Canyoning with kids is definitely possible. And they’re often the ones who remember it the longest. Before you get started, there are a few questions that deserve honest answers: What’s the minimum age? Which canyon should you choose? Do you need to know how to swim? Here’s everything you need to know to plan a canyoning trip with kids in Savoie and Rhône-Alpes with CANRIV.
At what age can children start canyoning?
The answer varies depending on the canyon. Here are the minimum ages for CANRIV routes:
Ages 6 and up: the Pont du Diable Aqua Rando and the Grenant Junior. Courses specially designed for younger children, with gentle obstacles that can all be bypassed.
Ages 8 and up: the Ternèze and the Versoud. Accessible canyons with a few optional jumps and some more challenging sections.
Ages 10 and up: the Chéran, Montmin, and Angon Découverte. Full-length canyons with great jumps and accessible rappels.
Ages 12 and up: the Pont du Diable, the Grenant, and the Grenant Intégral. More challenging canyons for athletic teens.
The minimum age is a guideline, not a guarantee. An 8-year-old who is very comfortable in the water will be much safer than a 12-year-old who is anxious. If you have any questions, please contact us before booking.
Do you need to know how to swim to go canyoning with kids?
Yes, being comfortable in the water is essential. You don't have to be a competitive swimmer, but the child must be able to move around in the water without panicking if they end up underwater.
For canyons with a lot of water, such as the Grenant or the Versoud, you need to be truly comfortable in the water. For beginner routes, such as the Aqua Rando at Pont du Diable, basic comfort in the water is sufficient.
If you're unsure about your child's skill level, please call us before booking. We'll give you an honest assessment of whether the canyon is suitable or if another option would be better.
What supplies are provided for the children?
At CANRIV, all equipment is included in the price and sized for children:
Children's neoprene wetsuit to stay warm in the water. Helmet designed to protect the head during rappelling and on water slides. Children's harness for rappelling. Neoprene socks to protect the feet.
All your child needs is a swimsuit and sneakers with grippy soles. We'll take care of the rest.
Which canyons should you choose for a family outing?
It all depends on your children's age and skill level. Here are our recommendations based on their profiles:
For little ones ages 6 and up: the Aqua Rando at Pont du Diable is the gentlest course in our lineup. Slides you can ride as many times as you like, emerald-green pools, and no pressure. Dogs are even welcome.
For children ages 8 and up: the Ternèze in the Bauges is the ultimate fun canyon. It features slides, optional jumps of up to 7 meters, and the option to do a second run.
For active families with children ages 10 and up: the Chéran Canyon, with its turquoise waters and jumps of up to 9 meters, is an unforgettable experience. The Angon Découverte Canyon, with its view of Lake Annecy, is also an exceptional option.
For teens ages 12 and up: the Pont du Diable canyon, featuring the legendary Torpille and a final 300-meter swim through the forest, is the perfect all-around adventure.
Are jumps required for children?
No, never. On all CANRIV canyoning routes, every obstacle is optional. Jumps can always be bypassed or rappelled down under the guide’s supervision.
The certified guide tailors the experience to each child’s skill level and interests. No one is forced to do anything, and no one is pressured. The goal is for every child to leave with a smile and eager to come back.
What's a family canyoning trip with CANRIV like?
The process is always the same, no matter which canyon you choose:
Check-in and equipment distribution at the meeting point. The guide distributes the appropriate gear to each child and makes sure everyone is properly equipped.
A short walk to reach the canyon entrance, depending on the route.
Safety briefing before entering the water. The guide explains the rules in simple terms that children can understand.
Descend the canyon at your own pace. The guide assists with each obstacle and adapts the route in real time based on each person’s skill level and preferences.
A fun get-together after the run to relive the best moments of the descent.
And to take home some memories: CANRIV offers professional photo and video packages to capture your children’s first canyoning adventure.
Our Tips for Planning a Canyoning Trip with Kids
Be sure to bring sneakers with good soles. Sandals and Crocs are not allowed in the canyon. An old pair of sneakers that you don't mind getting wet is perfect.
Let the guide know if your child has any specific fears. The guide will adjust their approach to help the child feel more comfortable gradually.
Avoid putting pressure on them before the outing. Let the child explore the canyon at their own pace without promising them jumps they might not want to do.
Book early, especially in the summer. Family outings fill up fast in July and August!
Be sure to check the weather forecast on Météo-France before you go: conditions can change quickly inthe mountains.
To learn more about difficulty levels and safety standards in canyoning, visit the website of theFrench Mountain and Climbing Federation.
Book your canyoning trip with kids :
Canyoning with children is one of the best outdoor family activities in Savoie and the Rhône-Alpes region. An exceptional setting, accessible thrills, and memories that last a lifetime. CANRIV offers excursions suitable for all ages, led by a certified guide, with all equipment included. All you have to do is choose the right canyon.
