Frequently asked questions

ABOUT CANYONING

What is Canyoning?

This emerging outdoors activity is about descending a canyon following its watercourse and negotiating your way down the waterfalls as they cascade down into pools of water. There are multiple ways to move through canyons, including walking, rappelling (abseiling), jumping, swimming, scrambling and sliding.



What is the difference between Canyoning and Canyoneering?

Different word, same meaning, Canyoneering is usually used in the USA, and also refer to dry Canyons. Canyoning mainly refers to technical wet canyons.



What is the difference between Rappelling and Abseiling?

Nothing! Different word, same meaning



What is the difference between Canyoning and Rock Climbing?

In canyoning, nearly 80% of the time is spent in the water and the activity is about going down versus rock climbing is about going up. Lots of rock climbing techniques, knots and equipment are very similar to the ones we use in canyons but also, many rock climbing techniques would not be appropriate even dangerous if used in a wet canyons environment.



What makes the West Coast a good canyoning destination?

Most canyons along BC’s south coast are easily accessible and the presence of granite rock formations create conditions that are both grippy and smooth enough to create natural waterslides. The deep, clear pools offer a chance to get up close and personal with diverse creatures of the ush rainforests. British Columbia is a fairly new canyoning destination and we believe it is destined to become a hot spot among the international canyoning community with endless opportunities to discover and open new canyons.



Is canyoning safe?

Canyoning has an element of risk, like any other outdoor activities and requires we respect the inhospitable environments we are visiting. The risks involved are typical of water sports but with training and patience we can control those risks. Practicing canyoning requires using specific tools: harnesses, ropes, descenders, helmets, clothes and shoes that are fit for hiking on slippery ground. Our methodology for canyon safety is based on our training and many years of guiding experiences. All equipment is checked daily prior to use, and checked again and cleaned after use. Wetsuits are dis-infected after each use and all anchors are regularly checked for wear. Before we begin, your certified canyoning guide will hold a safety lesson, equipment lesson and discuss the day’s itinerary. Social distancing and COVID-19 risk mitigation strategies will be strictly applied. All participants are expected to bring a collaborative attitude, follow instructions and must wear all the equipment supplied by WCCA.



When is the time of the year season?

We typically operate from mid-June to Mid -October, outside to this period it is usually too cold and the water is too high. If you are after a more thrilling descent, early season, after snowmelt, typically sees higher water flows.



What’s the best next step after a first canyoning experience?

If you became addicted to canyoning and would like to make it your sport, you can come back and do an intermediate or advanced trip with bigger jumps and rappel or you can take a training course (organized or private) and sanction by the Canadian Canyoning Association and the Canyon Guide International organization an International Canyoning Organisation for professionals.



PARTICIPANTS REQUIREMENTS

What if I have pre-existing injury & medical conditions?

Your doctors probably advised what level of activity you can partake in. Canyoning is a physical activity and it can aggravate existing injuries. You should inform us of all injuries prior to partaking in a canyoning tour. If you are unsure we recommend getting in touch prior to booking and we can make informed decisions together.
As of spring 2020 a COVID-19 pre-screening form must be filled out in advance to limit transmission, protect vulnerable citizens, and prevent community transmission.



Can anyone go canyoning?

Other than minimal requirements that need to be fulfilled, no particular experience is required by the participants: you just have to be keen to try something new.

Canyoning emphasizes aesthetics and fun rather than pure difficulty. Some people do it for adventure and adrenaline and for other people, it’s about exploring these beautiful places and getting access to these deep gorges that are otherwise inaccessible.
 The requirements for each of our trips are listed in the individual activity description. Generally speaking, good health and basic swimming ability are required for all participants. You should be prepared to sit and stand multiple times during a tour as you move through uneven terrain. Some tours are more demanding than others, so please read the description carefully. You will need to be prepared for an active day, but we do not require athletes! In addition to good health and swimming ability you must: Meet prerequisites on COVID-19 pre-screening form. Be able to handle heights and manage your fear of heights. Weigh more than 40 kg (90lbs). For safety reasons, we must ensure our customers fit the equipment.



What if I don’t like heights?

For anyone who’s a little nervous with heights (or completely new to working with ropes), this is a perfect introduction. We get it, the initial feeling of lowering yourself off a rock can be a little daunting, but as soon as you realize that you’re completely in control of your speed you’ll feel confident in your new skills. On the other hand, If you are suffering from an irrational fear of heights, maybe this activity will not be as enjoyable as it could be. Contact us to discuss it.



What if I don't want to slide or jump?

Jumps or slides are always optional. If a jump or a slide is too high, too difficult, or too fast for you, then your guide will be happy to let you rappel or lower you down instead.





LOGISTICS

What if it is raining?

Please note 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 guarantee the safety of our guests, the trip will go ahead. We continue to monitor the conditions in the canyon right up until our departure



Where do I meet you for my canyoning trip?

We will meet you at the canyon! This will be sent to you on your booking confirmation. We do recommend you stop at a public restroom before meeting us. While the canyons are close to town, they are still remote in locations.



How do I prepare for canyoning and what should I bring?

Sleep well the night before, hydrate yourself, and have a good breakfast. Most importantly don’t forget your stoke at home. Bring the following personal equipment: Swimsuit Fast-drying shirt/rashguard and shorts Towel Change of clothing for the end of the day. Weather appropriate clothing and footwear for dry cliff sessions. Lunch (light snacks will be provided) Waterproof camera or GoPro (optional) If you regularly wear glasses, we recommend wearing contact lenses in the canyon; please bring an extra set along for after the trip, in case they fall out during the tour. If you do not wear contacts it’s recommended you leash your glasses using straps available at most outdoor stores.



What Canyoning equipment is supplied:

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.



Can I bring camera canyoning?

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



CANCELLATION

Cancellation?

To ensure you have the flexibility to amend plans if you become ill or are effected by travel restrictions, we’re extending our cancellation policy. This applies to all current bookings, and any future bookings made until further notice. If you need to cancel a booking more than 24 hrs in advance due to covid-19, you’ll receive a full refund. Bookings cancelled within 24 hrs of a planned start time will receive credit for the full amount paid. This can be used to rebook in the future.



COVID 19

What about COVID-19 risk mitigation

WCCA takes the COVID-19 pandemic very seriously and understands that we all need to work together to limit transmission, protect vulnerable citizens, and prevent community transmission. This is an added risk to our outdoor activity, but we are no strangers to managing risk with solid protocols and Personal Protective Equipment. After all risk management is what we do and we do it well!