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| The Subway |
Paul and I learned about The Subway hike while visiting Zion National Park in 2012. After researching this semi-technical hike that goes into a slot canyon, we decided to get additional training in canyoneering and rappelling to be better prepared and safe. We acquired a permit several weeks in advance. There are two routes to reach the Subway. One starts at the Left Fork Trailhead, 8.1 miles above Virgin, hiking a steep descent into the canyon and then 4 1/2 miles upstream boulder hopping. We hiked from the top starting at Wildcat Trailhead, on the Kolob Reservoir Road about 15.3 miles above the town of Virgin. We reserved a shuttle that dropped us off at the top (Wildcat) and we left our car at the bottom (West Fork). To complete the hike you wade/swim/scramble/climb/rappel down the Left Fork of North Creek. The water was cold in July but not cold enough that I needed a wet suit. We were happy to have rented helmets, harness, rope, and belay devices and to have practiced using these items a few times prior to doing this hike. There were good anchors set at each place requiring ropes. The hike took a full 8 hours and 15 mins and we took few breaks. The last 4 1/2 miles of scrambling over boulders seemed like it would never end and used up a lot of energy. Someone with good upper body strength could do this hike with only ropes but I felt much safer and more comfortable rappelling. The drops were from approx. 8' to 20'. As with any slot canyon, the weather is a big factor so that you do not encounter flash floods.
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| Steep descent into canyon. |
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| The first drop. Awkward angle. |
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| The final rappel approx. 20' |
This is a bucket list item for some hikers. On a perfect day it's gorgeous 'top to bottom'(permit required). On a day with thunder showers a flash flood can kill you in this slot canyon. Over-prepare, over-plan & over-research this area.
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