How to Get a Permit for The Subway Zion: A Complete Guide

If you're dreaming of hiking The Subway in Zion National Park, you’re about to embark on one of the most stunning, adventurous trails out there. But, before you lace up your boots, there’s one critical thing you need: a permit. This guide covers every detail you’ll need to secure that coveted permit, ensuring you won’t have to search anywhere else. Let’s dive in!

Why Do You Need a Permit for The Subway Hike?

The Subway, with its unique tunnel-like canyon, vibrant emerald pools, and waterfalls, is extremely popular. To protect this natural beauty, Zion National Park limits daily hikers, requiring permits for both the Bottom-Up (non-technical) and Top-Down (technical/canyoneering) routes. Only 80 permits are available per day, so it's crucial to know how to get one.

Three Ways to Get a Permit for The Subway Hike

1. The Seasonal Lottery
2. The Daily Lottery
3. Walk-In Permits

Each method has its own requirements, so I’ll break them down to make sure you’re fully prepared.

1. The Seasonal Lottery

The Seasonal Lottery is your best bet for securing a permit well in advance of your trip. Here’s how it works:

• When to Apply: The lottery opens months before the actual hiking season. You need to apply for permits during specific windows depending on when you plan to hike.

• How to Apply: Head to recreation.gov and search for “Zion Left Fork North Creek (Subway) Seasonal Lottery.”
  • You can select up to 4 possible dates for your hike.
  • Specify the number of permits you need (each hiker must have one).
• Cost: It costs $6 to enter the lottery (non-refundable), and if you win, you’ll pay $10 per permit.
• Notification: You’ll receive an email notification 2 days after the lottery closes. If you win, you’ll have to confirm your reservation by the specified deadline. Miss this deadline, and you lose your permit!
• Pro Tip: The Subway permits are highly competitive, especially for weekends and holidays. If your dates are flexible, consider applying for weekdays to increase your chances.

2. The Daily Lottery: Last-Minute Permits

Missed the Seasonal Lottery? Don’t worry! You still have a shot with the Daily Lottery, but it requires quick action.

• When to Apply: The daily lottery opens 2 days before your planned hike, between 12:00 AM and 3:00 PM Mountain Time.
• How to Apply: Go to recreation.gov and enter the "Zion Canyoneering Daily Lottery." You can apply for a permit for up to 6 people.
• Cost: The entry fee is $6, and if you win, the permit fee is $10 per person.
• Notification: You’ll get an email or text notification by 4:00 PM Mountain Time the same day. If you’re successful, you’ll need to confirm your permit right away.
• Pro Tip: If you're visiting Zion during a busy season, set a reminder on your phone to apply early in the morning. Permits go fast!

3. Walk-In Permits: The Last-Minute Gamble

If both lotteries don’t work out, your final option is to try for a walk-in permit.

• How it Works: Any unclaimed or canceled permits from the lottery system are made available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
• Best Strategy: Arrive as early as possible, even the day before your hike, to inquire about any leftover permits. The Wilderness Desk typically opens at 7 AM, but it’s wise to get there earlier during peak season to improve your chances.
• Pro Tip: If you're flexible with your dates and are visiting for a few days, keep checking the desk for any last-minute cancellations.

Picking Up Your Permit: Important Details

If you’ve successfully secured a permit through any of the methods above, the next step is picking it up in person. You cannot print or download the permit—here’s what you need to do:

• Where to Go: Head to the Wilderness Desk at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center (located near the park entrance).
• When to Pick It Up: Permits must be picked up the day before or the day of your hike. You’ll review trail conditions with a park ranger, who will provide important safety tips and any last-minute updates on the trail.
• What to Bring:
  • A valid photo ID.
  • Your vehicle information (make, model, and license plate) for the parking permit.
  • Details of your hiking party.
• Pro Tip: Plan ahead and give yourself enough time to pick up the permit, as the Wilderness Desk is a 40-minute drive from the Left Fork Trailhead, where your hike begins.

Tips for Getting a Permit and Planning Your Hike

Getting a permit for The Subway hike can feel like a game of chance, but these tips will help increase your odds:

• Be Flexible with Your Dates: When applying, avoid peak times like weekends and holidays. Weekday permits are less competitive.
• Apply as Early as Possible: For both the Seasonal and Daily Lottery, get your application in as early as the system allows.
• Prepare for Any Conditions: Conditions at The Subway can vary dramatically based on the season. For example, spring might bring higher water levels, while fall offers cooler, more stable weather. Be prepared to adjust your gear accordingly.

Why the Subway Hike Is Worth It

Despite the effort it takes to get a permit, The Subway hike is absolutely worth every step. Picture yourself navigating between red canyon walls, with water shimmering in emerald pools beneath you. As you scramble over rocks and waterfalls, you’ll understand why this is Zion National Park’s most prized trail. And, thanks to the limited permits, you’ll get to enjoy the experience without the crowds.

Final Thoughts

Securing a permit for The Subway might take some planning, but once you’ve got that golden ticket, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. With this guide, you now have everything you need to make your permit application a success. So go ahead—take that first step toward an epic journey!