Practising an extreme sport is an opportunity to escape the daily grind. And there is no extreme sport without risks. Canyoning is one of those activities that fascinates far more than it frightens. However, it is essential to always keep in mind the risks and how to minimise them.
The Risks
Canyoning sometimes makes headlines in sensationalist news, and not in a good way.
Among the main risks you may encounter while canyoning, we can list, in order of importance:
Sudden Flash Flood:
The abrupt rise in water flow is the most feared cause of accidents. Moreover, canyons, having been carved by water over many years, often feature steep walls, preventing adventurers from exiting before the end. This natural paradise can quickly turn into a deadly trap due to the lack of an escape route.
Unfamiliarity with the Terrain:
Water currents at the base of waterfalls, falling rocks, misjudging depth, natural obstacles... all these risk factors are linked to the terrain you traverse. That’s why it’s crucial not to venture out without first gathering all necessary information.
Market Competition:
There is fierce competition among companies offering canyoning activities, some prioritising profitability over safety. Ensure basic rules are followed, such as wearing a helmet that meets current standards! Don’t hesitate to research and compare...
Underestimating the Danger:
Underestimating the danger is a danger in itself. Canyoning, as fun and beautiful as it is, often makes us forget that it remains a mountain activity with its own techniques and specificities.
The Advice
Risks are part of the game. However, their impact can be reduced by following a few recommendations.
As we’ve seen, many factors must be considered, from water temperature to gorge morphology, as well as current regulations. That’s why it’s highly recommended to:
Contact Competent Professionals:
Turning to a reputable club or association is the ideal way to train and anticipate risks.
They will help you:
- Choose your equipment
- Find a route suited to your level
- Receive optimal guidance
- Practise under safe conditions
Stay Humble:
Humility is a core value in extreme sports. Recognising and respecting nature’s power without challenging or harming it is key. The goal is to uncover the hidden dangers behind its beauty. Canyoning is deeply connected to nature, so respect is paramount.
It’s advisable to walk along the edges of the stream rather than directly in the water if the depth is below 40 cm. Trampling the riverbed causes environmental issues, putting canyoning under scrutiny by some ecological groups.
Avoid a Competitive Mindset:
Over time, competition has crept in where it didn’t exist before. Trying to outdo others is the worst attitude to have in a sport like canyoning.
Once these recommendations are followed, canyoning remains a thrilling and emotional sport.
Minimising risk means taking all necessary precautions before, during, and after the activity. Without basic safety, there’s no enjoyment. Without some danger, there’s no challenge. All activities carry risks if the participant isn’t responsible.
That’s why, in practice, this sport remains an incredible experience of discovery—of an activity, a canyon, a landscape, and even oneself.
Feel free to ask any questions in our Canyoning Forum before contacting a professional, and you’ll be ready to dive into the canyon adventure!
