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Two Methods:Crossing AloneCrossing with a Group

Some methods and tips for crossing rivers.


Method 1 of 2: Crossing Alone

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    Take shuffling footsteps, feeling for the bottom. Try not to look down at the flowing water as this may upset your equilibrium, look ahead for the best possible route. Resist the temptation to grab at submerged or semi submerged rocks in transit, as this may upset your balance.

Method 2 of 2: Crossing with a Group

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    Members of the party stand in line abreast.
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    Each member places their hands behind the back of the person on either side of them and grasps the lower part of that persons pack shoulder strap. (or clothing if no pack is worn) This will 'interlock' the party. If a pack does not have a quick release buckle on the hip belt, then the hip belt should be left undone and clothing grasped instead.
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    Enter the water parallel to the current, the strongest member of the party in the upstream position. This will break the flow for the others. Move with the upstream person just slightly ahead of the next person downstream and so on down the line. If a member of the party should break away during the crossing, the remaining members should maintain formation and either back out, or complete the crossing before attempting a rescue if necessary.
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    Crossing in Groups of Three.
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    Enter the water in the shape of a triangle, each member facing inwards, arms linked and each grasping the person to either side of them. The heaviest person should be at the point of the triangle directly facing the water flow on the downstream side of the triangle.
  6. Cross Rivers Safely Step 9.jpg
    In turn, each member moves one step at a time, supported by the other two.

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  • Release the waist and chest strap on your pack before crossing - this way you will be able to free yourself quickly if you lose your footing or find yourself in a position where your pack is snagged and holding you down. It is well to remember that your pack has a certain amount of buoyancy and can serve as a flotation device if necessary.
  • With any crossing, ensure that important items are stowed in waterproof areas of your pack. (Plastic rubbish bags make good pack liners)
  • Do not cross wearing long pants, these will increase resistance to the current.
  • If you lose your footing and are carried away, release your pack but hold onto it. Float with your head upstream, this will allow you to fend off from any obstacles with your feet.
  • Generally, in areas of snow, try to cross early in the morning before snow melt has added to the flow of a river.
  • If possible, view the river from above to identify the shallowest point and smoothest area of river bed possible, avoiding submerged snags, boulders etc.
  • Before attempting a crossing, scout along the river for possible bridges or shallow braided sections.
  • Generally, the safest area to cross will be a straight section between bends in a river. If you imagine the river in the shape of the letter 'S' then the safest area to cross will be the middle of the 'S' between the bends. That way, if you should lose your footing, hopefully the current will carry you into the bank on one of the bends. Realize though, that water can be deeper and swifter at bend sections, so always look for the best 'run off' section of a river that will carry you to a safe point and not into danger if you lose your footing.
  • Keep your boots on. Wet boots are preferable to damaged ankles or feet.


  • Using a rope to assist in crossing is not generally a good idea and could be hazardous unless it is anchored correctly and a proper technique used. Ropes can hold people under the water, entangling the person crossing and preventing their ability to swim. They can also become snagged on the river bed or to a rock, pinning the person in the river. A rope may also end up pulling someone from the bank into the river.
  • Remember, flowing water is deceptively strong. Do not view river crossings lightly.
  • Do not attempt to cross a river that is in flood.

Sources and Citations

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Categories: Backpacking and Hiking | Outdoor Safety

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Español: Cómo cruzar ríos con seguridad


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