One of Utah’s top tourist draws, Zion National Park rates as one of the best national parks in America and appeals to hiking enthusiasts looking for spectacular scenery along relatively easy trails. Adventurous visitors can navigate the park’s colorful canyons when tackling some of it’s iconic trails, including a 5-mile hike to Angels Landing. The Lower Emerald Pool Trail is an easy 1 mile round trip and the Weeping Rock Trail has less mileage (0.5 miles) than it does stairs but they both provide a cool, shady environment almost all year which are great for kids or grandparents that don’t have as much hiking experience! Wade all the way to back of The Narrows, which is where adventure seekers can really get into some hiking and wading through water on the Virgin River.
Make the most of your visit to this park by getting on a Zion Canyon shuttle bus which is free. The shuttle leaves from the visitor center and drops visitors to several of the main attractions/trailheads on scenic Zion Canyon Drive – as it turns out, stops include one at it’s year-round lodge (Zion Lodge) Yes, you heard that right. And yes, people actually do stay there in winter. and even a popular stop called ‘Canyon Junction’ Kolob Canyons is a scenic drive to the northern part of Zion that has it’s own visitor center and provides an escape from the crowds.
If you’re incorporating Zion into a larger Utah national park journey, head out on the road and are soon connecting with other parks like Bryce Canyon as you travel through some of canyon country’s most iconic scenery via the adjoining but dramatically different beauty that is the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.
List of 18 Exciting Things to Do Near Zion National Park
1. Exploring Zion National Park’s Legendary Narrows
Most iconic of all is the The Narrows, a narrow section of Zion Canyon — above which reposed red and orange striated walls that are 1000 feet tall in place. Starting on the Riverside Walk, a 1-mile path that is wheelchair accessible (therefore not a trail), visitors can transition to an actual trail where the route follows along and meets up with constantly-shifting Virgin River Cottonwoods. Hikers will presumably have to wade, or even swim upstream through this canyon slot, as they take in the beauty of a region.
The Narrows are a popular area of the park during warmer sunnier weather when water levels lower and daytime temperatures more agreeable. But it is important to check with a park ranger for an update on the water flow rate, and remember that flash floods are possible. Bringing in new runoff, and cooler water during spring makes the hike less bearable for most people.
Veteran hikers recommend carrying waterproof bags for your valuables and wearing waterproof boots to keep from slipping on the wet rocks. An hiking stick also goes a long way. If you cannot, some outfitters in Springdale have rental gear (including dry pants) If you’re looking for fewer tourists, opt to hike part of the way before the largest crowds get there.
The Narrows – Ride the free Zion Canyon Shuttle to stop No. 9/Temple of Sinawava, which is as far upstream in Zion Canyon that regular shuttles go Hikers can then walk 10 miles round-trip to Big Stream without a permit. Waterpocket Fold: A 60-mile-long hype paradise, the Watercolored Stomach was created when 100 meters of rock bent into a thick upside-down keystone. For longer adventures from Chamberlain’s Ranch downstream at some point for dayeather requires permit Permit There are no rules for when you can use The Narrows but the last Zion Canyon Shuttle doesn’t run late into the evening, so keep this in mind for your return.
The Narrows are covered by the $35 seven-day park entrance pass.
2. Conquering Zion’s Angels Landing
The colorful lore of this immense rock formation is said to have been named by Methodist minister Frederick Vining Fisher, who in 1916 called it “much too precipitous” for any human landing there and thus could only be used as a point where the angel might land. Today, Angels Landing represents one of the most popular hikes in all of Zion, drawing visitors there with it’s panoramic vistas and steep climb. The 5.4-mile round trip trail gains 1,488 and involves steep through switchbacks, narrow ledges on the ridge Then a chain-guided section for the final stretch to reach summit.
Visitors must obtain a time-entry permit to hike Angels Landing in 2022, obtained by lottery on Recreation. gov and the fee for this application is $6 per person, along with another 3$ if you are selected. If you are a little unsure about your compadres it is advisable to stick with their alternative Scout Lookout. A stunning and challenging hike with lots of elevation gain culminating at this popular lookout, reached by hiking 3.6 miles on the West Rim Trail in Zion National Park without a permit!
