LOOK OUT BELOW! - Canyoning in the Blue Mountains

Canyoning is defined as doing a hike through a canyon where you will be required to cliff jump into pools of water, abseil (or repel) down or through waterfalls, slide on natural slides and swim in pools of water. Canyons themselves are formed through millions of years of water flowing between mountains, breaking down rock formations and eventually creating a gaping hole to allow the water to flow through (that's your scientific lesson for the day).

My first experience was in Interlakken, Switzerland. As it was great fun and a chance to bond with your mates, I decided to organize a trip out to the Blue Mountains to see if this could be repeated.

I was definatley impressed with the canyon we went into. It was called Serendipity. Our journey begins with a hike down a steep path that takes us to the gateway. There we put on our wetsuits and scale down the cliff wall as we are held up by only a piece of rope! From there we continue through puddles of water often reaching waist high. I would have to say our highlight of the day was when we jumped off the ledge into a small pond (rocks on both sides), then followed it up with one final abseil through a waterfall.

Though the overall canyon itself was not as technical as in Switzerland, it was a great way for everyone to feel what it's like to do the sport. It was also another opportunity for us to get a bit more intimate with the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains.

- the lone asian