As a whitewater kayaker we always stress that if you get washed downstream keep your feet as far out of the water as you can get them. As one of my favorite guides always says, “get in the give birth position.” Foot entrapment is one of the main causes of death in rivers.
As a fly-fisherman I've spent a lot of time wading rivers. Just like to say that your advice is sound. Especially facing somewhat upstream and by all means take your time. Don't move one foot until the other foot and your poles are secure.
In the Sierra I take off my socks and then put the trail runners back on to cross the creek. A quick towel drying of the feet afterwards works and then I put shoes and socks on as normal. I tried the barefoot thing, but with snow/glacier fed creeks the feet get numb really fast. Shoes/no socks does the trick for me.
Another important safety thing to know if you are swept of your feet and floating down the river: do not try to stand up before you are in calmer water ! There is great risk that you step between boulders and you can get trapped with your foot between them while the force of the moving water will pull on your body. You can drown in that way in relatively shallow water...
Yep! I mention that you should wait until the water is calm before swimming to shore instead of fighting the current. It definitely would be bad to get a foot caught between rocks and drown like that. Scary! Thanks for the input.
Hey Dixie... I just wanted to say THANKYOU and gosh am I happy I watched this before heading out on my first solo camping trip. I needed to do about 5 crossing, ranging from knee to waist deep. I think without seeing your video I wouldve had a terrible, potentially even dangerous time. But I just took it slow, used a big old branch as a stabilising stick. Thanks for sharing this invaluable knowledge, it really saved me and gave me more confidence.
Hiking staff (or poles whichever you prefer), a carabiner, and about 5 to 10 feet of paracord. Tie off the cord to your staff and hook up your pack with the carabiner. If you go down while fording just jettason the pack and keep a grip on your staff being mindful of where the line is (preferably not around your neck or limbs). This gives you a tether for your pack in the event that you should stumble. BTW, use this at your own risk because it can be potentially dangerous if for some reason you get tangled up in the para cord.
An idea I just thought of. (and I've never through hiked anything yet) But I do have lots of river experience and figured, just use water socks. Like use them as your camp shoes as well but that way you have water socks when you need them. They are not that heavy if you get some inexpensive ones.
Yes, crocs are used commonly for camp shoes. I used sandals for my camp shoes, so that's why I crossed in them. Crocs are lightweight and have the strap on the back which is nice! I just didn't want to buy something I didn't have yet, so I went with shoes I already had.
Good sound advice all around. I have always preferred to cross wearing my boots/trail runners for the better traction, but usually remove my socks. Just tighten up the laces a bit. Boots are wet, but socks are dry.
If you have some means of trapping air in your backpack, it can turn it into a flotation device. For example, if you have a heavy duty (contractor) bag inside your pack and you squish the mouth together and twist it and then bend it double and tie a string around it, that will help keep air trapped inside while still allowing you to open the bag without tearing it later.
Never Ever Cross a River Barefooted. There are so many stupid dumbasses that throw stuff in the water that well cut you deep. I know because I crossed a river, that was sandy bottomed at I have a 5 inch scar on the ball of my left foot under the big toe to remind me of how stupid I was. After I bled for a few, I stuck my foot in the air, laid down and got out my first aid kit, I would love to express the pain in a few choice words but lets just say I was screaming adult things to the world as I stitched it up. I now have a new respect for kangaroos. And like a true newb, I was hiking alone. I think I should change my trail name to hop-a-long.
If you're with a group and want to fix a rope to hang on to for crossing, make the length twice as wide as the river and loop it around a tree on the side you're starting from, having a member from your group tie it off on the opposite bank. That way, the last person doesn't have to untie the rope and go without it, just cross and pull it across behind you.
Hi Dixie, Nice advise you have on that topic. I just thaught of having kinda survival Kit on your body just in case you have to ditch your pack in the River. Someting like Neckknife with firestarter, mylarblanket in Pockes, PLB, PowerBar, Phone, Torch, etc. very interesting videos like it a lot.
Like she says: it's all personal preference. My preference is to NEVER unbuckle my waist belt when crossing because it unstabilizes the load and makes balancing on slippery rocks and through rushing water that much more difficult. If I was to fall (and I certainly have) I can get out of that fully-buckled pack in seconds. Try both ways and see what you prefer.