Because of this final ascent, hikers with a fear of heights make the recommendation that one should likely skip it. Weather is an important factor of course, and it becomes a very dangerous trail should that be the case. A popular strategy for avoiding the busyness is to hike midweek.
Catch the Zion Canyon Shuttle to the Grotto Stop (No. 6) found on The Grotto Picnic Area.) From here, high above Emerald Pools that are green-blue when the sun shines on them (thus they’re named), hikers continue along West Rim Trail to Scout Lookout and for those with permits onto Angels Landing. The trail itself can be treacherous at points; it’s best hiked in spring, summer and early fall–late-fall ice creates dangerous conditions on the path. Pack a backpack with supplies as you’ll need to use the chains and won’t be able to hold your water bottle.
Angels Landing (permit required, but the hike is free with park admission).
3. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive: A Must-Experience Journey
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is the main section of road in Zion National Park, running through beautiful and legendary landmarks such as Weeping Rock, Angels Landing, the Court of The Patriarchs and all the way to Zions Lodge. The road usually is served by the park’s free shuttle bus system most of the year, a service that has helped reduce congestion and improve visitor experiences since 2000. The shuttle is up and running every day from March–November, with private vehicles allowed in for the winter.
How long is the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive?
The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive this is a 7-mile-long. The shuttle ride to the last stop — Temple of Sinawava, where you access the Narrows itself is around 45 minutes one way (a full lap clocking in at about 90 min).
Travelers always leave some good notes about the shuttle and how fast it moves by as well, at 5 to 10 minute intervals there’s no waiting for a parking spot in these areas of the canyon. Everyone has great things to say about the views along this drive — plus there are a fewer crowds in winter and visitors can actually take their own cars.
The shuttle service is covered with the $35 park fee at Zion, which grants unlimited reentry to the park for a week. Parking: In the visitor center, but it’s very good to ship early. You may also be able to find parking in Springdale where the seasonal shuttle from town connects visitors with Zion’s entrance.
Amenities on the Drive Zion Canyon Scenic Drive: Minimal amenities; plan ahead. The year round restaurant at Zion Lodge and seasonal Snack Bar Hydration stations are available at the Zion Human History Museum and in both park Visitor Centers for filling up reusable water bottles. Restrooms – These are located in several key areas of the park such as locations like The Visitor Center, Zion Lodge along with popular shuttle stops including: Weeping Rock and Temple Of Sinawava.
The shuttle stops at different trailheads for hikers, such as the Pa’rus Trail, Emerald Pools and on to Angels Landing, Riverside Walk. In the summer season, for example, the final shuttle departs just a little bit after sunset. To learn more about the shuttle times, stop locations and information on trailhead parking areas visit the Zion National Park website.
4. Pa’rus Trail: A Relaxed Stroll Through Zion
The Pa’rus Trail, a popular option for all ages usually teeming with families and casual walkers. This is one of the easiest hikes in Zion National Park as this 3.5-mile pathway entirely made up of smooth concrete, suitable for everyone from wheelchair users to moms pushing babies in strollers. The path connects the Zion Visitor Center to Canyon Junction and offers a slower-paced way for visitors to stop off at points in the park, including what includes stops at The South Campground and The Human History Museum–all without having to even get on that shuttle. The trail traces where the Virgin River flows, borrowing it’s name from a Paiute phrase meaning the river running through mountains.
Great for visitors with strollers, bikes or wheelchairs as well One of the few areas in the park where pets on leashes are allowed Others who have visited more recently rave about the trail’s iconic, picturesque bridges above the Virgin River; They also suggest you visit at sunrise or sunset to snag phenominal views and photos of Zion Canyon.
Follow the path from the Zion Visitor Center toward South Campground to get on this trail. If you start at Canyon Junction, walk approximately 100 yards down the underpass to reach the trailhead area. For more information about the Pa’rus Trail, please visit Zion National Park’s official website.
5. Riverside Walk: A Relaxed Stroll Along the Virgin River
For those who want to see the Virgin River in a more relaxed manner, sans hiking 16 miles through The Narrows little bro! Cutting through at the very last shuttle stop in Zion Canyon, Temple of Sinawava Trail is a universally lauded 2 mile round trip route. Shaded by trees and flanked with towering canyon walls, this trail offers a break from some of Zion’s more exposed experiences. The walk is lovely and interesting with interpretive signs pointing out the different elements of landscape. The paved path, slight grade and stroller/wheelchair accessibility make this a popular hike for families and people needing to avoid the more strenuous trails.
