Fording a River

            Often times while hiking you may come across rivers that are a little swift to guarantee an easy crossing.  Here are some easy tips to save some time, frustration, and gear. 

Check around and see if there is a fork in the river upstream, also consult your map if you have one.  Generally speaking it is often easier to cross two smaller channels than a larger one.  Also at the crossing sight, make sure there are no obstacles (rocks, downed trees, rapids, etc.) that are downstream that could injure you should you fall.   If you think you hear rocks tumbling, assume that there is a powerful current. 

Check different parts of the river.  Wide parts of a channel are usually shallower than their narrow counterparts.  Before you start to cross, prepare to fall just in case by changing from boots to sandals, sneakers, or thick socks to protect your feet.  Also unbuckle chest and hip straps on your pack so you can take it off if you go under. 

Use trekking poles or walking sticks to keep extra balance and to probe the next area you plan to step when in the water.  As you cross, face upstream, lean forward a bit and walk slightly, diagonal downstream, stepping sideways the whole time. 

Also if the rivers around the area you are at are snow fed (like the in the Rockies), make sure to cross them earlier in the day before the temperature rises and makes the river larger.  If you do happen to fall in and are being dragged, shed your pack if needed, and angle your feet downstream so they keep you from hitting any obstacles while you find a way to recover.