Once again, really good advice. I tried rock hopping too, and wound up stepping on a loose Boulder and fell in. I realized later that crocs are invaluable for such crossings. As well as useful in camp. When I got my hiking boots wet, it took hours for them to dry out.
Some very good points. One technique is to hike with a set of TEVA Sandles. Putting some dirty socks on will help protect your feet. TEVA's are a little heaver than the ones that you used, but your still applying the principle. If one crosses the stream with one's boots of trail runners, then here is a Special Forces tip. When many streams are to be crossed in a day or night this works well or can also be applied when just one stream is crossed. On the other side, remove your foot gear. Remove your socks and ring them out the best you can. Then dry your feet and the inside of your boots/trail runners. Remove insoles and do the same. We always had what we called a "Drive On Rag" around our neck or head, made of cotton. Usually they were old first aid OD slings. We used them to accomplish this and for many other uses. Apply foot powder to your feet, put your damp socks back on and then foot wear. Finish the hike and then remove socks and boots, dry them out and either hang out your socks and air your boots, or if raining, sleep with the socks next to your body to help dry them overnight. My cousin Jim Murry used the "next to body drying technique in Europe in the winter of WW-2 in the ETO. Today few hikers have the good old canva and leather Vietnam War Jungle boots. They were the only US Army 9 inch boots that I ever liked except for the artic boots. I like ankle boots with gaiters or puttees better. However the jungle boots had vents that the water would run out of the boots, and in hot humid climate one could truck on until evening and RON "Rest Over Night" position, and then apply the above. I really like your idea of sending a strong group member over first with a line to help the others cross. You have a lot of good experience for sure.
Thank you!! I am looking to do the JMT next summer, and this is something I'm a little nervous about because I'll be by myself. Actually I'm pretty scared about quite a few things haha, but your videos are really inspiring and helpful :)
Hey Rachel, thank you! I'm glad they are helping you warm up to the idea of being alone. It's weird at first, but I bet you're gonna love it and the experience will be a huge confidence booster. You've got this!
I'm a canoer and sometimes when the water on a river has been calm and beautiful and high for a while and then you start to hear the water... and it would always be the next dam or some other white water. Totally understand the getting nervous part :D Keep up the awesome vids.
If you end up going on an unplanned trip down the river you should 1. keep your feet pointing down river and up at the surface so that they do not get caught in rocks 2. you will most likely have a pack liner or stuff sacks in your backpack and these should at least for a little while keep your pack buoyant. If you can you should bear hug it to help you stay on the surface If you loose your pack though it will most likely eddy out not too far downstream so it would be a good idea to hike along the stream and try and find it.
Crossing rivers is probably the most dangerous activity most walkers will experience. As a Mountain Leader, we were always taught that river crossings should only be undertaken as a last resort. Considering how dangerous crossing a river is, why doesn't Maine construct some lightweight wire traverse bridges over the streams/rivers like they have in New Zealand?
EasyCookVideos no clue. I also ask why they don't put more/better stairs in the Whites. You can't say the people maintaining the trail don't care about safety, but certain areas kind of make you scratch your head because they really aren't safe.
In picking a spot to cross have a look at what's downstream in case you should lose your footing. Any dangerous rapids or overhanging trees that you might get caught in? Shoes or no shoes? Depends on what you're walking on. If it's rocks that might be covered with slippery moss or of just the right size to jam your feet between, i'd prefer to wear boots or shoes.
Dear Dixie: It would be a good idea if you start making videos about you planning and preparations for the CDT. For example: 1. What will be your resupply strategy? 2. Is there a guide to the trail? It is not well marked, right? How are you going to navigate it? Do you need a map and compass? 3. Are you going “solo” or with your friend Perk? 5.What are the challenges of that particular trail in comparison with the AT and PCT? Good luck, Julio
I was hiking the jmt and started out always wearing sandals but after like 3 or 4 crossing back to back I just went through with my trail-runners and that's what all the pct hikers did
My biggest fears with fording was losing my flip flops. I've been thinking about using a carabiner and some shock cord to make a heel loop, nothing sturdy or anything. The first time I went skydiving the scariest moment was when I stuck my foot out to step on the ledge and my shoe almost flew off!
I've yet to hike the AT, so I don't know what river/creek/stream conditions are like; but in my experience, calm, slower water usually means deeper too. If you attempt to cross a section of deeper water any distance from rapids, be aware that you may have to hold your pack above your head. You'll have to weigh your wetness ratio against your fear of slipping and getting cut up.