Most who visit the trail enjoy taking in some easy walking for spectacular views of Zion Canyon and of course that painted picture of a river filled Virgin River. Howeve,r the trail does run into The Narrows and can get pretty busy during high parts of the day.
Begin your walk by riding the Zion Canyon Shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava stop. The first 0.4 miles of the trail is accessible from a wheelchair until you hit patches with sand and some mild dips in elevation going further out start to pose problems. There are water and toilets next to this loading shuttle point. The trail does not take pets, and shuttle hours are flexible but pay attention to the grand finale. Zion’s entrance fee includes access to it. Visit the Zion National Park website for more information.
6. Canyon Overlook Trail: A Short Hike with Stunning Views
Also, don’t forget to tackle the mile-long Canyon Overlook Trail which offers breathtaking views of Zion Canyon and spot on The Towers of the Virgin as well get a glimse into scenic slot canyon below. Short but popular due to the views and how good it is for your heart. Hikers will gain about 160 ft in elevation, and during such hikes it is normal to come across big horn sheep which are also normally around the area.
The hiking trail is one of the most popular in our nation right now, so past visitors suggest hitting it up early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. It is not a long walk but has some steps, narrow rocky sections and unfenced drop-offs.
To get to the trailhead, take Zion Mount Carmel Highway (Hwy 9) East toward the east entrance of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. A small parking lot offers limited parking on the south side of Croswell Avenue, and a dirt path across from it is the northern trailhead. There is also a vault toielt in the parking area. The trail is included with the park’s $35 vehicle entrance fee, or you can enter on foot or by bicycle for $20 per person. This is a shuttle stop that does not serve the Zion Canyon shuttle. Visit Zion National Park website to learn more.
7. Escape to Kolob Canyons: A Serene Alternative in Zion
Kolob Canyons, northwestern: If you’re looking to avoid the Zion Canyon crowds, head southwest about 40 miles from Hurricane and take in a different kind of awe — these majestic monoliths are just as stunning but without nearly the numbers. Located approximately 40 miles north of Zion Canyon, this is an area with narrow box canyons that are bordered by cliffs over 2,000 feet high rising out from the mountain peaks. The drive up Kolob Canyons Road is only 5 miles long, but it makes sense why this otherworldly spot within the park was dubbed “Kolob,” a place “faraway” in Mormon scripture. A landscape that combines mountain waterfalls and desert vegetation with impressive Navajo sandstone landscapes. There are three out-and-back trails available ranging from 1 mile to 14 miles long.
Many recent visitors enjoyed the proximity of this area to Interstate 15 and found it much less crowded than Zion Canyon. Some even went so far as to say that the beauty of Kolob Canyons outshines its more well known namesake. The most popular is probably the mile-long Timber Creek Overlook Trail with expansive panoramic views.
Kolob Canyons has a visitor center and seasonal camping around 17 miles south of Cedar City, Utah. Vault-toilets and restrooms are established at various key locations of the area. Note that Kolob Canyons Road may close in winter because of snow and icy conditions. This district is not gloomy, but simply interesting; it is accessible from Zion’s main entrance by road to the west. More detail can be obtained on the website for Zion National Park.
8. Canyon Junction Bridge: A Photographer’s Favorite Spot
Printed within the photo itself is also Canyon Junction, that point where Zion Mount Carmel Highway meets up with Zion Scenic Byway and allows a view of Virgin River between two canyon walls. Photographers love this place, especially in the afternoon light when sunlight bathes the Watchman and makes a glow.
Visitors may also note, as described by recent guests warned off the wire stops by park rangers, that stopping or parking on it is strictly verboten. Travelers suggest driving to the Zion Human History Museum, which offers safe and legal parking for taking in the iconic view. Another visitor calls this area an “excellent photography location,” particularly for nighttime and especially if you want to photograph the Milky Way — Zion is a certified International Dark Sky Park, perfect for those new moon nights.
You can get there easily with the free park shuttle bus (the down-canyon shuttles all stop) or by walking. The Pa’rus Trail is a flat, 0.7-mile walk from the Zion Human History Museum for anyone looking to venture further. The pet-friendly river walk follows the Virgin River. Keep in mind there are no services such as restrooms or drinking water in this area and entrance does require the Zion National Park fee. The full park guide can be found on the Zion National Park website.
