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Short, aquatic and adrenaline-friendly, the Ternèze descent near Curienne packs slides, jumps and a rappel into 150 metres of limestone gorge. This guide explains what to expect and how to prepare for a compact canyoning classic in the Bauges.
Short, aquatic and adrenaline-friendly, the Ternèze descent near Curienne packs slides, jumps and a rappel into 150 metres of limestone gorge. This guide explains what to expect and how to prepare for a compact canyoning classic in the Bauges.
The canyon narrows fast: limestone walls press close, sprays of cold mountain water scatter light, and the river seems to dare you forward. You begin behind Curienne’s town hall, kit clinking, then slip onto a ten-minute approach where the forest parts and the Ternèze drops into a 150‑metre playground of slides, pools and a single rappel.
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Operated by Vertical Way · Curienne, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
The canyon narrows fast: limestone walls press close, sprays of cold mountain water scatter light, and the river seems to dare you forward. You begin behind Curienne’s town hall, kit clinking, then slip onto a ten-minute approach where the forest parts and the Ternèze drops into a 150‑metre playground of slides, pools and a single rappel.
Geology here is honest — the Bauges massif is karst limestone shaped by meltwater and time. Locals long used these gorges for seasonal grazing and freshwater; today the canyon is a compact, athletic expression of that landscape: two natural slides (12m and 8m), multiple optional jumps, a controlled rappel and a shallow siphon that you can skirt if you prefer.
Culturally the route sits in Savoy, where mountain skills and respect for alpine watercraft are part of the outdoor rhythm. Guides outfit participants in neoprene and helmet, and the descent is run with a clear emphasis on safety and repetition — groups often run sections twice for the thrill.
Practical notes: allow three hours for the outing including kit up and travel. Expect slippery rock and cold, aerated water — wear closed water shoes and a neoprene suit (supplied). If you’re comfortable with short rappels and can swim in moving water, this canyon is accessible and hugely rewarding.
Timing matters: mid-summer brings the warmest water but higher crowds; spring runoff can make flows lively. Leave no trace, follow guides’ instructions on jumps and siphons, and be ready to run the slides again.
Yes — guides lead the route, most jumps are optional, and the company supplies neoprene and helmets; beginners comfortable in water will manage well.
Age and weight restrictions vary by operator; booking asks for age and weight — check with the provider but family groups often include teenagers.
Operators may cancel for high water or storms; the policy usually allows full refund with 24‑hour notice for unsafe conditions.
Yes — the standard package includes a neoprene suit, helmet and harness where needed for the rappel.
Vertical Way operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The canyon narrows fast: limestone walls press close, sprays of cold mountain water scatter light, and the river seems to dare you forward. You begin behind Curienne’s town hall, kit clinking, then slip onto a ten-minute approach where the forest parts and the Ternèze drops into a 150‑metre playground of slides, pools and a single rappel.
The canyon narrows fast: limestone walls press close, sprays of cold mountain water scatter light, and the river seems to dare you forward. You begin behind Curienne’s town hall, kit clinking, then slip onto a ten-minute approach where the forest parts and the Ternèze drops into a 150‑metre playground of slides, pools and a single rappel.
Geology here is honest — the Bauges massif is karst limestone shaped by meltwater and time. Locals long used these gorges for seasonal grazing and freshwater; today the canyon is a compact, athletic expression of that landscape: two natural slides (12m and 8m), multiple optional jumps, a controlled rappel and a shallow siphon that you can skirt if you prefer.
Culturally the route sits in Savoy, where mountain skills and respect for alpine watercraft are part of the outdoor rhythm. Guides outfit participants in neoprene and helmet, and the descent is run with a clear emphasis on safety and repetition — groups often run sections twice for the thrill.
Practical notes: allow three hours for the outing including kit up and travel. Expect slippery rock and cold, aerated water — wear closed water shoes and a neoprene suit (supplied). If you’re comfortable with short rappels and can swim in moving water, this canyon is accessible and hugely rewarding.
Timing matters: mid-summer brings the warmest water but higher crowds; spring runoff can make flows lively. Leave no trace, follow guides’ instructions on jumps and siphons, and be ready to run the slides again.