NPS/AMY GAIENNIE

The Subway

Be Prepared
All narrow canyons are potentially hazardous. Flash floods, cold water, and strong currents present real dangers that can be life-threatening. Your safety depends on your own good judgment, adequate preparation, and constant attention. By entering a narrow canyon, you are assuming a risk.
Your safety is your responsibility.

•Weather Forecast

•Flash Flood Potential Ratings

Permits
Permits are required for all through hikes of the Virgin River and tributaries, the Left Fork of North Creek (the Subway), Kolob Creek, and all canyons requiring the use of descending gear or ropes. Permits are issued at both visitor centers the day before, or the day of your hike. Please check the main Backcountry Menu or the Backcountry News page for updates on costs and how to make a reservation. Thank you for your patience.

Group Size
Large groups increase impacts on the backcountry. Group size is limited to a maximum of 12 people sharing the same affiliation (school, club, scout troop, family, friends) in the same drainage, route, or backcountry trail on the same day. This is strictly enforced; violators will be cited. The group size limit for all canyoneering trips other than the Narrows, Left Fork, Pine Creek, Orderville, and Keyhole Canyons is six people per day.

Hypothermia
Hypothermia occurs when the body is cooled to dangerous levels. It is the #1 killer of outdoor recreationists, and it usually happens without the victim's awareness. It is a hazard in narrow canyons, even in summer, because immersion in cold water is the quickest route to body heat loss. To prevent hypothermia, avoid cotton clothing (it provides no insulation when wet) and eat high-energy food (especially sugars and starches) before you are chilled.

Signs of hypothermia:
•Uncontrollable shivering
•Stumbling and poor coordination
•Fatigue and weakness
•Confusion or slurred speech

If you recognize any signs of hypothermia, stop hiking and immediately replace wet clothing with dry clothing. Warm the victim with your own body and a hot drink. Shelter from breezes. A pre-warmed sleeping bag will help prevent further heat loss.


Return to Main Backcountry Page