Canyoning · Risoul, La Forêt Blanche
The essentials
At 55 €, La Petite Montagne runs one half-day descent of the Béal Noir canyon near Saint-Crépin, rated "Occasionally sporty", making it a solid entry point into alpine canyoning without requiring prior experience. The session covers the essential canyoning toolkit: rappels, natural water slides and plunge pools carved into the limestone gorges of the Hautes-Alpes. Guides speak French, English and Spanish. Book early in summer, the season runs May through September and slots fill fast on weekends.
The offer
Béal Noir canyon in Saint-Crépin near Risoul, Hautes-Alpes
Frequently asked questions
How intense is the Béal Noir canyon?
The physical level is rated "Occasionally sporty", meaning there are active sections requiring effort but no sustained athletic output. Expect rappels down wet rock faces and jumps into pools, with calmer passages in between.
What is the most intense moment of the descent?
Rappelling down a water-fed cliff face is typically the peak adrenaline moment in this type of canyon. The sensation of descending alongside a live waterfall, with cold alpine water rushing past, is what most participants remember most.
Do I need canyoning experience to join?
No prior experience is required. The "Occasionally sporty" rating confirms this is accessible to beginners. La Petite Montagne guides handle technical instruction on-site.
How cold is the water in the canyon?
Mountain canyon water in the Hautes-Alpes is fed by snowmelt and stays cold throughout the season, even in July and August. A wetsuit is provided or included in the session, so check directly with La Petite Montagne what gear is supplied.
Best time to go
| Month | Temperature | Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0.8°C | 93.3 mm | Possible |
| February | 2.2°C | 114.3 mm | Poor |
| March | 2.7°C | 118.3 mm | Poor |
| April | 7.1°C | 107 mm | Possible |
| May | 11°C | 90.4 mm | Good |
| June | 17°C | 78.4 mm | Good |
| July | 21.5°C | 52.1 mm | Peak |
| August | 21.8°C | 56.9 mm | Peak |
| September | 17.3°C | 84.8 mm | Good |
| October | 11.5°C | 118.3 mm | Possible |
| November | 4.8°C | 126.6 mm | Poor |
| December | 1.4°C | 47.3 mm | Possible |
Practical info
Equipment
Wear a swimsuit under your wetsuit and bring water shoes or old trainers with grip. Given the half-day duration and "Occasionally sporty" level, a small dry bag for your phone and a change of dry clothes for after the canyon are the two things most people wish they had.
Getting there
Meet La Petite Montagne directly at the designated meeting point: Cemetery, 237-211 D738, Saint-Crépin, 05600, a short drive from Risoul via the D38 through the Durance valley.
See also
Updated March 2026