The Subway (Bottom Up)

This is the non‑technical (hike‑only, no rappels) bottom‑up route for accessing the Subway. If you are looking for the technical, top‑down route, that is a different approach which does require rappelling. This hike requires a permit and is an out‑and‑back route that begins and ends at the Left Fork Trailhead in Zion National Park. It is also known as the Left Fork of North Creek – bottom‑up route, which is the name used for permits on the park’s website. The trail crosses the river several times, and during periods of high runoff these crossings can be tricky, tiring, or even hazardous. It is a long day, and route‑finding can be difficult—especially after dark. Many groups have missed the exit, become exhausted, been caught by high water, or even required rescue after getting stuck in quicksand. Most groups will avoid these issues with proper preparation, but the hike should not be underestimated. The bottom‑up route leads to the Subway proper, the curved, tunnel‑like section that gives the Subway its name. This area is very scenic but also quite short, so expect a long hike for a brief but iconic reward. The upper end of the Subway proper ends at the base of a waterfall. Above that waterfall lies the technical section of the canyon, which cannot be accessed from this route. Everything above the falls must be reached via the top‑down technical route, which requires rappelling. While the upper section is interesting, it does not contain any additional tunnel‑like “Subway” features. If your goal is to see the famous Subway section, the bottom‑up route will accomplish that.

Begin you hike from the Left Fork Trailhead. There is a clear trail heading east from the parking lot/ trailhead. This will follow the plateau for a bit then it descends down a rocky switchback section to the river. On return/exit you will hike back up this trail--this then becomes the famous and dreaded up climb portion of the Subway Exit. Once down to the river follow the trail up stream. For a while there is a clear trail but eventually it will get less obvious and you will be hiking in-river. The park ask that you stay in the watercourse rather than cutting trails on the banks. The Subway proper--the curved, tunnel-like section is at the very end of the hike and you will know it when you see it. This is a very scenic, but short section. Enjoy your time here. Water levels will vary, but please not it can be slippery and there are a few potholes that you can step in so watch your step in the Subway.

Return the way you came by hiking down stream and reversing your course. At the point where you are supposed to hike back up to the plateau there is a sign (unless it gets washed out by floods) that can be easily missed--especially if hiking in the dark. Have headlamps with you, a good GPS/mapping system, and the tracks downloaded. Many groups have missed this turn both in the dark and in the daylight.