The Subway, officially known as the Left Fork North Creek, is one of Zion National Park’s most thrilling and picturesque hikes. The Subway hike Zion has two routes: the top-down very strenuous canyoneering route, which requires rappelling skills, route finding, and swimming.
We will discuss the Zion subway bottom-up hiking route which is still strenuous and challenging but does not require rappelling skills or swimming. This route will require route finding, hiking through water, and scrambling over large boulders. Both options require permits.
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Zion National Park Subway Hike Permit Process
A permit for the Subway Trail can be obtained through the Zion National Park lottery system.
Seasonal Advance Lottery
Overview: The seasonal advance lottery allows hikers to plan their trip months in advance. This lottery is ideal for those who have specific travel dates and want to secure a permit early.
How to Apply:
- Application Period: Apply months in advance of your desired hiking month. For instance, apply in February for hiking options from April through June. See the reservation periods on recreation.gov.
- Application Process: Go to the Zion National Park permit system website and create an account if you don’t already have one. Fill out the application form with your preferred dates and group details.
- Fee: There is a non-refundable application fee of $6 per group (max 12 per group).
- Selection: Winners are chosen at random and notified via email. If selected, you will be given a window of time to pay the permit fee, which currently is $10.00 per person
- Permit Pickup: If you do win you must pick up your permit in person at the Zion Wilderness Permit Desk at the Visitor Center the day before, or the day of the permit entry date (currently open 8 – 5 daily, allow 20 minutes to get permit).
Important Notes:
- Each application can include up to three preferred dates to increase the chances of obtaining a permit
- Ensure all group members’ information is accurate as changes cannot be made once the application is submitted
Daily Lottery
Overview: The daily lottery is for those who are flexible with their dates or who may have decided to hike The Subway on short notice.
How to Apply:
- Application Time: Apply two days before your desired hiking date. The lottery opens at midnight and closes at 3 pm MST.
- Application Process: Access the Zion National Park permit system website and submit your application.
- Fee: There is a non-refundable application fee of $6 per group, similar to the seasonal lottery.
- Selection and Notification: The draw is conducted the afternoon before the hike date. Winners are notified at 4 pm MST via email and must pay the $10.00 permit fee by 11 PM MST on the night of the lottery.
- Permit Pickup: If you do win you must pick up your permit in person at the Zion Wilderness Permit Desk at the Visitor Center the day before, or the day of the permit entry date (currently open 8 – 5 daily, allow 20 minutes to get permit).
The Subway Hike Location and How to Get There
Location: Situated in the Kolob Terrace section of Zion National Park.
Trailhead: Left Fork Trailhead (Kolob Terrance section of Zion National Park) – 35-60 minutes from Zion National Park Visitor Center depending on traffic.
Start at the Zion Visitor Center: Head west on UT-9 for 12 miles, reaching Virgin, Utah.
Virgin, Utah: Take the Kolab Reservoir Road to the right as you enter the town. Follow this road for a little over 8 miles to the Left Fork Trailhead, the parking lot is on the right side of the road.
The Subway Trail Stats and Overview
- Distance: Approximately 9.0 miles round trip
- Type: Out and back
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Elevation Gain: about 1300 feet
- Duration: 6-10 hours (if experienced and in shape can do it faster)
- Permits: Required -Yes – Subway Permit Information
*Hiking stats per National Park Service (there are a lot of differences of opinion out there)
The Subway Hike Zion Details
The Zion Subway bottom-up hike descends into the canyon and follows the stream to the Subway’s unique tunnel-like formations. This approach allows hikers to experience the canyon’s beauty without the technical challenges of the top-down route.
- Start: Your adventure begins at the Left Fork Trailhead, where you’ll start on a gentle downhill path through a forested area, heading toward the Great West Canyon Rim.
- Canyon Rim: At the canyon rim, prepare for a steep descent. The trail drops 400 feet down to the creek bed. Remember, you’ll need to climb this section on your return journey!
- The Junction: The junction is marked and easily noticeable as you descend. Here, you will turn to follow the path that runs parallel to the creek bed. The trail continues for about 3.5 miles, involving numerous creek crossings. It’s wise to take a photo, use GPS, or pay close attention to this area. On the return trip, hikers often miss this junction, inadvertently continuing further down the canyon and missing the junction exit.
- Points of Interest Along the Creek:
- Dinosaur Tracks: About 2 miles in, on the left side of the creek, look for a layer of blackish rock. Here, you can find several well-preserved dinosaur tracks—a prehistoric highlight not to be missed.
- Waterfalls: As you approach The Subway, you’ll encounter a series of terraced waterfalls.
