Russell Gulch Permit: Route
Russell Gulch permits are booked by advance reservation in Zion National Park. The route covers 1.5 miles.
Descend the approach drainage for The Subway, where technical canyoneering leads to one of Zion's most iconic formations.
This guide covers the Russell Gulch permit.
2-3 hours
Duration
1.5 miles
Distance
200'
Elevation Gain
moderate
Difficulty
About Russell Gulch
Russell Gulch forms the technical approach to The Subway. This drainage must be descended as part of the top-down Subway route.
Russell Gulch is the technical approach to The Subway top-down route. Completing this drainage means you've done the full Subway experience, not just the bottom-up walk.
The Russell Gulch route
- Distance
- 1.5 miles
- Route type
- point-to-point
- Elevation gain
- 200 ft
- High point
- 6,600 ft
- Low point
- 6,200 ft
- Trip length
- 2-3 hours
- Difficulty
- moderate
Russell Gulch permit detailsandAll Zion National Park permits
What to Expect
4 rappels up to 50 feet
Leads to The Subway
Part of larger route
Technical slickrock terrain
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Permit Requirements
Wilderness permit required
Part of Subway permit
Group size limit of 6 people — only Orderville, Keyhole, Pine Creek, the Left Fork (Subway) and the Narrows top-down are allowed 12
Gear & Preparation
Required Gear
- •100-foot rope
- •Harness
- •Rappel device
- •Helmet
Hazards & Safety
Flash floods
Slickrock navigation
Heat on exposed sections
Best Time to Visit
Same as Subway: summer for warm water.
100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a Russell Gulch permit?
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Russell Gulch permits require advance reservations. Book online as soon as reservations open for your desired dates.
When is the best time to visit Russell Gulch?
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Same as Subway: summer for warm water.
How long is the Russell Gulch route?
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The route is 1.5 miles, as a point-to-point. Plan on 2-3 hours.
How difficult is the Russell Gulch route?
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Canyoneers doing the full Subway top-down.
What gear do I need for the Russell Gulch route?
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Essential gear includes: 100-foot rope, Harness, Rappel device, Helmet.
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