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ZION NATIONAL PARK — Zion National Park officials are reminding visitors that river flows are still strong at the Narrows, even after the spring snowmelt has mostly come to an end.
"Visiting there is no walk in the park," park spokesman Jonathan Shafer said on Friday. "Water is running high, fast and cold."
The popular trail, which allows hikers to wade through parts of the Virgin River, reopened on June 19 after high snowmelt levels forced a two-month closure beginning on April 8. Park rangers close the route once the river reaches a flow of 150 cubic feet per second, and keep it closed until it's below the threshold for at least 24 hours.
This year's strong snowmelt led to flows as strong as 3,270 cubic feet per second in May. Its flow has now dropped down to about 70 cubic feet per second just in time for the busy July 4 holiday. However, park officials note that walking the route can still be "challenging" with frequent mid-thigh-deep crossings and chest-deep pools at 70 cubic feet per second.
Shafer said visitors should consider wearing wetsuits and "appropriate footwear" while trekking through the water. He also recommends that visitors use hiking poles for better balance.
The Narrows is expected to be busy during the holiday, especially with a forecast calling for temperatures to remain in the upper 90s and lower 100s this week. Park officials recommend visitors drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and watch for signs of heat stress because of this week's forecast.
As is the case with all of the summer holidays, park rangers are also warning visitors to prepare for long lines at park entrance stations and trailheads, as well as visitor centers and bathrooms.
"Heavy traffic" is expected to linger within the park and in Springdale during the holiday. Temporary closures at the park's east and south vehicle entrances are also possible.
