Frequently Asked Questions

What is Canyoning All About? Canyoning is an exciting adventure sport that takes you into some of the most spectacular and untouched landscapes on the West Coast of Canada. Imagine exploring nature's own water park, hidden within lush forests and rugged mountains. At its core, canyoning involves descending scenic canyons using a combination of rappelling down waterfalls, jumping into crystal-clear pools, sliding on smooth rock formations, and navigating through pristine waterways. If you love outdoor adventures, exploring hidden gems, solving technical challenges, or simply splashing around in beautiful natural settings, you’ll absolutely love canyoning. Join West Coast Canyoning Adventures to experience the thrill of descending stunning canyons and discovering the breathtaking beauty of British Columbia's wilderness.

Canyoning and canyoneering are two terms that are often used interchangeably to describe the activity of exploring canyons by walking, scrambling, climbing, rappelling, and swimming. However, there is no significant difference between the two terms. "Canyoning" is a term that is commonly used in Europe and Asia, while "canyoneering" is more prevalent in the United States. Both terms describe the same activity and involve navigating through canyons using various techniques, such as jumping into pools of water, sliding down natural water slides, and abseiling or rappelling down waterfalls. In summary, while there may be some regional differences in the terminology used, canyoning and canyoneering refer to the same activity of exploring canyons using a combination of physical and technical skills.

Canyoning and rock climbing may appear similar at first glance, but they are actually quite distinct. Canyoning is primarily focused on descending through canyons, often involving significant amounts of time spent in water. In contrast, rock climbing is all about ascending dry rock faces. While there is some overlap in equipment and techniques between the two sports, it's important to recognize that canyoning requires specialized gear and techniques that are specific to navigating wet environments. Conversely, many of the techniques used in rock climbing would be unsuitable or even hazardous in a canyon environment. Thus, despite some surface-level similarities, canyoning and rock climbing are unique sports with their own particular skills and methods.

With its unique and diverse natural landscapes, favorable climate, and abundance of canyoning opportunities, British Columbia is poised to become the next top destination for canyoning enthusiasts. The region's growing reputation as a canyoning hotspot, coupled with its potential for new and unexplored canyons, is sure to attract thrill-seekers from around the world. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking for a new challenge, the West Coast of British Columbia offers an unparalleled canyoning experience that is sure to leave you breathless and in awe of the natural beauty around you. So, pack your gear and head to British Columbia to experience the thrill of canyoning in one of the world's most stunning and captivating landscapes.

The canyoning season in the West Coast of British Columbia, Canada typically runs from mid-June to mid-October. Outside of this period, it is usually too cold and the water levels may be too high for safe canyoning. If you are after a more thrilling descent, early in the season, after snowmelt, typically sees higher water flows. It's important to keep in mind that the timing of the season can vary depending on factors such as rainfall, snowmelt, and other weather conditions. It is always best to check with us for the most up-to-date information on the best time to go canyoning in the area.

At West Coast Canyoning Adventures, we recognize that canyoning, like other water-based recreational activities, can impact river and waterway ecosystems. These impacts can vary significantly based on the activity's scale and management and can affect water quality and biodiversity through physical disturbances, the introduction of pollutants, and disturbances to wildlife. The intensity of the activity and the ecosystem's vulnerability largely determine the degree of impact​ (MDPI)​. 1. Sustainability and Mitigation Efforts: Proactive Environmental Management: We use eco-friendly gear and adhere to "Leave No Trace" principles to minimize our environmental footprint, ensuring that our adventures are both enjoyable and responsible. 2. Sensitive Species Protections: Coastal Tailed Frog: We manage our activities to minimize disturbances in habitats supporting the Coastal Tailed Frog, carefully planning our routes and timing to reduce our ecological impact. Salmon Spawning: During salmon spawning seasons, we strictly avoid canyoning activities in or near spawning areas to prevent disruptions to the salmon's reproductive processes. 3. Conservation Collaborations: Black Swift Colony: In collaboration with Bird Canada, we have rerouted activities to minimize disturbances to the Black Swift colony. This partnership is an example of our commitment to balancing exciting recreational activities with environmental stewardship. Through these comprehensive measures, West Coast Canyoning Adventures leads sustainable canyoning practices in Canada. Our efforts demonstrate that thrilling outdoor adventures can coexist with a strong commitment to environmental conservation, ensuring the protection of the natural world for future generations.

Yes. We can organise trips to suit your needs. Canyoning is perfect for group activity, team building and corporate events.

NO. Our regular canyoning trips—Canyon Explorer in Squamish or Fraser Valley—are ideal for participants without previous canyoning experience. We also offer more advanced trips on a less frequent basis, suitable for guests with prior canyoning or similar outdoor experience. If you're interested in exploring these technical and challenging canyons, please contact us directly to discuss available options.

Yes, if you really don’t want to do any of the elements once you are in the canyon we can provide alternative options. You can choose your level of challenge. Our guides can provide alternatives if you wish to make sure you are comfortable during the entire trip.

All participants should feel comfortable in moving water, though strong swimming skills aren't necessary. Requirements may vary depending on the specific trip and current water levels. Personal flotation devices (life jackets) are available for anyone who would prefer extra buoyancy; however, your wetsuit already provides significant flotation.

