How Do You Cross Rivers and Streams Safely?

Assessing Crossing Difficulty

Before crossing, observe water speed, depth, temperature, and obstacles. Swift water (faster than walking speed) is dangerous. Cold water (below 60°F) causes hypothermia within minutes. Depth is impossible to judge from above—test carefully. Look for shallow sections with slower water. Rapids and waterfalls are typically uncrossable.

Wait for water level to drop if possible—storm aftermath brings highest water. Morning crossing after cold nights means lowest water from overnight temperature drop. Time your crossing strategically. Scout upstream and downstream for better crossing points.

Crossing Technique

For shallow water: use a walking staff for balance and probe depth ahead. Angle your body sideways to the current to minimize resistance. Cross where water runs shallow. For deeper water: form a group if possible and link arms, creating a chain that stabilizes everyone. Move deliberately and synchronize movement.

For fast current: angle downstream slightly as you cross, allowing current to help move you sideways. Don’t fight the current directly. If swept away, float on your back, don’t fight the water, and swim toward shore when you reach slower water. Never attempt to swim upstream—you’ll exhaust yourself.

Maintaining Supplies and Preventing Hypothermia

Keep supplies dry: use waterproof bags or elevate them above water. Change into dry clothes immediately after crossing. Hypothermia develops rapidly in cold water—keep movement constant to generate heat. Crossing during warmest part of day (afternoon) helps recovery time.

If supplies get wet, deal with immediate needs: fire and drying. Wet sleeping bags and clothing cause hypothermia—drying them must be a priority. Shoes and socks squeezed out repeatedly eventually dry near fire. In group crossings, support weaker members and watch for hypothermia signs. Exit water immediately and begin warming if hypothermia symptoms appear.