The Canyons Are Calling

A podcast about Canyoneering, Canyoning, Gorging and Exploring

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Shirlz and Dave in Rock Canyon

Shirlz and Dave in Rock Canyon

Epic Stories from the Canyoneering Community

This podcast covers all things related to canyoneering and canyoning. We interview people in the canyoneering community who have knowledge to contribute—whether by providing gear reviews, beta information, sharing first descents, or discussing accidents and mishaps where we can all learn valuable lessons.

Our hope with this podcast is to provide listeners with epic, entertaining, and educational stories that will help us all become safer and more adventurous canyoneers.

The Canyons are Calling... LET'S GO!!

Meet Your Host

Shirlz Jocelyn

Utah native Shirlz Jocelyn was introduced to canyoneering in 2010, a moment that would alter the course of her future. Since then, she has become a passionate advocate for the sport, sharing her knowledge and experiences through "The Canyons Are Calling" podcast.

As a guide and podcast host, Shirlz brings together experts, adventurers, and enthusiasts from the canyoneering community to share their stories, wisdom, and love for exploring the world's most stunning canyons.

Listen to the Podcast

Spotify

Stream all episodes on Spotify

Listen on Spotify

Apple Podcasts

Available on Apple Podcasts

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Featured Episodes

Grand Canyoneering with Rich Rudow and Todd Martin

Exploring how Grand Canyon canyons differ from others across the country with two of the most experienced guides in the region.

North Eastern Canyoneering with Joey Vulpis

Discover canyoning in the Catskills of New York, swift water canyoning techniques, and adventures in the Northeast.

What Not to Do When You Start Canyoneering with Brian Krauss

Learn from mistakes and mishaps to become a safer and more prepared canyoneer.

Wild Sky Adventures with Sam Keller

Exploring wild adventures and the business of guiding in the canyoneering world.

What is Canyoneering?

Canyoneering (also known as canyoning) is an exhilarating adventure activity that combines multiple outdoor disciplines to navigate through stunning canyon environments.

Hiking & Scrambling

Navigate rugged terrain and boulder over natural obstacles

Swimming & Jumping

Wade through pools, jump into crystal-clear water, and slide down natural chutes

Rappelling

Descend waterfalls and cliff faces using ropes and technical equipment

Exploration

Discover hidden natural wonders sculpted by water over millions of years

Canyoning vs. Canyoneering

While the terms are often used interchangeably, "canyoning" is more common in Europe (UK, Spain, France), while "canyoneering" is the preferred term in the United States. Both describe the same thrilling activity of exploring and descending through canyon environments using a variety of techniques.

Top Canyoneering Destinations

Zion National Park, Utah

A canyoneering paradise with dramatic red sandstone cliffs and narrow slot canyons. Famous routes include The Subway, Orderville Canyon, Keyhole Canyon, and Yankee Doodle—suitable for all skill levels.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Offers unique canyoneering experiences that differ from other regions. Technical routes require advanced skills and extensive route-finding knowledge.

Canyonlands National Park, Utah

The Maze section offers remote and challenging routes with steep cliffs and narrow passageways—ideal for experienced canyoneers seeking wilderness adventures.

Southern Utah & Northern Arizona

Popular beginner canyons include Boltergeist, Ghost Rider, Pine Creek, and Left Leprechaun. These areas are perfect for those new to the sport.

Catskills, New York

Discover swift water canyoning in the northeastern United States, offering a different experience from the desert canyons of the Southwest.

Capitol Reef & North Wash

Features accessible routes like Cassidy Arch, perfect for intermediate canyoneers looking to expand their skills.

Safety First

Essential Equipment

Approved Helmet

Protects against bumps and falling rocks

Wetsuit/Neoprene

Maintains body temperature in cold water

Harness & Descender

Essential for controlled rappelling

Grippy Footwear

Specialized shoes for stability on wet rocks

Static Ropes

High-visibility, abrasion-resistant ropes

Canyoning Backpack

With drainage system to prevent water buildup

Safety Guidelines

  • Take responsibility for your own safety
  • Check weather forecasts and avoid canyons during rain or changeable weather
  • Never canyon alone—keep groups small and manageable (4-8 people)
  • Be self-reliant with adequate food, maps, first aid, and safety gear
  • Learn rappelling and self-rescue techniques before entering technical canyons
  • Know the route and canyon difficulty rating (ACA Class system)
  • Carry topographic maps and emergency communication devices
  • Follow Leave No Trace principles—don't alter rock surfaces or place bolts
  • Consider hiring qualified guides when starting out

Join the Canyoneering Community

Facebook Community

Connect with fellow canyoneers, share experiences, and get beta on routes in our Facebook group.

Join on Facebook

Share Your Story

Have a canyoneering story, gear review, or knowledge to share? We'd love to feature you on the podcast!

Get in Touch

Learn from the Experts

Through interviews with gear providers, experienced guides, first descent pioneers, and those who've learned from accidents and mishaps, "The Canyons Are Calling" podcast brings together the collective wisdom of the canyoneering community.

Whether you're a beginner looking to get started safely or an experienced canyoneer seeking new challenges, our community and podcast provide the knowledge and inspiration you need.