This technique article discusses how to rappel with your kayak to the water and was originally published in Rapid magazine.
Steep walled canyons make accessing some runs a challenge. Down climbing often seems easier but when done properly, rappelling makes canyon access much safer.
Kayakers don’t usually carry heavy climbing gear so we have to do our best with a limited set of tools. Master these four basic components to a rappel and you’ll be tackling runs otherwise left behind.
Anchors
Sturdy trees make great anchors. Tie a segment of nylon webbing around the base of the tree using a water knot and clip on a locking carabiner. Wrapping the rope direct- ly around the tree can damage both the tree and the rope. If a tree isn’t available, artificial anchors such as nuts or pitons also work, though these require more expertise to set securely. Always place two or more artificial anchors to provide adequate protection.
Rope
Think about rappelling when selecting a throw rope. Only rappel off throw ropes with a Spectra core because it’s the strongest option. Spectra has a low melting point so rappel slowly or wet the rope be- forehand to help dissipate heat from friction. Getting adequate rope length may require tying two throw ropes together using a double fisherman’s knot. To ensure the rope doesn’t get caught, untie it from the bag. Feed the rope through the locking carabiner that is attached to your anchor. On more popular runs, secure a fixed line.
Rappel Devices
A harness can be improvised with a long sling. To control your descent, attach a friction device to a locking biner affixed to your harness’ belay loops. A figure eight or ATC are common mechanical friction devices. If you’re rappelling on a single throw rope or fixed line, a Munter hitch can also be used, requiring one less piece of hardware.
Rappeller
To descend in control, face the wall with feet shoulder-width apart and lean back slowly, keeping the rope taut, until your legs are perpendicular to the slope. The breaking hand controls the speed the rope travels through the friction device and must always remain on the rope.
Boats should be lowered separately unless you are descending straight into the water. In this case, secure the kayak to a cowtail attached to a quick release belt on the your PFD. Be prepared for the extra weight to pull you off balance. Another option that’s easier on the rappeller but takes a little longer is to tie the boat directly into the rope.
When paddling with a large group, keep in mind that rappelling is fairly slow and creates bottlenecks. For more information refer to the latest edition of The Mountaineers Books’ Freedom of the Hills.
This article originally appeared in Rapid, Early Summer 2011. Download our free iPad/iPhone/iPod Touch App or Android App or read it here.