I find that finding a large sturdy (dead) branch, that reaches over your shoulders, can help. It must be strong enough to lean into. Also when in doubt, go in with shoes if you have nothing else.
I am still in the planning stages. Honestly, I didn't buy my first piece of gear for the AT until February and I started at the end of March. I will definitely make some videos about the planning, though!
I've done a swift water awareness course as part of my training with out state emergency service ( NSW State Emergency Service, in Australia), and what Dixie has said is very true. Brace yourself with your hiking poles or a heavy stick, lean into the flow, and if you do get washed away, ditch your pack, and float on your back feet first. If you get to deep water, look for an eddy and use it to take you to the shore.
if your floating down river, dont forget to keep your feet up! That's very important as they can get caught in rocks causing you to drown. Not an expert, just something I've heard.. :)
Since I have never went NoBo, I am not certain, but I think that the rivers in Maine would be more aggressive in the spring (for the SoBo) with all of the fresh winter snowmelt. Just somethin' to think about. Any words of wisdom on this for someone who is trying to decide which direction to hike?
So what if you don't know how to swim? LOL Yep, I'm 46 and never learned. Are the rivers and streams flowing fast enough that it can take you down? And would you say that the trekking poles make it easier to stay upright in a faster stream?
Tanner Lotito 331 good question; I have heard people say be sure to have the official AT maps; and I watch a girl on youtube (forget the name) who took the guide (or at least the pages for the trail) and threw them away as she finished the sections; or maybe she used them as toilet paper? idk 😂 I’ll see if I can find her name now and come back and post it; I only saw her video where she said she only had a few pages left; imo it’s kind of a cool way to mark the journey 👍🏼 but I bet it adds a lot of weight
Maybe that's something I can cover in the future. I think at some point you just get something in your mind and you decide you're going to do it...and nothing will stop you. It's all about getting the right mindset. Then all the rock walls or rivers can't keep you from reaching your goal.
Just a point worth looking into regarding ropes: They can sometimes be more dangerous than no rope. Clipping onto a rope especially has led to drownings. After reading about it I would make sure to learn proper technique before using rope.
+++++ Another great video! You explained some basic fluid dynamics very clearly. When you make it into a quiet, slower, shallower area, you pack should be nearby, especially if stuff sacks and waterproof bags grant positive buoyancy. Now, the otters, trout, and sea lions, as opposed to raccoons, mice, and bears, might be nibbling their way in for the delicious chocolate bars, buts thats a different story!
which is worse, blisters that can be covered with moleskin, or stepping on sharp objects, stubbing your toe, slipping and possibly causing head injury or worse? I always wear shoes in the rivers and creeks. Maybe keep an old pair of shoes just for that use.
I just linked to Amazon from your link to make a purchase!!!.. I hope that helps you on your adventures!!! I buy stuff all the time.. I may link thru your site for everything!! WOOT
Again, great video, comprehensive, nicely edited. And of utmost importance, CDT, PCT, and as you inform us, Dixie, AT in Maine. I would recommend attending a field workshop on this one. We can listen and read (www.backpacker.com/survival/how-to-ford-a-river/) but nothing beats practice. Cold, high water, one slip, over.
There are definitely some noises I heard that left me wondering what it was, but I didn't see anything that resembled bigfoot. One of the guys I hiked around for a bit though is convinced that someday he will find bigfoot.
I'm glad you asked! NOBO means Northbound and SOBO means Southbound. So if you start in Georgia and go towards Maine, you are NOBO. You might find this video helpful: ruclips.net/video/9CgZf19_AHU/видео.html&app=desktop
Homemade Wanderlust thank you!!! I am watching these out of order and it is so confusing to me!!! I am so impressed by your grit, tenacity, and spirit! You're inspiring!!!! Love love love from one Mountain Mama to another. 💜
Crossing as a group, either tripod or in-line is much, much safer than crossing alone because the group acts as a SINGLE body having the mass of the group, not the mass of an individual body. Look at the stationary objects in a river such as heavy rocks, downed trees, etc. They have MASS and the flowing river has little or no effect on moving heaving objects. So if you are in a group, band together and increase the collective mass.
