Family and Beginner Canyoning Adventure in the Vercors
Located in the heart of the Vercors Regional Natural Park, the Rousset Dry Canyon (often called the Pont des Oules Canyon) offers a unique "dry canyoning" experience. Unlike traditional water-based routes, this route invites you to explore a deeply sculpted limestone gorge where water rarely flows. It's the perfect activity for discovering the joys of verticality without the constraint of cold water, making it a favorite outing for families and beginners in spring, summer, or autumn.
This outing combines the magnificent, rocky landscape of the Vercors with the fun of an obstacle course. Descending this wild valley, you'll enjoy an exceptional, secluded setting while learning the basic techniques of canyoning in a friendly and safe environment.
An ideal introduction to verticality
The Rousset Dry Canyon is designed to be accessible yet thrilling. It's an ideal entry point for those who are apprehensive about big jumps or whitewater swimming. Here, the focus is on rope handling and rappelling. Under the watchful eye of your instructor, you'll learn to manage your descender and navigate vertical walls independently. The obstacles flow smoothly, allowing children as young as 8 to gain confidence and adults to discover new sensations deep within the rock.
A breathtaking mineral landscape
The main attraction of this route lies in its spectacular geology. Erosion has carved out potholes, hanging basins, and winding passages with vertiginous walls. As you progress through this limestone labyrinth, you'll be immersed in an almost subterranean atmosphere, where light plays with the shadows of the gorge. It's a true "open-air caving" experience that will delight lovers of wilderness and photography, offering viewpoints inaccessible by traditional hiking trails.
Key Points
To prepare for your outing, here is the essential information about the Canyon Sec de Rousset:
Level : Deacute;butant / Family (Accessible from the first experience).
Minimum age: 7 years.
Length: Half day (approx. 3 hours of activity).
Special Note: This is a dry canyon. No swimming required, but good mobility is necessary for walking and climbing.
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The experience
Obstacles & Sensations
The Pont des Oules canyon is a true natural playground. The adventure is punctuated by a series of varied obstacles that keep you engaged from beginning to end. You will mainly encounter:
Abseiling and Ropes: The heart of the activity. You will make several rappels (up to about ten meters) to descend to the bottom of the gorge. Important Note: These obstacles are mandatory for progression; there is no alternative route once committed, but the heights remain very manageable for beginners.
Zip lines: To add a touch of playful adrenaline, the course is equipped with zip lines allowing you to glide over the void, a highlight for children.
Downclimbing: Between the workshops, progress is made by walking and easy downclimbing.
Safety and equipment
Your safety is our top priority. Supervision is provided exclusively by state-certified guides (DEJEPS Canyoning or Climbing), experts in the Vercors massif.
We supply all technical equipment in accordance with CE standards:
Mountain helmet.
Harness equipped with lanyards and descender.
Neoprene wetsuit (even in dry canyoning, it is provided to protect you from rock abrasion and ensure thermal comfort in the shaded parts of the gorge).
Mountain helmet.
Natural wetsuit (even in dry canyons, it is provided to protect you from rock abrasion and guarantee thermal comfort in the shaded parts of the gorge).
Equipment included
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A pair of neoprene shoes
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A neoprene wetsuit (Seland brand)
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A harness for canyoning
Equipped with lanyards + an eight -
A layer of protection
for water rides -
Helmet
Equipment to bring
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A pair of neoprene shoes
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Warm and waterproof clothes
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Snacks, drinks and a change of clothes
For the way back to the car -
for whole day canyon, something to eat during the descent of the river (protected in a water-proof container)
Location and Logistics
See on Google MapsAccESs & Travel Time
The canyon is located in the southern part of the Vercors, an area renowned for its sunshine and picturesque roads.
From Valence: About 1hr 30min drive.
From Grenoble: Count about 1h 15 (via the Vercors roads or the Col de Rousset).
From Die: Only 30 minutes.
The site is nestled near the Col de Rousset resort, offering exceptional panoramic views over the Diois region as you arrive or leave.
METTING POINT
The meeting point is set directly on site to optimize your time.
Location : Parking du Pont des Oules, Rousset-en-Vercors.
Instructions : From the village of Rousset-en-Vercors, head towards Col de Rousset. Cross the small bridge (Pont des Oules) and park immediately in the parking lot on the right just after the bridge. Your guide will be waiting for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to be able to swim for this canyon?
No, the Canyon de Rousset is a "dry canyon". Water doesn't generally run in it (except after very heavy rain, in which case the trip can be postponed). There is no jumping or swimming. It's the perfect activity if you're not comfortable in the water but are looking for vertical sensations.How to dress for a dry canyon?
We advise you to dress in sportswear such as jogging suits and sweatshirts. There may be a little water in the back of the gorge, so we suggest you wear a swimsuit or sports underwear. You may feel a little damp by the end of the ride. Make sure you wear closed-toe sports shoes (sneakers or light hiking boots) with a good sole, as the rocks can be slippery even when dry.Is vertigo a problem?
This is an introductory course. Although there is some height (abseiling, zip-line), the obstacles are progressive. If you have a panicky fear of heights, this can be a daunting activity, but if you're simply impressed by the heights, this is the ideal place to gently push yourself past your limits, thanks to the guide's reassuring supervision.EMAIL: contact@revedecimes.com
TELEPHONE: +33 (0)6 28 79 89 47



