11/08/14 - Zion - Subway

**jman** · 12-28-2014, 10:46 AM

With the winter season in full bloom, the prime canyoneering season is over for most of Utah. Of course, you can still go - but only if you desire cold temps, snow, and water that may be frozen over. While a good handful is at Freeze-Fest this week, let us think back to warmer days for a bit...

Actually, this TR isn't too far off from a freeze-fest itself! For warm-weather folks, November (and I'd say mid October) is probably the latest you would want to attempt the Subway. Wetsuits are definitely necessary this time of year.

Now, the hiking temps are just perfect this time - 60s when you are in the sun, and it feels more like 70 when there is no wind. But man o man, the water is ever cold. When the water runs over the heated-sand during the summer - it keeps the water temps at a GREAT temperature. But this late in the season, again, wetsuits are HIGHLY recommended. Especially, if you have a large group (larger than 4?).

Anywho, on this particular descent we had 6 people including 2 Subway noobs. As a sidenote - this is my 16th time in the last 9 years and my friends are starting to ask me if I'm getting bored with it. NOPE! One of the subtle enjoyement factors of canyoneering is being with people who are new to canyoneering or whether this is the first descent of the canyon. It's great, quietly sitting back observing their reactions to the canyon and experience. And the Subway doesn't disappoint!

On to the pictures:
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