9. Observation Point: A Panoramic View of Zion’s Splendor
Zion National Park, Observation Point A 6,521 foot observation above Zion Canyon from the top of Mount Baldy. From this elevated vantage point, hikers can marvel at the vast expanse of the canyon and see many of Zion’s iconic landmarks. Mostly, if you want to hike at Observation Point directly from the main canyon floor of Zion National Park, it’s because an old trail leading 4 miles up and out there is currently closed due to a rock fall but access has been maintained via this other way: Along with being the quickest means by foot for bypassing Zion’s concessionaire-hosted transportation system which serves locations across all sorts of park tour lines such as travel plans that intend hikers making their journeys long before getting within viewing distance when we arrive on top East Mesa trailhead about 10 miles north of the park east entrance.
A 9 mile, in and out hike to Observation Point is not the easiest of hikes hikers will come across and so should be prepared for it. Tourists recommend starting your journey early in the day to avoid getting extremely hot, and also bringing enough snacks & water for you on the way. According to the National Park Service, this hike can take from four hours up to six; and because you’ll be hiking in plenty of sun (however shaded it is at times), sunscreen and a hat are non-negotiables.
From Zion’s main shuttle system: Ride the free shuttle to stop No. 7/Weeping Rock, where you’ll usually hit the East Rim Trail up out of there on your own from here. East Mesa Trail alternative: Parking at Rocky Road Finish Line and Fir start line just outside the park. Like all of Zion, the park entrance fee is required: $35 per vehicle or $20 per person. Check out Zion National Park for more information.
10. Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel: A Historical Marvel in Zion National Park
One of the few sections in Zion to be engineered by 20th-century hands, this tunnel leads visitors from east side entrance at Mount Carmel Junction way inside the park boundary allowing quick access (relative term) for those heading deep into southern Utah valley country. Constructed into the sheer sandstone cliffs of Pine Creek Canyon, this 1.1-mile tunnel opened in 1930 as the longest mountain tunnel in America. During the drive there are vertical windows cut into walls of rock providing views out over smaller drainages and stunning canyon vistas.
The tunnel is a good resting place for visitors due to its historical value as well great design. The dark insides of the tunnel are captivating to many drivers, yielding unexpected views through it’s windows. The road approaching and leaving the tunnel is considered some of the best scenery in all Zion canyon.
The mile-long Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel is located on the 25-mile (Scenic Byway) route between the park’s east entrance and Zion Canyon. It is open 24 hours, but does not allow oversized vehicles. To learn more about traveling through the tunnel, vehicle requirements, etc.
11. Court of the Patriarchs: A Quick Hike to Iconic Peaks
Majestic sandstone sentinels, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob — The three lofty peaks dubbed the Court of the Patriarchs by Methodist minister Dr. Frederick Vining Fischer when he toured Zion Canyon in 1916 Visitors from the road can see these banded rock formations, but a quick 0.2 mile hike up to another viewpoint would provide a much better view of what here is shown on some details.
Recent visitors suggest opting for the short but steep hike to gain a better perspective of just how magnificent and massive those peaks are, instead of simply staring at them from the shuttle stop. It also has an interpretive sign telling visitors the names of formations.
Located in Zion Canyon, Court of the Patriarchs is reached by using the Zion Canyon Shuttle for no fee to stop No. 4/Court of the Patriarchs. This stop has NO restrooms or water, but are located close by at Shuttle Stop #5: Zion Lodge. Find out more about this scenic destination on the Zion National Park website.
12. Emerald Pools: A Scenic Oasis in Zion
Zion National Park is far more famous for its powerful rock formations than waterfalls, but the Emerald Pools provide a peaceful interlude with their cascades and calm water. Just a short walk from Zion Lodge, the pools are created when a stream drops over cliffs to form waterfalls that fall into three levels of shining basins surrounded by soaring peaks and overlooking trails high above Zion Canyon.
