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Crossing Streams and Rivers Safely

· Take the time to thoroughly investigate well above and below where you want to cross. Make certain there are no waterfalls or swift rapids below, in case you stumble.

· If the water is more than knee deep and very swift at the most favorable spots, consider turning back, outflanking the stream via a long detour, or waiting until the water flow decreases.

· For steams fed by snowmelt, consider waiting until the early morning to cross—at that time, such steams may flow at far lower levels than during the heat of the afternoon.

· Always wear shoes to protect your feet from sharp rocks. If you’ll be wading quite often, consider wearing lightweight boots with uncoated fabric panels and polypropylene socks for quick drainage; gaiters will help keep out sand and gravel.

· Before wading try to estimate the stream’s depth and toss a twig in to gauge its speed.

· Loosen your pack straps and unhook the hipbelt and sternum strap in case you fall in.

· While crossing, use a hiking staff, trekking poles, or a sturdy branch to help maintain balance.

· Cross facing upstream and move sideways so your three points of support form a triangle. If the current is swift, choose a path that takes you diagonally across and downstream so that you won’t have to fight the force of the water quite as much as you lift each foot.

· If using a rope handline, never tie yourself to it—if you fall, the rushing water can hold you under—and always cross on the downstream side of the rope.

Adapted from Wilderness Basics, 3rd Edition by The San Diego Chapter of the Sierra
Club (The Mountaineers Books, $16.95 paperback).

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