Discover Canyoneering: Southern California’s Hidden Adventure

Join an introduction to canyoneering, an exciting adventure sport that combines hiking, scrambling, route-finding, rappelling, and exploration through some of the region’s most spectacular landscapes. From narrow sandstone corridors and sculpted slot canyons to hidden waterfalls and remote desert escapes, Southern California offers a surprising variety of canyon experiences that reveal a world beyond the trail. In this engaging presentation, you’ll learn what canyoneering is, why it has become one of the most rewarding ways to experience wild places, and how to prepare for a safe and enjoyable outing. We’ll cover canyon rating systems, the key differences between climbing and canyoneering techniques, and the essential gear used to navigate these unique environments. You’ll also gain practical insights into optional equipment that can improve comfort, efficiency, and safety on longer or more technical adventures. This session will help you take the first steps toward your next adventure. About our speaker: Kase Chong is an experienced canyoneer, certified Association for Canyoneering Education (ACE) Guide, and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) with extensive wilderness rescue experience. A longtime member of Southern California’s mountain rescue community, he has spent years responding to backcountry emergencies and technical rescues, bringing a wealth of real-world knowledge and expertise to this presentation.