Utah·United States
Photo: Doc James · Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Zion is the canyoning capital of the United States, a plateau of sandstone cut by narrow slots with pools, waterfalls and polished walls. The Subway's tunnel-shaped chamber and the Narrows of the Virgin River are world-famous, and Mystery Canyon finishes with a rappel straight down to the river.
In season: Apr–Oct · Peak: Jun, Sep
Anything from wading the Narrows to technical descents with several rappels, cold swims and route-finding. Flash floods and cold water are the main hazards, and water levels change with the season.
The accessible introduction, joins the Narrows halfway
Top-down through a tunnel-shaped canyon, permit lottery
Sixteen miles wading the Virgin River through the gorge
Rappels finishing in the Narrows itself
Apply for canyoneering permits in the park lottery; the Subway and Mystery are in heavy demand. Hire an outfitter in Springdale for gear or a course outside the park, begin with Orderville Canyon, and add technical canyons once you are confident on rope.
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