The Subway hike in Zion National Park is known throughout the world as one of the best canyoneering day hikes Southern Utah has to offer. Starting the hike with red slick rock, then descending into the beautiful slot canyon, the subway is an experience that never gets old no matter how many times you go. This is personally my favorite slot canyon that I've ever canyoneered. It is local, accessible, and spectacular. But in order to finish the hike safely and sufficiently, a few canyoneering items are needed.
First know how cold the water found inside the canyon is. If going on the hike is in early spring, you will definitely need a wetsuit for the water parts of the hike. If you are hiking in the summer, you should be fine. In fact the chilled mountain runoff water will actually feel good when hiking in the hot summer sun. So make sure you know what the weather is like before starting the hike.
Dry bags. Although these aren't a complete necessity, having a few dry bags to keep gear dry is a huge help. Bringing an extra pair of clothes to keep dry and change into after getting wet is highly recommended.
Repelling gear. Each person participating in the hike needs to have a repelling harness. And of course a rope is needed. I wouldn't recommend bringing a large rope, that is hard to carry the whole way through the hike, especially when the rope gets wet. A short rope will work just fine, the largest cliff required to repeal down in only about 50-60 feet tall.
Water shoes. Don't go and buy super expensive water shoes, just wear shoes you don't mind getting wet and sandy.
So there it is! Just go out there and have fun.... and always be safe:)
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