The Subway Guide
Hike Through Nature's Underground Masterpiece: The Subway Guide
The Subway, located in Zion National Park, is a world-renowned slot canyon hike that offers an unforgettable adventure through a sculpted sandstone tunnel carved by the Left Fork of North Creek. This challenging but rewarding hike takes you through a narrow, water-filled canyon, showcasing the power of nature's artistry. Prepare to wade, swim, and scramble your way through this geological masterpiece. The Subway's formation began millions of years ago with the deposition of sandstone layers. Over time, the Left Fork of North Creek carved its way through these layers, creating the unique slot canyon we see today. The canyon's distinctive "subway" shape is due to the differential erosion of the sandstone, with harder layers forming the roof and softer layers being eroded away by the water. The area has been protected as part of Zion National Park since 1919, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Hiking The Subway requires a permit obtained through a lottery system due to its popularity and the need to protect the fragile environment. There are two main routes: the "top-down" route, which involves rappelling and swimming, and the "bottom-up" route, which is a longer hike with less technical difficulty. Both routes require wading through cold water, so appropriate footwear and clothing are essential. The hike offers stunning views of waterfalls, emerald pools, and the unique rock formations of the canyon. While there are no specific culinary traditions within the canyon itself, Springdale, located just outside Zion National Park, offers a wide variety of dining options.
Transportation
Access to The Subway (both top-down and bottom-up routes) requires a permit and involves driving to specific trailheads outside of the main Zion Canyon. For the top-down route, you'll need to drive to the Wildcat Canyon Trailhead. For the bottom-up route, you'll drive to the Left Fork Trailhead. Shuttle services are available from Springdale to these trailheads, but reservations are highly recommended. Check the Zion National Park website for the most up-to-date information on shuttle schedules and trailhead access.