Once known as the Gateway to the Narrows, the Zion Riverside Walk in Zion National Park is a family favorite. Only a two mile round trip trek, this popular trail is fun for all ages of the family. If you plan a family vacation to Zion National Park in Utah, make sure to set aside a few hours to check out the Riverside Walk. Â Estimated to take only one hour and a half round trip, you can fit this in with your busy vacation schedule easily.
The trail begins at the farthest end of the canyon, called the Temple of Sinawava and begins the return trek at the beginning of the Zion Narrows Trail. The ease and beauty of this paved and level path is the reason it is one of the most popular trails in Zion National Park. Wheelchair and stroller accessible, shady, and rated as an easy trail the Riverside Walk is often a bit crowded, especially during the spring and summer season.
To make your visit to the Riverside Walk easy and convenient, you can catch the Zion Canyon Shuttle at the Visitors Center to take you to the Temple of Sinawava. Before beginning your hike you can fill water bottles at the fountain and take advantage of the restrooms conveniently located at the trailhead.
While on the Riverside Walk, you will find many trailside exhibits which tell you a great deal about the plants and habitats along the canyon. Hanging gardens and desert swamps are just some of the microhabitats you will see when you hike this trail. Some of the wildlife you will encounter includes the endemic Zion snail, rock squirrels and mule deer, tree frogs, tiger salamanders and many other native creatures. The handy information kiosks make this a self guided hike that provides a great deal of information and interesting facts about the canyon, river, and Zion National Park.
There are many wonderful sights along the Zion Riverside Walk trail , towering monoliths, the Virgin River, lush plant life and seepage areas to enthrall all family members. While the Riverwalk is a hiking trail it is also paved and has nearly no change in elevation. So there is no need for you to pack hiking boots or big backpacks. All you need to tour the Riverside Walk is some bottled water and a good pair of shoes. One other thing to make note of is that while the Riverside Walk is paved, it often gets sand on it making it a bit difficult to maneuver strollers and wheelchairs so plan accordingly. If you have wheels that are made for off-terrain, it will make the trek smoother.
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