See the National Parks of the Southwest by RV

by Shellie Bailey-Shah
Photo: Robin Mueller

DAY ELEVEN

What to do?

The Narrows is an unforgettable gorge with soaring walls, sandstone grottos, natural springs, and hanging gardens in the upper reaches of Zion Canyon. It measures 16 miles long, up to 2,000 feet deep, and at points, only 20 to 30 feet wide. However, it’s a hike not to be attempted lightly.

You begin the hike on the paved Riverside Walk that follows the Virgin River. This trail is popular and quite crowded. The herd starts to thin when you reach the river crossing. From this point on, hiking The Narrows means hiking in the river. In fact, at least 60-percent of the hike is spent wading, walking or swimming in the water. We ventured about a mile into the gorge. My youngest son spent much of the time on his father’s shoulders because of the deep water. If you have teens, this would be a perfect adventure hike for them.

KidTripster Tip: Before you attempt to hike The Narrows, make sure to check with park rangers at the visitor center. There is a real and serious threat of flash flooding in the gorge, especially in mid-summer and fall. It’s safest to hike when there’s little chance of rain in the forecast, and the river is low, clear, and relatively warm. If you heed the warnings and prepare well for the conditions, this hike likely will be the most memorable of your trip! However, I would only attempt the full hike with older kids.

Where to stay?

Return to Watchman Campground.

Where to eat?

Head into the town of Springdale via the free town shuttle or cook at your campsite.

DAY TWELVE

What to do?

It’s one last push north as you drive 6 hours back to Salt Lake City.

KidTripster Tip: If you’re a list checker and would like to visit all the national parks in Utah, one remains: Capitol Reef National Park. You could take a detour on your way back to Salt Lake City and add two more days to your itinerary to visit this park.

Where to stay?

You’ll come full circle as you drive into Salt Lake City KOA, this time as an experienced RV family!

DAY THIRTEEN

Say goodbye to your home on wheels and head to the airport. After savoring the memories, start planning your next RV adventure. Need some ideas? Check out KidTripster’s Outdoors section for more itineraries.

Looking to get out into the Great Outdoors? Consider renting an RV or camper with our friends at Outdoorsy. It’s the Airbnb of RVs, matching RV owners with would-be renters. Use this link and get an extra $50 off your booking just for being a KidTripster fan! In addition, KidTripster will get some coffee money from Outdoorsy at no cost to you.

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