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Eye of the Needle

Eye of the Needle

Zion National Park
Technical Canyoneering

          Eye of the Needle is a unique and charming wet technical slot canyon. The canyon is located just outside the boundaries of Zion National Park, which eliminates the bureaucratic hassles associated with neighboring canyons. This canyon is spring fed which provides a special treat to Colorado Plateau canyoneers in the form of flowing water. The stream flow is usually mild and provides a good introduction into wet canyons.

          Eye of the Needle is a sparkling and thrilling slot canyon that is certainly worth the effort to visit. This canyon offers several route options that allows the canyon to be experienced in a single day or extended into a phenomenal two day adventure.

          Interested in viewing a short video clip of the Eye of the Needle?

*Eye of the Needle Video*

Limited Access:
          Oak Creek is currently closed to public access. Zion Adventure Company has established a permission agreement to guide a small number of low impact trips to Eye of the Needle (South Fork of Oak Creek) each year. Currently this is the only option to legally visit the canyon. Zion Adventure Company has priced the route as a "High Adventure Day". More information is available on the Zion Adventure Company High Adventure web page.

Circle of Friends:
          Eye of the Needle is part of the "Circle of Friends" program. Members of the "Circle of Friends" have access to more specific information, explicit route information, GPS waypoints, trailhead location and detailed maps.  If you would like more information on joining the "Circle of Friends" visit the sign up page.

"Circle of Friends"

Hank Moon and the Eye of the Needle A little partner assist saves a rappel

General Information:
          Eye of the Needle is a spectacular canyoneering adventure requiring complete technical gear. A GPS is useful. Good map reading skills are essential. Navigation for this route is moderate. Eye of the Needle is rated 3C IV using the Canyon Rating System. A Zion Backcountry permit is not required for this route.

Ryan Cornia exiting the Eye of the Needle Hank Moon wading through

Trailhead Information:
          Any vehicle can easily reach the trailhead in dry conditions.

Just like the local water park Dropping in

Optional Route Information:
          Options for a scenic two day technical backpacking route are available to members of the Circle of Friends. The optional route is excellent exit and I highly recommend using it at least once in your lifetime. If using the Optional Exit a Zion backcountry permit must be obtained.


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