The Subway (Zion National Park) facts for kids
The Subway is a super cool and unique slot canyon located inside Zion National Park in Utah, United States. It's famous for its special tube-like shape, which looks a bit like a subway tunnel. This amazing natural spot is part of the larger Zion Wilderness area.
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What is The Subway?
The Subway is actually a short part of a much bigger canyon called the Great West Canyon. This canyon sits between two large peaks, the North Guardian Angel and the South Guardian Angel. These peaks are found on the Kolob Plateau. A stream called the Left Fork North Creek flows right through The Subway and the Great West Canyon.
The name "The Subway" comes from its shape. It has a tube-like, undercut section of canyon. This means the water has carved out the rock in a way that makes it look like a tunnel or a subway tube.
How to Visit The Subway
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Even though The Subway itself is short, getting there takes a long hike. People who enjoy Canyoneering often visit The Subway. Canyoneering is an exciting sport where you explore canyons using skills like hiking, climbing, and sometimes even swimming.
There are two main ways to visit The Subway:
The Downstream Route (Harder)
This route is for experienced hikers. It's a one-way trip that goes downstream. You start at the Wildcat Canyon Trailhead. This path involves more challenges, like rappelling and swimming through cold water.
The Upstream Route (Easier)
This route is simpler and lets you explore the lower part of The Subway. You start at the Left Fork Trailhead. This path is mostly hiking and wading through the creek.
Both trailheads are located just off Kolob Terrace Road. This road runs north from Utah State Route 9 in the town of Virgin. It goes through Zion National Park and eventually connects to other roads that lead to Cedar City.
Getting a Permit
To visit The Subway, you need a special Back Country Permit. You can get these permits at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. However, they can be hard to get during busy times of the year because many people want to see this amazing place!
See also
In Spanish: The Subway para niños
