If you have some climbing confidence, Orderville can be a nice alternative to the 16-mile Narrows hike. It's 11 miles (versus 16 miles), there's way less competition for a permit, and you still get to see a really good part of The Narrows.

Beware, this is not a simple hike for every biped. I went with a Wasatch Mountain Club trip, and I definitely needed the expertise of our leader to negotiate the tricky spots — and coax me off a ledge 12 feet above a pool of murky water (see video above).There are some rock cracks you have to shinney down ("chimneying"), and you'll need to set up rope at a couple of points. Go with someone who has gone before so you are aware of hazards, and know that water changes the canyon constantly.

With enough preparation and organization, Orderville can be a great bridge from hiking to canyoneering.

Permit details at the Zion National Park Website. You need to reserve permits three months before the month of your trip or get in line for a walk-up permit, which the park backcountry office starts releasing at 8 a.m. one day in advance. For a Saturday trip, I'd get in line no later than 4 a.m. Friday.

Video by Tanner Morrill.

View more photos in this gallery.

— Erin Alberty