There are three choices how visitors get to explore this area. The 1.2-mile Lower Emerald Pool loop is the simplest of them, and it follows a mostly paved path along with some sandier stretches that most people should easily be able to manage. The 2.2-mile unpaved Middle Emerald Pools Trail is a slightly harder challenge that takes hikers up a 150-foot ascent, for example. Upper Emerald Pools Trail: 1 mile round trip; moderate to strenuous with a 200 foot elevation gain; Branches off middle trail The waterfall’s best season is spring, when the snowmelt improves its stream.
Emerald Pools receives mixed reviews. A few visitors, namely those coming from the midsummer months of summer season, likewise take them to be a lot less exciting for their low tide. Some extolled the aesthetic of the region, especially when a visitor arrived early enough to avoid anyone on the Lower Emerald Pool Trail.
To get the Emerald Pools: Zion Canyon Shuttle to stop 5/ZIon Lodge. The trailhead is located right across the road and lodge facilities are within reach. The pools are also accessible via the Kayenta Trail from Shuttle Stop No. 6. You are not allowed to swim in the pools. It is part of the parks entrance fee area. Check the Zion National Park website for further details.
13. Watchman Trail: A Scenic Hike for Beginners
Beginner-friendly with plenty of scenic views to boot, Watchman Trail is the perfect day hike in Zion.
While the Watchman Trail does not actually take you to a viewpoint on top of The Watchman Spire; it provides beautiful views down into Zion Canyon looking towards the Temples and Towers, as well as overlooking Springdale. At a 400 foot gentle gain over three miles round trip, this hike offers little in the way of technical challenge and would be an ideal jaunt for a novice desert walker as well porting numerous cacti punctuated green spaces.
This is described by many visitors as a moderate, enjoyable hike. Some advise doing it first thing in the morning so as to beat the heat, since there is no shade along this trail. Because the trailhead is so easily accessible from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, some say to begin here “without bothering with a shuttle.”
The hike should take a couple of hours at most. The route is accessible from the Zion National Park Visitor Center near shuttle stop 6. The visitor center also provides restrooms and a drinking water source, but hikers MUST bring their own water with them as well sun protection (hat, sunglasses) because it is so exposed out in the sun! A park entrance is required to enter this trail. Learn more about the Watchman Trail from Zion National Park.
14. Weeping Rock: A Natural Oasis in Zion’s Desert Landscape
This section contains weeping rock, a natural oasis in Zion’s desert landscape.
Although Zion National Park is most recognized for its arid landscapes, Weeping Rock provides a wet contrairement. At this ery where groundater oozes through come the Navajo sandstone finger placed garden of moa, and;plant clinging to rock. On the short 0.4-mile paved trail, visitors will even feel a little cool drizzle from it on hot summer days and that is part of what makes this spot so very special. There is a challenging 100-foot elevation gain on the trail, but if you make it to the top, you will see this really cool scene of the spring and what surrounds it.
Recent visitors are calling the hike short and steep, but many say it leads to an incredible view from Weeping Rock. The sporadic water droplets from the sandstone, so welcome on hot summer days. A few travelers also mentioned that Weeping Rock provides a similar experience to the Lower Emerald Pool for those on limited time.
Take the free canyon shuttle, and get off at Stop No. 7 to reach Weeping Rock Trailhead There are no other facilities, except for vault toilets. It is part of the entrance fee for Zion National Park, but double check shuttle schedules before heading to this beautiful little spring. Visit Zion National park website for more info.
15. Checkerboard Mesa: A Unique Geological Marvel
Checkerboard Mesa is an iconic sandstone structure featuring a checker box pattern of intersecting vertical and horizontal fractures, located not far from the east entrance to Zion after you drive through the mile-long Mount Carmel Tunnel. The lighter color of the formation, relative to the surrounding sandstone rocks made it prominent enough that a platform with parking bays overlooking “wave” is located on an unpaved road between US 89 and Wranglers Draw about halfway through its journey west to east.
Some recent travelers were fans of Checkerboard Mesa, which is easily accessible from the main road and has earned its name for being literally checkered with bands running across. A handfull of visitors suggested to get there early in the morning as the parking area is rather small and will fill up fast later during the day. Watch for mountain goats, which are frequently encountered here.
Located just inside the park’s east entrance, checkerboard Mesa is a drive-up location; there are no open restrooms or water and shuttle service does not go here. The area is open 24 hours a day, and included in Zion’s seven-day entrance fee. Find all of the details on Zion National Park website.
