The Gorges des Écouges is one of the most renowned descents in the Vercors. Technical, vertical, and challenging, it constitutes a true gateway to major canyoning expeditions. Its exceptional atmosphere, waterfalls, and deep gorge make it a benchmark for experienced practitioners. Its physical characteristics are quite similar to the Gorges de Pussy in Tarentaise.
The first section is entirely dedicated to rope techniques. Abseils follow one another, often in contact with the water, with several vertical drops of 20 to 30 metres requiring the installation of handrails and arrivals in sometimes turbulent pools. The route offers practically no escape possibilities and requires good control of canyon progression techniques.
The flow rate strongly influences the difficulty. Depending on the conditions, the canyon can quickly become very technical, or even impassable. Each outing is therefore preceded by a careful analysis of the conditions in order to guarantee a descent in the best safety conditions.
This outing is intended exclusively for experienced canyoners, accustomed to abseiling and navigating challenging canyons. You must be comfortable with key safety procedures, particularly with releasable systems at the top and bottom. On this type of route, I also appreciate being able to rely on at least one experienced participant who can assist me occasionally with certain manoeuvres.
The descent finishes with an impressive final 65-metre waterfall, which spills out directly at road level.
To make the most of this day in the Vercors waters, you can continue with the second part of the Écouges canyon. Much more accessible and fun, it alternates between small abseils, jumps and slides in a more open setting. This contrast between the two sections is what makes this outing so unique.
The Écouges canyon is one of the most renowned descents in the Vercors. Technical, vertical and committed, it appeals to canyoners seeking a demanding route in an exceptional setting. For many practitioners, it represents a true gateway to major canyoning expeditions.
The Écouges canyon is reserved for experienced practitioners. You must be perfectly comfortable with abseiling, have already completed several sporting canyons, and be familiar with the main rope safety manoeuvres.
No. The upper part of the Ecouges canyon descent is too technical for a beginner. However, the lower part is suitable, as are the nearby Furon or Versoud canyons. The two can even be done one after the other.
The canyon combines many long abseils, a deep gorge, sometimes challenging water features, and very few escape routes. Its difficulty level also depends heavily on the water flow.
The summer period is generally the most favourable. However, flow conditions remain decisive and are assessed before each outing.
Live with your guide, from first contact to the summit.
Creative and flexible
A flexible framework for devising the most appropriate itinerary or activity for each day, depending on the group and the conditions.
