It sounds like you're not doing something right. Are you standing near the correct ledge? Have you closed all five other geyser covers?
The five you need to close to get the 'geyser assisted' journey are: One high up above your starting point, one immediately to your left at the starting point, two lower down and , and one on the pillar above the lava pool.
The one you need to stand on is the one immediately to your right when you begin the Age. Face the wall below the journey cloth.
When you stand on it with the other five closed, it will automatically propel you onto the ledge.