We strongly encourage you to inform us of any pre-existing injuries or medical conditions prior to booking a canyoning tour. Canyoning is a physical activity that can exacerbate existing injuries, and we want to ensure your safety and well-being during the tour. By communicating with us, we can make informed decisions together and determine if canyoning is a suitable activity for you. .

We don’t recommend you wear glasses in the canyon. Contact lenses are better but can still fall out. If you only have glasses, ensure you have a sports strap or tie and let your guide know before departure. Glasses are worn at clients risk.

Please note that canyoning is a weather-dependent activity. Rain or shine, it is usually possible to go canyoning unless an unusual amount of rain precedes a planned trip. The main obstacle to canyoning is too much water, but as long as we are able to proceed with the trip, we will do so. We continually monitor the conditions in the canyon right up until our departure. In the event of inclement weather or unsafe conditions, West Coast Canyoning Adventures reserves the right to reschedule activities. If rescheduling is not possible or if the customer is unable to attend the rescheduled date, we will issue a refund or credit due to the inclement weather.

Provide your height and weight at booking time to help us pack the right size equipment for you. We provide our participants with top quality and completely CE-tested canyoning gear to keep you comfortable, warm, and safe in the canyon. 5mm neoprene wetsuit bottom* 5mm neoprene jacket with hood** 3mm neoprene socks Premium Five-Ten or Adidas canyoning shoes Edelrid canyoning harness (CE-Norm) with two safety lines and descender*** Canyoning helmet (CE-Norm) Life jacket (CE-Norm) available on request *You will need your own swimsuit to wear under the wetsuit. **Our neoprene wetsuits and socks are washed thoroughly with neoprene shampoo and antibacterials soap after every use. ***For safety reasons, we must ensure our customers fit the equipment. The harness is a crucial piece of equipment that must fit properly. Equipment & Gear Standards WCCA partners with leading gear manufacturers to provide high-quality, well-maintained equipment. All technical gear is regularly inspected, utilized, and replaced within manufacturer guidelines.

Yes! But make sure it is fully waterproof. GoPro-style cameras are perfect for canyoning. Cameras cannot be mounted or strapped to the helmet or other safety equipment, and your hands must be free at all times in the canyon. The proper functioning of your safety equipment is absolutely paramount and don’t forget, we’re taking pictures too and they’re free! Please Note: We do not have insurance to cover your cameras or electrical equipment. you take cameras into the canyon at your own risk

What to Bring All you need is your adventurous spirit and confidence in moving water—along with: Clothing & Personal Essentials Swimsuit Thermal base layer (polypro or merino) for added warmth under your wetsuit Towel to dry off at the end of the day Food & Hydration Packed lunch (in a waterproof or plastic bag) Water bottle Gear Provided We've got you covered with all the technical canyoning gear, including: Wetsuit Helmet Neoprene socks Canyoning shoes Valuables Please leave valuables at home. If needed, small personal items can be stored safely in the canyoning van at the trip departure point.

As with any outdoor activity, canyoning involves an element of risk and requires respect for the sometimes inhospitable environments that we visit. However, with proper training and patience, these risks can be managed. Canyoning requires the use of specialized tools, such as harnesses, ropes, descenders, helmets, and appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking on slippery terrain. At West Coast Canyoning Adventures, we understand the importance of using high-quality equipment to ensure the safety of our participants. Our approach to safety is based on years of experience and rigorous training. All equipment is checked daily and thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after use. Anchors are also regularly checked for wear and tear. Prior to the start of each excursion, our certified canyoning guides provide a comprehensive safety and equipment briefing, as well as an overview of the day's itinerary. Our guides are highly experienced and trained to identify and manage any potential risks during the excursion. To ensure the safety of all participants, we require a collaborative attitude, strict adherence to our guides' instructions, and the use of all equipment supplied by West Coast Canyoning Adventures. We encourage all participants to communicate any concerns they may have with our guides so that we can address them promptly and effectively.

Emergency & Rescue Preparedness At West Coast Canyoning Adventures (WCCA), safety is our top priority. All guides carry first aid kits, emergency communication devices, and swiftwater rescue gear. WCCA maintains strong partnerships with local Search and Rescue (SAR) teams and offers complimentary canyoning rescue training to SAR members. All lead guides hold Professional Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification, Swiftwater Rescue Technician certification, and have been assessed and certified as Professional Canyon Guides by Canyon Guides International (CGI). Trip leaders participate in annual emergency scenario training, covering evacuation procedures and technical rescue drills to ensure preparedness for any situation. Emergency Evacuation, Rescue, or First Aid In the event of an accident, WCCA will make every effort to evacuate you safely from the canyon. While local SAR teams provide free rescue services in British Columbia, response times can vary, and reaching an injured party may take hours. If an incident requires an expedited or complex evacuation, WCCA guides may need to request support from private rescue organizations, including helicopter transport services such as TEEAM Medevac. Participants are solely responsible for all costs associated with emergency evacuation, rescue, or medical care. Some private insurance policies cover rescue expenses. Before your trip, it is crucial to confirm that your insurance includes coverage for mountain or climbing-related accidents.