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Wading Across Water

Before wading across a stream or other water body, you should:

Study the river or stream before crossing!

  • Walk along the edge and look for the best possible place to cross.
  • Look for wide, shallow areas with sand, gravel or cobble bottoms, which are usually safest.
  • Avoid steep or cut-out banks.
  • Avoid the main current!
  • Move from eddy to eddy if possible.
  • Watch for floating debris.

Check the depth!
In clear water, if you can't see the bottom, it's probably too deep to wade.

water mid-calf - careful
water mid-thigh - caution!
hip-deep water - too deep

Be careful when rock-hopping and log-crossing!
Rock-hopping or crossing logs can keep your feet dry, but if you slip, you'll most likely be injured. Rocks and logs can be slippery or loose, and logs may not support your weight.

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