Zion National Park Slot Canyons

Fall is gearing up for a visit. That means it’s a great time to plan your slot canyon hike in Zion National Park. After Utah’s monsoon season winds down and before it gets really cold, Zion is stunning in its fall color–and the slot canyons are breathtaking adventures as well.

Zion’s two most famous slot canyons are the Zion Narrows and the Subway. People flock to hike both each year. Here’s what you need to know if you want to be among their number.

1) Be prepared. On both hikes, you’ll get wet, hike right in the water, and be physically challenged. You can hike upstream in the Narrows from Riverside Walk and only go as far as you want, but you’ll still be hiking in the Virgin River itself. As for the Subway, ropes are necessary for a successful trip.

2) Consider hiring a guide. Never done a slot canyon before? You’ll almost definitely need a guide for the Subway. There are great local companies, such as Zion Adventures and Zion Rock & Mountain Guides, that can help.

3) Get a permit. This can be a slow process during the peak season, but it’s a necessity. Check in with Zion Visitors Center or online (Narrows and Subway) for details.

Zion's Subway

4) Check the weather! Flash floods are nothing to joke about.

5) Have a backup plan if permits aren’t available, weather doesn’t cooperate, or someone in your party realizes they just can’t take on this kind of a hike.

6) Plan ahead. The Subway is 9.5 miles roundtrip, and the Narrows is 16 miles if you do the entire route, which for most people is an overnight trip. And these are not flat, paved trail hikes.

7) Smile! You’re on a great adventure in some of the world’s renowned slot canyons. Treasure the experience.

Zion Narrows