Great canyoning image that I shot with Extreme Canyoning Team got published on the cover of Reflections Magazine, April 2017 issue. Inside of the magazine there also is a great article about Canyoneering, a discipline whose popularity is growing lately. I am very proud that my images are being used in promoting this great outdoor activity that connects people with true nature.

CONSIDER CANYONEERING – HIKE, CLIMB, SWIM AND RAPPEL YOUR WAY TO A NEW HOBBY.

True canyoneering (sometimes called canyoning) is the sport of traversing through a gorge and its waterfalls using multiple techniques including abseiling (rappelling) bouldering, cliff jumping, hiking and swimming. It’s still a burgeoning sport in the Pacific Northwest, and the equipment necessary is expensive and extensive, but those who are dedicated will find one the greatest canyoneering spots in the country locally at the Columbia River Gorge. The following are known to be good trails for figuring out whether this is the activity for you.

ONEONTA GORGE
A good trail for dipping your toes in the sport of canyoneering is Oneonta Gorge, a well-traveled trail that navigates over logjams and includes a stretch of trail that requires wading through chest-high water. However, it’s one of the most popular hikes in the Columbia River Gorge, so if you want to play around plan on a weekday excursion.

EAGLE CREEK GORGE
This trail includes dozens of misting waterfalls so be prepared to get wet, even if you don’t plan on jumping in. A longer trail, about 12 miles, this trek covers a wide variety of terrain and will test your threshold for heights in a few ways. But beware, this trail has had some infrastructure problems in the past few years, so be sure to check trail reports before going.

UPPER MCCORD CREEK FALLS
After only about a one-mile ascent, canyoneers are greeted with a spectacular double waterfall that lends itself to climbing, rappelling and general marveling. The views of the gorge and Mt. Adams make it a short but sweet adventure. You can also extend your trip by returning to the trailhead and then heading up a neighboring trail to Elowah Falls.

OTHER CANYONS WORTH EXPLORING
The Columbia River Gorge is arguably the best spot for canyoneering, but there are dozens of other canyons in the Pacific Northwest that offer terrain perfect for adding some variety to your regular hikes.

HELLS CANYON
Most noted for being the country’s deepest river gorge, this canyon is located on the border of Eastern Washington and Oregon and Western Idaho. Due to its large size, people flock to it for white water rafting, hiking and horseback riding. But, it makes for a great place to learn about canyon terrain and to test out your traversing skills.

APE CANYON
A very different type of terrain, Ape Canyon was formed by lava flow on the south side of Mount St. Helens. It now offers adventurers an interesting landscape of tunnels and beautiful views. Follow the Ape Canyon trail for about 11 miles and explore all the unique features of this area.

Written by: Lauren Hunsberger

ABOUT REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE

Reflections is the monthly magazine for members of the Bellevue Club, one of the nation’s finest social and athletic clubs, and for guests of Hotel Bellevue, an award-winning internationally recognized luxury boutique hotel. The magazine’s editorial focuses on health and fitness, and Club activities and events. Reflections is published monthly and is issued on the first day of each month. Circulation is to all membership families, corporations, Hotel Bellevue guests, advertisers and prospective members.