Steven A. Ellis
Kennesaw, GA
At 08:13 AM 4/17/01 -0700, you wrote:
>I found the following stream-crossing tips in Backpacker Magazine:
>
>If you spend much time backpacking, eventually you'll find your trail
>bisected by flowing water. Can you cross it safely? Here are the three
>principles of getting to the other side.
>
>PICK YOUR SPOT WISELY
>Don't cross unless you're sure you'll survive a dunk. If you wouldn't be
>able to swim those downstream rapids, look for a place where you can cross
>safely.
>Estimate the river's power (depth x speed). Even shin-deep water can knock
>you off your feet if it's flowing fast enough.
>Look for braided streambeds, which split big currents into smaller, more
>manageable channels.
>Consider the river's conditions--a wide, smooth river is easier to traverse
>than one that is narrow and deep or running fast. The outside of a bend is
>typically deep and fast, and the bank may be undercut.
>Watch for smooth streambeds (indicated by a smooth water surface)-they are
>much safer to cross than rocky ones. But beware of slippery, algae-covered
>stones.
>Make difficult mountain stream crossings early in the morning, before the
>sun melts the snowfields above and increases flow. After a rainstorm, wait
>for the water level to drop.
>
>PREPARE CAREFULLY
>Waterproof critical gear in multiple plastic sacks or specially designed
>"dry bags." :
>Wear socks, slippers, or sandals, even for easy crossings, because cold
>bare feet can get you trip on underwater objects
>For tricky crossings, wear boots, but first remove the insoles so the boots
>will dry faster.
>Three or four legs are better than two, so use trekking poles or a sturdy
>stick.
>Unbuckle your pack's hipbelt and sternum strap and loosen the shoulder
>straps so you can ditch the load quickly if you're swept off your feet.
>
>CROSS QUICKLY BUT SAFELY
>To avoid the biggest hazard-getting an ankle trapped and your body pulled
>under-shuffle your feet, testing the footing as you go.
>Walk diagonally downstream for easiest travel, and drag (don't lift) your
legs.
>In strong currents, link arms with your partners. The upstream person
>breaks the current while the others provide a buttress (see photo below).
>Never tie in to a rope. It can drag you under. If you have to swim, float
>your pack ahead of you and use it for balance. The pack won't sink,
>especially if the contents are in waterproof bags.
>-Steve Howe and John Harlin
>May 2001 Backpacker
>
>--
>Jay DeLong
>Olympia, WA
>
>
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