It is dangerous even in ideal weather conditions, and is banned for liability reasons in many American states. But the thrill of its inherent danger is what makes it attractive to those who take part. It is the terrain that determines the means of progress, be it walking, wading, jumping, abseiling, climbing or swimming. Experience required The range of skills explains why some experts insist canyoning is only for those already experienced in basic outdoor activity skills. Canyons will be chosen according to their degree of simplicity and their possible number of escape routes along the way.
Many organisers use qualified mountain guides as leaders.
They insist those taking part are physically fit, able to swim and preferably do not suffer from vertigo. Equipment includes life jackets, wetsuits, climbing gear and crash helmets. But absolute safety cannot be guaranteed. The main dangers of the sport are weather-related. In April, three months before the disaster in Switzerland in which 18 people died, a British woman was killed canyoning in Australia's Blue Mountains.