Big Springs is a 12-foot, triple cascade and important hiking landmark in Zion National Park's "The Narrows." The Narrows is a world-famous hike through slot canyons carved out by Utah's Virgin River. This waterfall marks the northernmost point of access for visitors who hike the 4.2-mile bottom-up route and is the only source of safe drinking water during the hike. Big Springs can also be accessed via a 16-mile top-down trek from Chamberlain's Ranch to the Temple of Sinawava, which requires a Wilderness Permit for either a single-day hiking trip or an overnight backpacking trip. If you opt for the top-down route, you will also encounter North Fork Falls in addition to Mystery Falls.
Visiting this waterfall requires a decent amount of planning and hiking skill. Big Springs is beautiful, but the hike itself, which primarily takes place IN the Virgin River, is part of what makes it so magnificent.
If you want to visit Big Springs, there are a few additional things to note. The hike is considered strenuous, and a permit is required if hiking top-down. Being in a slot canyon with some walls only 20 feet apart, the risk of flash flooding is high. Lastly, the water is not safe to drink except for at Big Springs due to the presence of toxic cyanobacteria, so you will need to carry all of your drinking water with you.
For a trail map, click here.
Google Location: Temple of Sinawava, Zion Canyon Scenic Dr, Springdale, UT 84779
GPS Location: 37.3311° N, 112.9570° W
Parking: Lot
Total Hike: 9.4 miles
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: $35 (Zion National Park entrance fee)
Open: 24/7
Swimming: Yes
Pets: No
GPS Location: 37.3311° N, 112.9570° W
Parking: Lot
Total Hike: 9.4 miles
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: $35 (Zion National Park entrance fee)
Open: 24/7
Swimming: Yes
Pets: No
