Wade, slide and abseil through Murray’s Canyon in Galloway Forest Park — a seaside-adjacent gorge of waterfalls and sculpted rock. Guided UKCA-led trips include wetsuits, helmets, and optional jumps for experienced canyoners.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cold wind threads through the gorge as you clip into a harness and peer down into glinting pools a dozen metres below. Murray’s Canyon tugs at the senses: the rock exhales damp moss, the water dares you forward, and the canyon narrows into a sequence of slides, abseils and secret basins that reward careful movement with sudden, clean views of sandstone cliffs.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate cardio and strength — able to scramble, abseil, and swim short distances; not suitable for those with significant heart conditions or pregnancy.
Wildlife
History
Galloway Forest Park was established in the mid-20th century for forestry and recreation; the canyon itself is a glacially sharpened channel cut into Dalradian bedrock.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace and keep group sizes and noise low; the park is managed for both biodiversity and recreational access, so stay on agreed routes and pack out waste.
Reserve your spot on the Newton Stewart, Canyoning Adventure at Murrays Canyon today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Use the provided kit
Wear the supplied 5mm wetsuit and helmet — the guides fit and check all harnesses before entry into the canyon.
Footwear matters
Choose shoes with sticky rubber and ankle support; neoprene socks with canyon shoes improve grip on wet rock.
Stay hydrated and fueled
Bring an insulated bottle and a high-energy snack; the cold water hides how much energy you burn.
Respect guide decisions
Guides control rope systems and choose jump options; follow instructions to keep the group safe and moving.
Closed-toe canyon shoes or old trainers
Provide traction on wet rock and protection over sand and chert.
Base layer (thermal top and leggings)
Keeps you warm under the supplied 5mm wetsuit in colder months.
spring
Small dry bag or waterproof phone case
Protects snacks, spare gloves and a phone on shore; guides usually take action photos.
summer
Warm change of clothes and towel
Essential for the return journey — hypothermia risk increases when wet and windy.