Canyoning!!!!!

Even though canyoning is new to the United States Europeans have been doing it for centuries! This extreme sport refers to maneuvering your way down a canyon. On the journey you are required to hike, cross boulders, go through streams, get carried down by the rushing water, jump off cliffs, and sometimes even rappel through waterfalls.

I went canyoning a few years ago in in Austria and it was a blast!!! We began our journey climbing a ton of stairs to reach the top of the canyon. Even though we were wearing wetsuits I remember the water was freezing! Once we began our journey down the canyon we soon forgot about how cold the water was because we were have so much fun. We climbed and jumped over rocks, jumped from a few low waterfalls, jumped from a 40ft waterfall at the end, along with much more. There was a part in the adventure when we had to lay down on our back and "ride the water" going along with the rocks. This part was a little uneasy for most people because our heads were submerged for a brief amount of time. It was a great experience and I would recommend everyone to give it a try!!!

Some equipment that may be used while canyoning includes a harness, helmet, flotation device, wet suite, ropes, and ascenders, descenders (clips for the ropes) To go canyoning it is often done with a guide who is experienced in the sport and familiar with the terrain. It is important to remain safe at all times and to listen to all of the instructions the guide gives.