Article: River Crossing Safety Tips for hikers

[attroll]

You can view the page at http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/cont...ips-for-hikers

[SawnieRobertson]

Thank you. As a 4' 11" older female, I do not have a lot of fun with crossings like this. When viewing videos, I note that the depth that is just under someone else's crotch is probably just under my chin. IF portage were an option, I'd be for it.--Sawnie

[bamboo bob]

I have always learned that stream crossing is best headed up stream at an angle. Face upstream and slide feet along the bottom of the river. By facing upstream, or at least upcurrent, you'll be able to read the current, as well as prevent the force of the water from buckling your legs at the knees. So I think headed down stream you can can get in trouble also with floating debris hitting you without warning.in #4 on solo crossing you say downstream

[rocketsocks]

For me,facing down stream has always been the norm.I have fished for a very long time and have never seen anyone face up stream that did'nt fall.

[SassyWindsor]

I highly recommend the use of Dry Bags. I use 2, one for down bag and sleepwear, the other for everything else that doesn't need to get wet, the rest can just get wet. My pack becomes a flotation device to cross lakes, or to ride the river when my footing fails while crossing, which unfortunately has happened on a few occasions.