How to cross rivers safely? A list of ideas and two photos from the trails

Log bridge to the Arch Rock in the Alum Cave trail. Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Photo: Still Gravity.
Log bridge in the Alum Cave Trail in the Smoky Mountains - License our images here.        

Use a bridge! 

No bridge? Then... this is the theory, but no guaranties. 
  • The main danger is the current. Check its strength and direction. 
  • Slow and slightly deep water is safer than low and fast.
  • Check what lays up and downriver - submerged stuff can be a deadly trap if taken by the current. 
  • Avoid turbid waters.
  • Check for dangerous wildlife.
  • Wait if the water level is high. Camp until next morning if there is snow drainage - level will get lower with the cold of the night.
  • Chilly waters are dangerous.
  • Snow bridges are risky. 
  • Plan ways to break free from the current if pulled downriver.
  • Cross through a straight section of the river.
  • Untie the backpack. If the current takes you down, drop it. 
  • Don't remove your shoes. 
  • Cross in a small diagonal angle. 
  • Face the current while crossing. 
  • Step on lower rocks. Avoid the flat ones, they may be slippery. 
  • Don't cross the legs.
  • Use hiking poles or a stick for wading and extra support.
  • Secure each step before taking the next. 
  • If took down by the current, point feet downriver and rest on your back.
  • Beware if crossing on fallen logs. They can move or one can lose the balance.

River crossing over a small waterfall in Alabama - Photo: Still Gravity.
River crossing in Alabama - a natural bridge in this waterfall.           

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