How to Cross Water on a Hiking Trip

In spring, when the snow melts into streams and rivers, crossing them could be the most challenging obstacles you will face. If it was a major crossing try to plan for it as early in the day as possible because the water will be running slower due to cold night temperatures.

The trail leading to the water's edge is probably the best place to cross a stream or river except maybe in the late spring and early summer. The river is running at its highest during this time.

The safest place to cross is where the water is calm and no deeper than hip high. This is usually around river bends where the stream widens and slows for the turn.

You can have a rough idea of how deep a river is by looking at how dark or light the water is. In general, the darker the water the deeper it is. Be wary of powerful currents as well and make sure the bank on the other is not steep or undercut or you'll have a hard time climbing out of the water.

Avoid turbulence that causes white water because they are always dangerous. One misstep can could potentially get you drowned by the force of the water. Also avoid crossing upstream of rapids or waterfalls.

Some people may be afraid or reluctant to cross a river. This could be a problem because things can go wrong when people are nervous. Offer to carry their backpack or if they're still reluctant, turn back and walk upstream to find an easier crossing.

Using trekking poles and facing diagonally upstream can help you keep your balance when you wade across a river. It is often the safest option when crossing moving water.

It is advisable to keep your boots on when wading across a river to protect your feet. But you can take off your boot liners and socks.

Keep your backpack loose and unbuckled in case you fall and need to remove your backpack quickly. If you're in a group, link together and put the strongest hikers at the ends. Move slowly in a line and diagonal to the river's current.

Sometimes a river can have large rocks in them that makes it easy to do some rock hopping, sparing your feet from getting wet. This is best when you use trekking poles for balance.

You need to be careful though because the rocks can be slippery and unstable. Whenever possible, test your steps before committing your weight. If it turns out that a rock is unstable and you have already committed to a step, move quickly to the next step, using your trekking poles for balance.

You should remember that it's ok to step into the water if you start losing your balance. It's better to get your feet wet than to fall into the river and get your whole body wet.

If available, you can also use the wooden bridges. Some bridges are well-engineered but some require you to test it for stability. Always check to see if the bridge is fixed at either end.
If the bridge is to narrow or unstable to walk on, try to shuffle across in a sitting position. Never cross on a log jam as they dislodge very easily.

Using a rope fixed in place can give you added security. To avoid getting tangled in case you lose your balance, stand on the downstream side. Note that it may be dangerous to attach yourself to the rope as you could be held underwater by the force of the current.

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