Step Over the Edge

© Flickr / Scarleth White

Searching for a way to get out of your head for a while and shake of the shackles of your ordinary life? If heights don't make you shiver in your shoes and you know how to swim, waterfall rappelling might just be your ticket away from the mundane. Waterfall rappelling, or “canyoning” as some people call it, is a hike, rappel, swim and climb all rolled into one.

This adrenaline-infused sport is perfect for multi-taskers, and is not for the faint of heart. You may spend up to four hours hiking rugged terrain to get to a secluded spot before you hear the welcome sound of flowing water. Once at the top of the mountain, hill or canyon, the hiking isn’t over yet. Depending upon the rock formation surrounding the waterfall, you may have to do some climbing to reach an area that is safe to begin the rappel.

As you work your way down the rocks on either side of the waterfall, you’ll experience views that can't be seen from any other any angle. While hanging suspended from the rope lines, take a few minutes to enjoy the wonders all around you – just remember to keep your balance on the slippery rocks. But don’t worry about falling. Your guide should make sure you’re well-harnessed.

Where on earth do you go for beautiful adventures like this?

Utah is for Rappellers

© Wikimedia Commons / Dr Michele RoyonSure, Utah is a primarily a desert, but, Rocky Mouth Canyon boasts a 70-foot waterfall and challenging terrain. You have to first rappel down a 60 foot canyon to the lip of the waterfall. Even during warm weather, the water is cold and you should wear a wet suit to protect your body form the shock of the chilly water pummeling near your body. This canyon tour is suited for only the most experienced, and shouldn't be attempted during times when the water level is high.

As of 2010, organized tours didn't venture far enough into the canyon to rappel from the waterfall. So to get there, you'll have to find a canyoning buddy and pack all the gear you need to scale the waterfall. The first half a mile leading to the waterfall will feel like a casual stroll, but the final half a mile will have you huffing and puffing. Make sure not to forget your helmet and a 60 meter rope for the long and narrow rappel to the bottom. Plan on the entire experience taking at least two hours to complete.

Costa Rica in the Extreme

The island country of Costa Rica is a haven for adventure seekers, and Manuel Antonio Park is a prime destination for waterfall rappelling. If you're a novice, you probably shouldn't “harness up” for one of the Xtreme Canyoning Tours excursions into the wilderness. Before you even start testing your retention lanyards, you will encounter awe inspiring views while walking across the 125 meter long suspension bridge. If your chest tightens a little while daring to look down when traversing the swinging bridge, you probably won't be alone. It's best that you realize it then if being only 45 meters off the ground is too much for you to handle. After the picnic breakfast on the other side of the bridge, there is no turning back for the tour guides and rappelling group.

The tour package provides all of the equipment, breakfast and lunch, transportation from area lodging and a short training session. Although the tours are billed as “safe for beginners and kids” rappelling at extreme heights shouldn't be entered into lightly. You are connected to a host of safety ropes, and the guides are trained to rescue those in trouble, but pushing yourself too soon can ruin what is otherwise an exciting and rewarding sport. The tour takes eight hours to complete.

Maui, Baby

Who knew a trip to Maui could get even better? Maui Canyon Adventures secured a permit in 2010 to add waterfall rappelling and gorge jumping to their list of outdoor adventure tours. The thrill begins long before you finally reach the crest of the canyons. As you hike through the Maui Rainforest, you’ll smell fresh ginger and see exotic animals just doing their thing in the jungle.

© Wikimedia CommonsThe tour company uses rappelling rigs that they say are “dummy proof,” and won't lose tension even if you pass out from sheer terror or splendid delight. While the canyon heights rival those in Costa Rica, this course is much more user friendly for beginners. Forget to pack your hiking boots or tennis shoes? No problem. Maui Canyon Adventures provides canyon shoes, bottled water, rappelling equipment, lunch, a personal flotation device for less than strong swimmers and jackets for chilly days.

You can choose the introductory course and hone your skills on the 20 and 30 foot waterfalls, or go all the way and rappel down a 60 foot waterfall immediately followed by a final 25 foot waterfall. The guides give your plenty of time to cool off and relax in the waterfall pools. After you have rested from the rappels, you begin the 500 foot climb out of the canyon. While the ascent is steep, a set of permanently affixed ropes help you keep your balance while climbing. If you aren't used to working out, start doing some cardio or mild weight lifting to bolster your strength before booking a tour. The full tour takes seven hours to complete.

Climb, Swim, Repeat

The fun doesn't end after you get your feet back on solid ground. Shake off the rappelling gear and enjoy a well-earned soak at the base of the waterfall. As you float around in the water, you might look up at the waterfall and recall Buzz Aldrin’s line when shouting at the moon on his cameo on 30 Rock. “I own you! I walked on your face!”