The Ain is the Rhône-Alpes region’s best-kept secret for canyoning. Less than an hour from Lyon, Bourg-en-Bresse, and Ambérieu-en-Bugey, the Bugey Mountains are home to two radically different—yet equally unforgettable—canyons. Whether you’re visiting with your family for your first canyoning experience or an experienced enthusiast seeking adventure, CANRIV will take you to the most beautiful canyons in the Ain.
2000
+
Satisfied Customers
20
+
An Exceptional Journey
15
+
Years of experience
5
★
On Google
Canyon Details
60€
/person
50€
/person
45€
/person
70€
/person
50€
/person
60€
/person
Here’s a secret: the Ain is one of the most underrated canyoning spots in the Rhône-Alpes region. No crowds, no tourists in shorts hanging around on the banks—just wild gorges carved into the limestone of the Bugey, crystal-clear spring water, and an atmosphere unique to this corner of France.
An hour from Lyon, 30 minutes from Ambérieu-en-Bugey, an hour from Bourg-en-Bresse—you have no excuse not to go.
What We Love About the Ain:
We have our favorites. The ones that make you want to get up early in the morning with one thing on your mind: seeing the look on your face when you go down the first slide.
The canyon for those who want to have fun without any hassle. And trust us, it's anything but boring.
Located in the Bugey Mountains, Chaley features a series of natural slides, jumps, siphons, and swimming sections in fresh, crystal-clear spring water all year round. What makes it unique? Everything can be bypassed. Every obstacle can be avoided by staying on the bank. No pressure, just fun.
👉 Explore the Chaley Canyon
Well, that one’s a whole different story. Le Groin is the jewel of the Ain canyons—and one of the craziest experiences in the Rhône-Alpes region.
Located in Artemare, this canyon cuts deep into one of the most dramatic gorges in the Alps: up to 30 meters high and 3 meters wide. The light filtering through, the almost cave-like atmosphere in the first section, the legendary siphons to navigate while freediving… This isn’t just a canyon. It’s an experience. For those who love to swim, explore, and go where few have gone before.
👉 Explore the Groin Canyon
| Chaley Canyon | Groin Canyon | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | 1/4 — Beginner | 3/4 — Athletic |
| At what age | 6 years | 14 years old |
| Beginner | ✅ Perfect | ❌ Not recommended |
| Experience Required | No | Recommended |
| Atmosphere | Fun, easy to get around | Committed, siphons, long strokes |
| From Lyon | 1h | 1 hour and 30 minutes |
Have any questions? Call us at 06 49 47 70 25 —we'll give you honest advice on which canyon is right for you based on your profile.
Questions about our canyoning trips
In the Bugey Mountains, there are two must-visit spots: the Chaley Canyon for families and beginners, and the Groin Canyon in Artemare for more experienced adventurers. Two different atmospheres, two different skill levels, but the same wild and unspoiled playground.
Yes, thanks to the Chaley canyon, which is open to children ages 6 and up and features obstacles that are all optional. The Groin canyon, on the other hand, is intended for experienced participants—it’s definitely not an outing for young children.
The Chaley Canyon is 1 hour from Lyon, and the Groin Canyon is 1 hour and 30 minutes away. A full day of adventure without having to go away for the weekend—it’s one of the best canyoning options accessible from Lyon.
Allow 2½ to 4½ hours in total, including gear setup , the approach hike, the descent, and packing up.
