Matt's Question
I am taking two of my kids on their first wilderness hike at the end of this month. We have to cross two (thigh deep) creeks to get to where we are going to set up camp. What is the best way to do this without staying wet half of the day? It is going to be fairly cold and they are not going to like it very much.
— Matt
Karen's Answer:
Matt,
First, let me say that you're on the right track to a good hike by planning ahead. Creek crossings can be tough in late fall because the water starts to get really cold (unless you're in a southern location.) I was once leading a group of kids and we got stopped in our tracks by a creek that was running just too fast for safety.
One good rule to remember: If conditions aren't what you expect when you get there, be willing to turn back. Thigh-deep water may not be a problem if it's slow- running. But if it's fast-running, it can be tricky, even for a full grown adult. And remember — what is thigh deep for you might be chest deep for your kids.
If you do think that your kids can make it, you should cross together as a group, holding hands, the smallest person in the middle and the biggest (and strongest) upstream to help break the current. Make sure everyone is wearing some kind of footwear. It's a drag to walk in wet boots, so a pair of sports sandals is often a good answer. Make sure the sandals are fastened securely. If you're not carrying sports sandals, take off your socks and take out the insoles, then put the boots back on. After you walk across, you'll have dry socks and the boots won't feel so bad.
Another possibility is to carry your kids, assuming they're not too big. You'll end up making several crossings for kids and gear, but at least they will stay dry. Probably. Facing into the current helps keep you balanced, because the current is facing you head on, not from the side. Trekking poles also help, although a strong current can create drag and pull them downstream from you. How helpful they are will depend on the current, water depth — and how skilled you are at using them. Be realistic when you gage the difficulty of the crossing — and again, don't be afraid to bail out.
I wouldn't advise using a rope, unless you are specially trained in river rescue. Ropes can entangle and drown people: the force of moving water on a rope is unbelievably strong. If you think you need a rope, you probably need to plan a different hike!
Finally, pay attention to the cold: Cold water plus cold air is a recipe for hypothermia. Bring extra clothes, and have some"warmies" (hat, gloves, fleece jacket) handy so that if the kids chill after a crossing, they can put something on right away. Hot drinks are another good idea.
Finally, talk to rangers before you start to get a feel for current conditions, and maybe even alternatives. After all, the point of all of this is to have fun.
