Toot Toot! All Aboard! On the last blog we were talking about how to cross rivers safely. Up to this point we have scouted a good crossing looked for potential obstacles and good exits and entries. Now its time to get in the drink. There are several methods to crossing streams and rivers, and it will really depend on how much water is there as to which method you choose.
Small streams with clear water can simply be walked across with hardly any technique. Its when you start to get a current involved....well then it can get a little tricky. Three legs are better than two and if you can find a stout stick, or have trekking poles it will increase your stability in the flow. Always face upstream and move slowly and deliberately. Pay attention to your footing. Don't move forward until you are sure that foot isn't going anywhere. Make sure you are concentrating on your exit point and avoid looking at the current. Sometimes that can make you dizzy. always try to have at least two points of contact with the river bottom three is even better.
For larger crossings you can try the train method. This works well for large groups and the more people in line the easier the crossing. Start by lining up single file along the river. You may want the most experienced person as the "Engine" and the second person one of the bigger people in the group. Basically you will be holding on to the persons backpack in front of you to stabilize yourself, and them. Moving diagonally across the stream with the leader calling out the steps Left Right Left Right and so on. The people in the front create an eddy for all of those behind. An Eddy is basically an upriver flow. The calm spots you see behind large rocks in the river create the same effect. The last person in line will have the least current.
ALWAYS make sure your hip belt and sternum straps are unbuckled when you enter the river. If you stumble or trip you can easily eject from your pack instead of going to the bottom that's a sure way to ruin a day!
See you tomorrow with more tips UNDER WESTERN SKIES!
Under Western Skies is a unique Adventure travel company based in Bozeman Montana. We are new to the business but not new to the industry with nearly 20 years in the field of adventure travel, guiding and outdoor education. Raft a remote wilderness river, learn to flyfish, go horsepacking, or explore canyons in the desert southwest. Where will your dreams take you? Let us help get you there! See you Under Western Skies.
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