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Ghyll Scrambling vs Canyoning - What is the Difference?
Ghyll scrambling (also known as gorge walking) generally involves moving up or down a river course without very much use of a rope. The rivers have large waterfalls and plunge pools to "play" in but generally progress can be made around these with relative ease. Whilst still highly engaging - with optional jumps of up to 10m, slides and climbs - it is generally less technically involved than Canyoning and so the group numbers can be up to 1:12.
Canyoning predominantly involves the descent of steep rivers by way of abseiling, sliding, jumping and swimming. Due to the extensive use of rope techniques this is generally a more intense and adventurous activity than Ghyll Scrambling and for that reason group numbers are limited to 1:4.
Ghyll Scrambling (or gorge walking) is the fun adventure for families, friends or stag/hen parties. With no prior skills or experience needed and guaranteed fun (yep - we said it!) it is the perfect adventure!
For those looking for something slightly more advanced, Canyoning takes Ghyll Scrambling to new heights! With rope skills, big abseils, slides and huge jumps (possible not mandatory) it is the perfect wet and wild challenge! Whilst Canyoning is sport predominately practised in more Alpine areas, Canyoning in the UK has taken off in the last few years with great descents in the Lake District and Wales and so much in Scotland it now even has a dedicated guidebook!
Having spent many years exploring the Lake District's rivers, and descended canyons all over the world including France, Italy, Slovenia, Oman and New Zealand Chris loves heading out for a fantastic jump, slip and slide!
We provide guided canyon and ghyll scrambling trips down some of the UK's top rated canyons!
What prior experience do I need?
To undertake guided canyoning or ghyll scrambling you do not need any prior canyoning or ghyll scrambling experience. For canyoning, some previous abseil experience and a base level of hiking fitness is desired but not essential.
What should I expect?
Ghyll Scramble. A Ghyll scrambling day will typically involve a short day out of about 6 hrs. Approximately 2-3hrs will be spent in the canyon plus approach and descent. Full briefings will take place before entering the river where a plethora of opportunities for scrambling, swimming, jumping, sliding and climbing await! Full itinerary can be provided upon request. A full kit list will be provided upon booking and all necessary equipment will be provided.
Canyon. A guided day out for beginner canyoning will involve a full day, and approximately 3-4hrs will be spent in the canyon plus approaching and descending from the canyon. All rope-work procedures will be explained in full with opportunity along the way for development or learning. Multiple abseils will be made down the canyon as well as slides and jumps . All sections are optional and alternative routes down can be provided. Full itinerary can be provided upon request. A full kit list will be provided upon booking and canyoning specific equipment (such as harness/helmet/wetsuit) will be provided.
Canyoning 1:4 max Ghyll Scrambling 1:12 max
If you are looking to book one of these adventures and are not sure which would suit you/your group best then please get in touch and we can help you out with more information.
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