There is great potential for canyoning in the Rhône Alpes, particularly in the Ain, Drôme, Isère, Savoie and Haute Savoie départements. The mountain streams have carved secret gorges which are like aquatic playgrounds where you can practice jumps, abseiling and slipping down natural slides. The Ecouges canyon in the Vercors range, a canyon in the heart of limestone cliffs, is one of the most famous in France.
At the Furon, the upper sections are a hotbed of canyoning, with slides, jumps, abseiling and swimming (perfect for beginners) while the lower section of the stream is the most difficult.
At the Versould, the upper section leads to the Brouillards waterfall, 20m high, while the lowest is a succession of little waterfalls and basins.
At the Chartreuse range with the Infernet gorge, the Vence flows 30m down into a dark and narrow gorge.
The Alloix offers a beautiful succession of waterfalls and more.
In the Bauges range the canyons, which have been designed, equipped and secured, such as the Pont du Diable which features four 5m jumps and one 12m jump, can be also used by beginners, provided they are accompanied by a state certified guide. Trips can also be undertaken at night time, returning around midnight. The first and last people have a head lamp.
Above the commune of Jarsy, there is a simple little canyon, the Précherel canyon, a place for beginners, free from danger since it is always possible to get out quickly.