Canyoning in the Alps. Simon Flower

seasonSummerTimeApproach 30mins (Parking B); descent 6hrs; return 15mins (Parking A)Shuttle(Parking A to Parking B) 8.3km (1hr–1hr 30mins walk)Gear2x30m ropes (2x50m ropes needed for Rasiga Inferiore)Technical notesExcellent rigging on double P-hangars +/– chains (2010). Current considerable above dam – beware of certain pools. Current less below dam, but can still cause problems in the narrower parts.EscapesMany possibilities for improvised escapes above the dam; none below.

      Rasiga is a regional classic. It offers a long and sporting outing, divisible into a number of distinct parts. Rasiga Superiore is the longest. Its first half consists of dozens of well-lit pools and small waterfalls that provide endless possibilities for jumps and toboggans. The river here is of a considerable size, but only occasionally troubles on account of its open nature. The canyon changes entirely at a dam part-way down. From here, the river sinks deeper into the rock, which becomes wonderfully sculpted and polished smooth. The obstacles become more continuous and vertical as the valley dips towards the Bognanco valley, and more technical on account of the closer proximity of the stream. The third and final part (Rasiga Inferiore) is less attractive, with a loose 70m pitch on questionable anchors, and cannot be wholly recommended. This part is described separately as Route 3a.

       Dams upstream and mid-descent (low risk)

      The 23m pitch

      PARKING A

      From the SS33, follow signs for Bognanco. Park a little beyond the turning to Poio/Bosco in a wide parking area on the right, just before the road crosses back over the river into Bognanco-Fonti.

      GETTING FROM PARKING A TO B