First Time in South West

And I love the lodge too. Great outside deck to have dinner or just a drink.

One of my favorite spots. Spent three nights (at the lodge) the last trip a couple years ago.

Have managed the Narrows hike twice, the first time with my kids in 1998 (around 13 and 16 at the time), the last trip with Linda.

Each time we made it as far as the Orderville junction when a member of the party pooped out. First time it was the 13 year old. Last time was (I admit), partly my fault.

I forgot how strenuous it can be, and didn't bring along some snack food for energy replenishment and to fight off "the hungers".

That and one of the party developed some blisters. Thankfully I carry a small first aid kit in my pack, did have one granola bar rattling around the bottom of the pack, and was able to promise a nice big drink at the end of the hike; I was therefore given a suspended sentence and allowed to live to hike another day. Fortunately the unfortunate incident of Shafer Trail had been mostly forgotten by then.

I will say, all four of us really want to do it again (just with a little better preparation and probably renting the special booties this time).

I forgot to mention; things are going to get wet. Expect to be up to your waist at one or more points... I like to put my wallet and money in a ziploc bag, and for sure you want to protect any electronics (car key fob, etc.)

If you have a day pack, expect to have to carry it overhead for maybe 20-30 yards at one point.

If you have a camera... be very very careful.

One last shot....

http://donandlindacasey.com/images/ZNV5.jpg
Narrows of the Virgin River, Zion National Park: Don Casey

Let me ponder your itinerary a bit and I may have some other suggestions later this weekend.