Canyoning
Handbook
Published in September 2026, the Canyoning Handbook is a practical reference guide designed for canyoners who want to develop their knowledge, technical skills and understanding of safe progression in canyon environments.
Developed by the UIAA together with the Petzl Foundation, and with contributions from experienced canyoning professionals and instructors, the handbook covers the natural environment, hydrology and hydrogeomorphology, equipment, group management, rope techniques, vertical sections, obstacle management and rescue techniques.
How to order a digital copy
The Canyoning Handbook is currently only available digitally and in English and in French. Combining concise explanations with clear technical illustrations, it is intended both as a learning resource and as a reference for instructors, trip leaders and experienced practitioners wishing to refresh or develop their skills. The book can be purchased below or from the following link.
What is in the Handbook?
Over 100 pages and several chapters the Handbook covers canyoning comprehensively, from environment to technique. It opens with the canyon ecosystem, biodiversity, risk factors, and trip preparation. A hydrology section explains flash floods, hazardous water features, and reading water and terrain. An equipment chapter details clothing, gear, and rope selection, including why UIAA-certified equipment matters.
The bulk of the publication addresses progression skills: communication, essential knots, anchor systems, and moving through varied terrain, white water, and vertical or exposed ground, including rappelling technique. Further sections cover obstacle access (hand lines, supplementary anchor systems), vertical rope work (rappel stations, releasable systems, lowering canyoners), arrival pools, and rope wear management. A troubleshooting section covers emergency exits and rescue techniques, including cut-away rescues. It closes with a grading and evaluation system for canyons.
Also available from the UIAA:
Alpine Summer Skills Handbook
This Alpine Summer Skills Handbook was first published in 2013 and is intended for hikers, climbers and mountaineers who wish to progress in the practice of their favourite activity by acquiring additional knowledge and skills. The Handbook is the result of close collaboration between the UIAA and the Petzl Foundation. A new and fourth edition of the Handbook was released in English at 2024 UIAA General Assembly. A digital format can be purchased here.
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