- Points of Interest Along the Creek:
- The Subway: The trail takes a sharp right bend, and then, suddenly, The Subway comes into view. Continue following the creek to reach this iconic section of the canyon. The Subway is famous for its unique, tubular shape carved by eons of water flow, offering a breathtaking experience and exceptional photographic opportunities.
Best Time to Hike The Subway Trail
The trail is open year-round, so it depends on the type of experience you are looking for and ensuring you are experienced, have the right gear, and are prepared for the conditions. I would also talk to the ranges at the wilderness desk to get the latest information. Here are the guidelines for each season:
Subway Hike in Spring
Pros:
- The landscape is vibrant with fresh greenery, providing a stunning backdrop for photographs.
- Cooler temperatures make for a comfortable hiking experience.
Cons:
- High, Cold Water: Spring runoff significantly increases water levels and decreases water temperatures, which can make creek crossings challenging and potentially dangerous.
- Flood Conditions: Fast-flowing water can obstruct access and make it difficult for some of the most scenic parts of the hike.
Subway Hike in Summer
Pros:
- Long daylight hours provide ample time for the hike and photography.
- The water levels are generally lower and warmer, making creek crossings easier and more pleasant.
Cons:
- Extreme Heat: Temperatures in Zion can soar, making the hike particularly strenuous; starting early helps.
- Exposure to Sun: Exposure to direct sunlight can lead to overheating and dehydration if proper precautions are not taken.
Subway Hike in the Fall
Pros:
- Ideal temperatures and generally stable weather conditions make for a comfortable hiking experience.
- Fall colors transform the canyon, offering spectacular photography opportunities with vibrant leaves contrasting against the red rock.
Cons:
- Popularity: This is a peak season for Zion, so expect higher numbers of visitors, which might affect the solitude of your hike.
- Variable Weather: Later in the fall, weather can change quickly, potentially leading to sudden cold spells.
Subway Hike in the Winter
Pros:
- Fewer visitors result in a more solitary experience, perfect for those seeking quiet.
- Snow and ice can add a dramatic element to the canyon’s already stunning scenery, creating beautiful winter landscapes.
Cons:
Cold Conditions: Temperatures can be very low, and the presence of ice and snow makes the hike more challenging and slippery.
Shorter Days: Limited daylight hours reduce the time available for hiking and necessitate an early start.
Tips for a Successful Subway Hike
- Gear: Wear quick-drying clothes and sturdy hiking boots. Renting canyoneering boots, neoprene socks, and a hiking stick/poles from outfitters in Springdale is a popular option. Use Zion Outfitters as they have a gear package for each season that is reasonably priced.
- Check Conditions: Always check the weather and flash flood risk before heading out. Avoid hiking if there’s a significant risk of flash floods.
- Pack Essentials: Bring a waterproof bag for essentials like food, water, a first aid kit, and dry clothing.
- Start Early: Begin your hike early in the day to ensure ample time to enjoy the hike.
- Extra Clothes: Leave a set of dry clothes and shoes in your car to change after the hike.
- Leave no Trace: Pack out all trash, including food wrappers and fruit peels, and use the restrooms at the trailhead, as there are no facilities once in the Subway.
What to Pack – Zion Subway Bottom Up Hike
Wear layers you can remove as it warms up. The water is cold so be prepared. Here are some suggestions depending on the season, I do recommend renting the gear above, especially in the colder seasons.
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- Tops Women: Quick-Dry – Tank, Short Sleeve T-Shirt, Long Sleeve T-Shirt
- Tops Men: Quick-Dry – Tank, Short Sleeve T-Shirt, Long Sleeve T-Shirt
- Fleece Women
- Fleece Men
- Packable Jacket Women
- Packable Jacket Men
- Pants Women: Quick-Dry (convertible to shorts) or Leggings
- Pants Men: Quick-Dry (convertible to shorts)
- Shorts Women: Quick Dry Short
- Shorts Men: Quick Dry Short
- Socks: Neoprene
- Hat:
- Sun Hat
- Beanie
- Sunscreen and Lip balm
- Water Bottle or Hydration Pack (3 Liters per Person)
- Food and Snacks
- First Aid Kit
- Gloves
- Hiking stick/poles
- Dry waterproof bag
Subway Trail and Zion Water Safety
From the Utah Department of Environmental Quality for the Subway and Zion:
Harmful algal mats (benthic cyanobacteria) are present and produce toxins. Avoid touching or disturbing algal mats. Avoid primary contact recreation (swimming and submerging the head) when recreating in this area. Do not drink in-stream water anywhere in the park. If you must filter water, do so directly from a spring source.
The bottom-up hike to The Subway offers a spectacular way to experience one of Zion’s most famous landscapes without requiring technical gear and canyoneering skills. Are you ready for your adventure?
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