How to Cross Rivers Safely While Hiking

How to Cross Rivers Safely While Hiking

Author: Kit Parks July 31, 2025 Duration: 32:20

Learn how to safely cross rivers while hiking with expert tips on gear, technique, and decision-making. Avoid one of the top causes of trail deaths with these essential tips.  Crossing rivers may not seem as frightening as bears or lightning—but it's the most dangerous part of many wilderness hikes.  

Drowning is the #1 cause of death in U.S. national parks and river crossings are a major threat on trails like the PCT and Appalachian Trail.   

  • Learn how to evaluate river safety before crossing

  • Learn how to choose the best place to cross

  • Learn proper techniques to cross a river safely (solo or with a group)

  • Learn how to handle emergencies like falls and currents

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Join host Kit Parks as we explore the globe one step, pedal, and paddle stroke at a time on the Active Travel Adventures podcast. This isn't about elite endurance; it's about accessible, multi-day journeys that connect you deeply to a landscape and its culture. Each episode dives into the specifics of a single trip, whether it's a renowned long-distance trek, a scenic coastal bike tour, or a serene paddling expedition. You'll hear practical details about terrain, daily distances, and the unique cultural encounters that naturally happen when you travel this way. The focus is on adventures that are achievable for anyone who is reasonably fit and willing to prepare, proving that transformative travel doesn't require superhuman effort. Tune in for honest conversations, logistical insights, and the genuine inspiration needed to move a dream trip from your imagination to your calendar. This podcast is your guide to experiencing the world actively, at a pace that lets you truly absorb it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Active Travel Adventures podcast I Inspiring Multi-Day Adventure Trips Around the World
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