subscribe-outdoor-trip-planning-toolkit/