Backpacker Magazine – May 2005

How to Ford A River

Forget bears and lightning: The most common and dangerous backcountry hazard is a river crossing. Here's how to do it safely.

by: The Backpacker Editors

» Mark crossings as you plan your route, and call ahead to check water levels. Carry a tide chart if you'll be hiking coastlines.

» Look for a different place to cross if you're in deeper than your knees; scout downstream if you encounter rapids, waterfalls, or obstacles such as fallen trees.

» Always cross a river at its widest point; narrow spots are deeper and faster. Check your map for forks, which contain less water and are potentially easier to cross. On glacial rivers, many braids mean easier wading.

» Cross glacial rivers early in the day when possible, to avoid the higher runoff volume that comes with afternoon melting.

» In muddy or silty rivers, lob a rock into the current; a hollow "ker-ploop" indicates deep, possibly dangerous water. If the rock moves downstream before sinking or you hear rocks rolling downstream, don't ford-the current is too powerful.

» Keep your boots dry by wearing sandals or dirty socks. Only ford a sandy, gentle river barefoot.

» Use trekking poles to balance and probe.

» For fast-moving water, cross at a slight angle, heading downstream but facing upstream. Lean slightly into the current, and step sideways.

» Unbuckle your hipbelt before fording fast-moving rivers.

» For a difficult crossing, ford as a group with everyone locking arms. For three people, form a tripod (everyone facing in, arms locked) and shuffle across. Alternatively, if you have a sturdy rope, tie one end to a tree and send a strong party member across to tie off the other end. Clip in to cross; the last member brings the rope.

» If you fall, don't panic. Remove your pack if it hinders you from getting up. If the current takes you, flip on your back with your feet downstream. When you reach calm water, swim to shore. (For more info on surviving a fall into rapids, see Skills, October 2004.)

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