Riverside Walk
Traveling upriver, the trail passes through
surprisingly lush vegetation—a desert swamp.
Overflow from occasional cloudbursts and spring
runoff leaves the low ground perpetually moist,
creating a cooler, greener microclimate of ferns
and mosses. Without actually seeing a flash flood,
hikers here can experience the results of flooding
and witness how the Virgin River pumps life
into a desert canyon.
The paved trail is mostly accessible. Wheelchairs
may have some difficulty on short steep grades.
The paved trail ends at the river, but if you are
prepared to get your feet wet, and if conditions
permit, you may be able to continue up into the
Narrows. Always check at the Visitor Center for
current weather conditions before going into the
Narrows. Flash floods can be deadly. Your safety
is your responsibility.
| Distance (round trip) | 2 miles/1.5 hours |
| Ascent | 57 feet |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Accessible; some short steep grades in the
second half may require assistance. Portions of
the trail may be closed in winter because of ice
falling from above.
