Spots / North America
The Subway
Utah, United States — Zion's iconic tube-shaped slot, with emerald pools and a top-down route that demands a permit and good route-finding.
Photo: Zion National Park (NPS) · Public domain, Wikimedia Commons
Spots / North America
Utah, United States — Zion's iconic tube-shaped slot, with emerald pools and a top-down route that demands a permit and good route-finding.
Photo: Zion National Park (NPS) · Public domain, Wikimedia Commons
Few canyon photographs are as recognisable as The Subway: a perfectly tube-shaped corridor of sculpted sandstone holding chains of emerald pools. The top-down route through Zion National Park is a true canyoneering day — short rappels, cold swims and serious route-finding — and one of the most sought-after permits in the American Southwest.
The top-down route involves a steep, trail-less descent to the canyon and a long hike out — navigation skill is essential, and a permit is mandatory.
Short rappels, mandatory cold swims and down-climbs lead through the sculpted corridor. None of the obstacles are extreme, but the cold water, length and route-finding make it a committing day that rewards preparation.