Nervous about swimming in the canyons or worried you can't swim well enough? You're not alone, and it isn't a dealbreaker. We regularly guide non-swimmers and less confident swimmers through our Blue Mountains wet canyons, and it's manageable and enjoyable with our supportive guides, buoyant canyon packs and optional life jackets available. 

Here are some frequently asked questions about whether you can go canyoning if you can't swim and alternative adventures that can help you feel more confident on the trail.

If I can't swim, can I still join a wet canyon?

Short answer – yes, you absolutely can. 

When we use the term “swimming” in canyoning, we don’t mean doing laps in a pool. In most wet canyons, the “pools” are calm sections of fresh water with a gentle - and often barely noticeable - flow. Sometimes you’ll be able to walk through them. Other times, you’ll float.

In sections where you do need to ‘swim’, this usually means lying on your back with your provided canyon pack and float. A simple waving or sweeping of your arms at your side whilst floating on your canyon pack is often all you need to propel yourself forward. And we’re not in any hurry to get to the other side of these pools, as taking it slow and gazing up at the beauty of the lush green canyon walls is part of the experience. 

How easy is it to float with the canyon pack?

It's relatively easy and simple to float with your pack on your back. The reason you can float so well is that the provided canyon pack includes a drybag with your dry clothes, sealed to keep them dry. It forms a big bubble of air on your back, which is the best buoyancy device you could want. And the canyon pack that contains the drybag ‘bubble’ is strapped at your waist and can also be strapped across your chest with the sternum strap. This gives swimmers and non-swimmers alike added confidence when in the water. 

Can I wear a life jacket even if I can't swim? 

We do have life jackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs) available for those who want that added confidence; however, you can’t wear a PFD and your canyon pack, so someone in your group will need to carry all your personal items while you are wearing the life jacket.  

Our PFDs are rarely used, as most non-swimmers prefer the buoyancy of the canyon pack combined with the sealed drybag. It’s a personal preference, and we’ll support you either way. 

What if I panic in the water? 

You’ll likely have high confidence in the canyon pack and drybag combo, so a situation of panic is highly unlikely. Often, you’ll also be able to touch the sides of the canyon walls in the swim sections, adding to your confidence. If you do panic, your fellow canyoners and guide(s) are there to assist you. 

What happens if I don’t want to swim a particular section? 

Canyons require commitment, as they are passages through beautiful, unique natural environments. For this reason, participants must commit to the journey, including all obstacles, whether swims or abseils. 

Remember, if a swimming section is concerning for you, ask your guide to support you through it. We're here to help. 

What happens if conditions change (such as rain, water levels, or the weather)? 

Canyons come alive in the rain. They are already lush green natural wonders, so rain can and does heighten the experience. 

Too much rain is a concern, and our guides are always keeping an eye on weather forecasts and the water levels. 

Our canyon adventures do not proceed if we have any safety concerns. If groups are already out enjoying their chosen canyon adventure when unexpected weather occurs, the guides will abort or amend the adventure to ensure everyone’s safety. 

What canyons offer minimal or short swims?

• Empress Falls Canyon is a short, sharp, and awesome experience that offers quick swims that are easily supported with your buoyant packs. There are jumps, however, so be prepared for a brief underwater dunk. 
• River Caves Canyon is a great first taste of wet canyoning. You’ll likely only get your feet and lower legs wet unless you’re trying hard to get wetter! 
• Deep Pass Explorer is available year-round with optional swimming, water jumps, natural water slides and pools that can be enjoyed in the summer months. During winter, we traverse around the pools, which are very narrow, so you’ll just be touching the sides in most cases, which will be reassuring for non-swimmers.

What are some non-swimming or 'dry' canyon alternatives?

Our winter canyon adventures are usually referred to as ‘dry’ canyons, as we can avoid getting wet. As a result, these canyons have no need for swimming and can be enjoyed year-round if you’d prefer.

You can view the full range here, but a popular choice is Juggler Canyon, where the water is shallow and can generally be avoided.