River Crossing Tips for Backpackers

With our upcoming trip to East Fork State Park quickly approaching, I’ve been thinking a lot about how complicated river and creek crossings can be.

The Steve Newman Worldwalker Perimeter Trail that we plan on backpacking is about 33 miles long, and from what I’ve heard, it features a large number of crossings.

You should know by now that traversing any body of water comes with it’s fair share of risks, so it’s good to be prepared before you hit the trail. That way you’ll know what to do when you encounter a river in your path.

Slippery rocks, strong currents, or high-water levels can spell disaster if you aren’t careful about how you cross, so below we’ve written some tips and tricks that should help you out the next time you meet the river’s edge.

We want you to get across to the other side as safely as possible.

(Disclaimer- This content is for general information only and does not guarantee safety. Always use your own judgment and do not attempt a crossing if conditions appear unsafe. You assume all risk while backpacking or hiking.)

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First Things First, Assess The River

Before you take your first step into the water, you need to take a moment to evaluate its condition.

Is the water deep? How fast is it moving? Is there any large debris?

These are things you need to consider.

Look for wide, shallow sections of river where the water is shallower and moving slower.

Avoid bends or rapids that may have stronger current running through.

The number one rule to remember, is that it is always better to turn back or find an alternative path, than it is to cross unsafe waters and get yourself into a dangerous situation.

No trail is worth losing your life over. Still, people drown every year from situations just like this.

Prepare Your Gear for Crossing

Always unbuckle your waist and chest clips on your backpack before crossing the river. This will help prevent your pack from getting tangled and stuck if you slip and fall into the water.

Secure any loose gear and waterproof your belongings if you can (phone in a ziplock bag).

Waterproofing your key items is the smartest thing you can do, and you’ll be thankful you did when you don’t have to set up a wet tent or dry out your sleeping bag by the fire.

Do not walk barefoot while crossing. There may be sharp rocks, fishing hooks, or other dangerous objects under the water where you won’t notice them.

Tip- Try using a stick or trekking pole to gauge the depth of the water before entering.

Practice Proper River Crossing Technique

Technique is important when traversing bodies of water. Here are a few tips.

-As you are making your way across the river, you’ll want to turn your slightly upstream, facing the current.

-Instead of walking, shuffle your feet sideways to avoid slipping or stumbling.

-Use a stick or your trekking poles to help you across, keeping multiple points of contact with the ground at all times for stability.

-Take your time. There is no rush (unless a bear is chasing you or something), so focus on crossing safely, rather than just crossing.

Time Your Crossing if You Can

Water levels tend to be lower in the morning, and rise and the day goes on.

If you can, try to time your crossings for earlier in the day.

Lower water levels equals easier crossing.

Know When Not to Cross

Knowing when you should or should not cross is just as important as knowing how to.

If conditions are unsafe, DO NOT CROSS.

Conditions to avoid:

Heavy Rainfall
Cold Water
Strong Current
Poor Visibility
Unsafe Footing
Debris, Rocks, Branches

You can always come back another day if the conditions are too dangerous. It’s not worth the risk.

Be smart, so you don’t become a statistic.

Final Thoughts

As long as you approach river crossing with knowledge, preparedness, and a respect for the conditions, you should be able to make it the other side with no problems.

With stuff like this it’s not about if you will need it, it’s about when you will need it.

You WILL inevitably come across a river in your path at some point in your life, especially if you plan on hiking or backpacking as a hobby, so it’s better to be ready for it, right?

Follow these tips, and no crossing will be able to stand in the way of you and your destination.

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Thanks for reading, and until next time, happy camping!