16. Temple of Sinawava: A Scenic Gateway to Zion’s Popular Trails
Two of the most popular trails in Zion National Park, The Riverside Walk and The Narrows begin at the Temple Sinawava — a natural amphitheater that has its form denoted by Virgin River racing through it. This landscape is an imposing one, and it draws volumes of visitors who are absorbed by the towering canyon walls on either side amidst a jungle like vegetation. An easy hike, great for all skill levels (2.2-mile round-trip) The outgoing one, previously described (Virginia) and The Narrows that starts where Riverside Walk ends — this is a harder hike covering anywhere from 3 miles to the very adventurous in which case it goes up of about 9.4 miles back-back. A wilderness permit is not required, but rangers advise that a large chunk of the hike entails sloshing around in chilly water and swimming through some parts.
The Riverside Walk may be one of the easier hikes in Zion, but it is also very popular at certain times. But, winter travelers note that drinking water is often shut off in the area and it must be hauled to camp with you. Several hikers mentioned water being on the trail near The Narrows.
The Temple of Sinawava is located at Stop 9 on the Zion Canyon Shuttle and has restrooms down by the parking lot as well as a water refill. There are also benches for resting. Also, hikers must plan to catch the final shuttle of the day and should note that Virgin River water is infected with dangerous bacteria & hence not for drinking. More information on Zion National Park Website.
17. Zion Human History Museum: A Glimpse into the Park’s Past
Zion Human History MuseumThis features collections made from the park and is housed in an interesting 1960s Mission 66 building. The museum is split into five different exhibit areas which all elaborate on the human history of the region – from ancient Southern Paiute people living in harmony with their land thousands of years ago to prehistoric life as well and finally, Mormon pioneers. It also catches a baser dive into the water that helped carve Zion, plus soil sustainability and gear from the CCC era.
The building is also of particular note since it was the Zion Visitor Center from 1962 to 2002. The back patio faces a view of the West Temple and Towers of the Virgin, while you can see Bridge Mountain from our front. Rangers frequently recommend visiting the museum at sunrise or sunset as it is a great spot for viewing. Inside, you will even find a bookstore.
Travelers raved about the exhibits and loved taking in the views from of museum’s patios. Many use it for a cool respite from the summer scorching heat or sudden rain showers.
Located half mile north of the South entrance to Zion on Zion-Mount Carmel Highway accessible by way of a shuttle (Stop 2) It has parking, restrooms and drinking water. The Pa’rus Trailhead is not far, for those who wish to walk a mile or so from the visitor center. Admission is part of the $35 Zion National Park Pass, and it’s open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May-September Learn more from the NPS website.
18. The Subway: A Challenging Hike for Adventurous Explorers
The Subway — Zion National Park, Utah: Fans of Angels Landing and The Narrows likely already have their sights set on tackling the next level of adventure in Zion. The Subway: This slot canyon may intimidate hikers due to its elevation drop, but if you’re experienced in canyoneering and familiar with the 9-mile hike that deceptively sneaks up on your while wearing those custom creek shoes from Canyoneers — so we’ll start this one off right next time. This route, which not only requires a wilderness permit but is also recommended by the National Park Service to even be hiked with someone who knows the trail.
Sounds kind of intimidating, but the canyon formations are crazy stunning and worth a lifelong memory. There are two trails to start from, and while the 9 mile Bottom Up Route is more commonly traveled by hikers because it doesn’t require rappelling or deep-pool swimming skills (need only pick-up pre-approved permit), there is a less-traveled yet craggier Top Down Route. But it is nonetheless a challenging haul, in creek crossing and boulder scramble; that singles ecdysis distant a somewhat cold 1,300 meters. It is very important to have accurate route details for hiking safely.
Anyone who has hiked The Subway will tell you that it is a tough hike but the beauty of this location makes it worth doing. Intrepid walkers recommend that you wear good-better-best shoes for this tough walk, which can be in an icy cold river and slippery rocks. A few visitors found the terrain taxing, with a couple saying they felt sore afterward.
The Subway: Available with a day use wilderness permit located in the northwestern end of Zion by Kolob Canyons. Permits are won through a lottery opened two months before backpacking, and cost $15-25 based on group size. For Wilderness Permits and The Subway info, go to the Zion National Park site.