Quick beta: The Subway (permit check was quick)
Jan 31-31, 20263 people1 min read
A
Arthur Wainwright
1 reports
4.0
Difficulty
4
Scenery
4
Trail Conditions
4
Logistics for The Subway
We started around 5:35 AM and the early start made the whole day easier.
Route we took: Out-and-back through Left Fork from Wildcat Canyon side.
Permit check was low drama. Screenshot + ID and we were on our way.
Conditions were straightforward: Cool morning air helped us move fast before the canyon warmed up. Rock steps were stable, with a few muddy pockets by the creek. Water depth changed by section but never forced a full stop.
It felt steady from start to finish.
If you want less stress: Start earlier than you think if you want space on the first mile.
Ratings: overall 4/5, difficulty 4/5, scenery 4/5, conditions 4/5.
Tips
- Start earlier than you think if you want space on the first mile.
- Pack a dry layer even if the forecast looks perfect.
- If the trail is muddy, slow down instead of fighting it.
Conditions at Time of Trip
Jan 2026Weather
Cool morning air helped us move fast before the canyon warmed up.
Trail
Rock steps were stable, with a few muddy pockets by the creek.
Water
Water depth changed by section but never forced a full stop.
Crowds
Crowded
💡Tips from the Trip
💡
General
- •Start earlier than you think if you want space on the first mile.
- •Pack a dry layer even if the forecast looks perfect.
- •If the trail is muddy, slow down instead of fighting it.
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