Chaley Canyon | An Unforgettable Canyoning Adventure in Bugey, Ain | Canriv

Want to explore the Chaley Canyon in the Bugey region? Natural slides, jumps of up to 7 meters, siphons, and caves to explore: this full-length course is open to children ages 6 and up, with crystal-clear spring water year-round. The perfect adventure for families in the Ain department.

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Canyon Details

A Sensational Journey

The Chaley Canyon, located in the Bugey Mountains in the Ain department, is a hidden natural gem just an hour from Lyon. Set in a wild and unspoiled setting, this trail features a series of natural slides, jumps, rappels, siphons, and swimming sections in crystal-clear spring water that stays cool year-round.

What makes Chaley unique: everything is bypassable, everything is à la carte. Every obstacle can be avoided by staying on the riverbank. No pressure, just fun. A perfect canyon for families, groups of friends, and anyone who wants to try canyoning in the Ain without any hassle.

What you'll love:

Fun natural water slides in crystal-clear water
Jumps of up to 7m—all optional
Siphons and caves to explore or quietly avoid
A historic tunnel dating back to the “ghost train” of the early 20th century
Fresh, pure spring water, navigable even during droughts
Suitable for ages 6 and up, ideal for families or groups
Just 1 hour from Lyon

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Practical Details

Chaley Canyon: Technical Specifications

All the details about the trip—no more secrets (except for the magnificent scenery and experiences we have in store for you).

Chaley Canyon

Difficulty: 1/4
Minimum age: 6 years old
Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Price: 50 for individuals, 45 for groups
Max jump: 7m
Maximum drop: 4 m
Slide: yes
Walk there: 15 minutes
Walk back: 5 min
Internship period: April through October
City: Aix-les-Bains–Chambéry, Lyon
Mountain Range: Bauges

Meeting place:

How's it going?

YourDay at a Glance

From the moment you arrive at the parking lot until the final rappel, here’s how a canyoning trip with Canyons & Rivières unfolds. Every step is designed with your comfort and safety in mind.

Canriv

Reception & Facilities

Welcome to the Chaley Canyon, the jewel of the Bugey! Your CANRIV guide will meet you at the Chaley campground and outfit you with a wetsuit, socks, helmet, and harness. We’ll be heading out in 15 minutes: get mentally prepared for the slides.

On the Way to Adventure

A 15-minute walk, slightly uphill, to reach the entrance to the canyon. The Bugey landscape is already magnificent, and this is just the beginning!

Safety briefing and entry into the canyon

Your guide will explain the rules before you dive into the crystal-clear waters of Chaley. The motto: everything is optional, everything can be skipped. You choose your level of adventure; he’ll take care of your safety.

The Canyon Adventure

The descent begins with a slide and a 3-meter jump to warm up, and then the adventure really gets going. Natural slides, progressively higher jumps up to 7 meters, rappelling down waterfalls, passages through caves, and mysterious siphons. All of this takes place in crystal-clear, cool spring water that makes you want to do it all over again. A unique feature: a historic tunnel dating back to the “ghost train” era, a remnant of the Albarine Valley’s industrial past. A canyon that surprises you at every turn.

The Return of the Adventurers

It takes 5 minutes to get to the starting point. That gives us time to vote on the best jump in the group and decide who will go first.

Removal of Equipment and Return of Materials

We return the equipment and find our belongings dry. The water in the Bugey was cool, but the wetsuit did its job well.

A Fun Time & Memories

We’re taking you on another descent of the Chaley Canyon in narrative mode with your guide—an epic experience guaranteed. And to take home proof of your adventures in the Bugey, CANRIV offers souvenir packages: professional photos and videos in the Standard Package, Couples Package, or Premium Package. Ask your guide for pricing on the day of your trip.

What are our plans?

Logistical Information

Included in the price

Complete gear (wetsuit, neoprene socks, helmet, harness)
Guided by a certified guide
Professional Liability Insurance

Things to Plan For

Swimsuit
Athletic shoes (sneakers with grippy soles)

Requirements

Knowing how to swim
Being comfortable in the water
Have no medical contraindications

There's no doubt about it—you're going to love it

A quick look: :Chaley Canyon

What they're saying:

Natural slides, optional jumps, and paths carved through impressive gorges: they've been there and are sharing their experiences.

Do you have any questions about this program?

We'll answer all your questions

It’s actually the perfect canyon for beginners in the Ain region. Everything can be bypassed, and you can customize your experience. Whether you’re comfortable with jumps or not, the guide will tailor the route to your skill level. No pressure—just fun.

Ages 6 and up! The Chaley Canyon is one of the few canyons in the Ain department that’s accessible to young children. The route is gradual, fun, and can be bypassed entirely. It’s perfect for a first family adventure.

Yes! We love the water, but we’d prefer that you have at least some basic swimming skills. Being comfortable in the water is essential. If you’re unsure about your child’s skill level, call us before booking—we’ll give you an honest assessment of whether the canyon is right for them!

Absolutely not. All the obstacles in the Chaley Canyon can be bypassed along the riverbank. Jumps, siphons, rappels—you choose what you want to do. It’s truly canyoning à la carte.

Yes! That’s one of the great advantages of the Chaley. Its water comes from mountain springs, which means it’s navigable all season long, even during dry weather. A reliable canyon from April 1 to October 15.

Yes, it’s even a sure bet for bachelor parties, bachelorette parties, and groups of friends in and around Lyon and Bourg-en-Bresse. Fun, accessible, and memorable—the perfect combination for an outing that leaves a lasting impression.

Yes! CANRIV offers souvenir packages to capture your descent of the Chaley Canyon: Standard Package, Couples Package, and Premium Package. Ask your guide for pricing on the day of your trip.

The canyon is open from April 1 to October 15, in accordance with the prefectural decree. The best time to visit is from June to August, when you can enjoy the water slides and pools in the most pleasant temperatures.

Ternèze Canyon – in the same vein, on the Savoie side Chéran Canyon – for fans of jumps and beautiful rivers Le Grenant Junior – for kids who want to take their skills to the next level