Canyoning (also known as canyoneering) is travelling in canyons using a variety of techniques that may include walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling, and/or swimming.

Although hiking down a canyon that is non-technical (canyon hiking) is often referred to as canyoneering, the terms canyoning and canyoneering are more often associated with technical descents - those that require rappels (abseils) and ropework, technical climbing or down-climbing, technical jumps, and/or technical swims.

Canyoning, frequently done in very remote and rugged settings, often requires navigational skills, route-finding skills, and other skills and preparation needed for wilderness travel.

Canyons that are good for canyoning are often cut into the bedrock stone, forming narrow slots with numerous drops, beautifully sculpted walls, and sometimes, spectacular waterfalls. Most canyons are cut into limestone, granite or sandstone, though other rock types are found. A canyon that is narrower than six feet (two meters) is called a slot canyon. Canyons can be very easy or extremely difficult, though emphasis in the sport is on aesthetics and fun, rather than pure difficulty. Because of the wide variety of types and difficulties of canyons throughout the world, canyoning is enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

Canyoning gear includes climbing hardware, static ropes, helmets, wetsuits; and specially designed shoes, packs, and rope bags. While canyoners have used and adapted climbing, hiking, and river running gear for years, as canyoning becomes increasingly popular, more and more specialized gear is being manufactured to suit the needs of the canyoner.

Via: WIkipedia
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