Hi Dixie i m new in your channel, my name is Alessandra I m from Uk , I love listen to what you teach in each video. This video is important to me because I DON'T like cross river, I m afraid, but sometimes you just have to...and then I get nervous. Yes the trekking poles are good for balancing. I learned that I prefer use sandal now since I cross a river with my trekking boots, I just did not want to cross with bear feet in case I slip.
As a whitewater kayaker we always stress that if you get washed downstream keep your feet as far out of the water as you can get them. As one of my favorite guides always says, “get in the give birth position.” Foot entrapment is one of the main causes of death in rivers.
As a fly-fisherman I've spent a lot of time wading rivers. Just like to say that your advice is sound. Especially facing somewhat upstream and by all means take your time. Don't move one foot until the other foot and your poles are secure.
In the Sierra I take off my socks and then put the trail runners back on to cross the creek. A quick towel drying of the feet afterwards works and then I put shoes and socks on as normal. I tried the barefoot thing, but with snow/glacier fed creeks the feet get numb really fast. Shoes/no socks does the trick for me.
I bring an extra large compactor bag to put my pack in then I just pull it along with me so that way I can cross without having to carry that weight.
haplo12870 hmmmmm that sounds like a good idea
Another important safety thing to know if you are swept of your feet and floating down the river: do not try to stand up before you are in calmer water ! There is great risk that you step between boulders and you can get trapped with your foot between them while the force of the moving water will pull on your body. You can drown in that way in relatively shallow water...
Yep! I mention that you should wait until the water is calm before swimming to shore instead of fighting the current. It definitely would be bad to get a foot caught between rocks and drown like that. Scary! Thanks for the input.
GapahuksTube a
I fell in every river in Maine.
Hey Dixie... I just wanted to say THANKYOU and gosh am I happy I watched this before heading out on my first solo camping trip. I needed to do about 5 crossing, ranging from knee to waist deep. I think without seeing your video I wouldve had a terrible, potentially even dangerous time. But I just took it slow, used a big old branch as a stabilising stick. Thanks for sharing this invaluable knowledge, it really saved me and gave me more confidence.
Hiking staff (or poles whichever you prefer), a carabiner, and about 5 to 10 feet of paracord. Tie off the cord to your staff and hook up your pack with the carabiner. If you go down while fording just jettason the pack and keep a grip on your staff being mindful of where the line is (preferably not around your neck or limbs). This gives you a tether for your pack in the event that you should stumble.
BTW, use this at your own risk because it can be potentially dangerous if for some reason you get tangled up in the para cord.
That is good advice. It is also good to know that your pack will float. You can grab it and it will help to keep your head above the water.
An idea I just thought of. (and I've never through hiked anything yet) But I do have lots of river experience and figured, just use water socks. Like use them as your camp shoes as well but that way you have water socks when you need them. They are not that heavy if you get some inexpensive ones.
Good info, i have noticed a lot of hikers are starting to carry crocs attached to their packs.
Yes, crocs are used commonly for camp shoes. I used sandals for my camp shoes, so that's why I crossed in them. Crocs are lightweight and have the strap on the back which is nice! I just didn't want to buy something I didn't have yet, so I went with shoes I already had.
Great video Dixie . thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Thank you! :)
Good sound advice all around. I have always preferred to cross wearing my boots/trail runners for the better traction, but usually remove my socks. Just tighten up the laces a bit. Boots are wet, but socks are dry.
If you have some means of trapping air in your backpack, it can turn it into a flotation device. For example, if you have a heavy duty (contractor) bag inside your pack and you squish the mouth together and twist it and then bend it double and tie a string around it, that will help keep air trapped inside while still allowing you to open the bag without tearing it later.
Never Ever Cross a River Barefooted. There are so many stupid dumbasses that throw stuff in the water that well cut you deep. I know because I crossed a river, that was sandy bottomed at I have a 5 inch scar on the ball of my left foot under the big toe to remind me of how stupid I was. After I bled for a few, I stuck my foot in the air, laid down and got out my first aid kit, I would love to express the pain in a few choice words but lets just say I was screaming adult things to the world as I stitched it up. I now have a new respect for kangaroos. And like a true newb, I was hiking alone. I think I should change my trail name to hop-a-long.
Dixie, congratulations on the success of your channel as of late. RUclips loves you!
Wool socks will help with traction on rocky bottom most good waders have felt soles witch do the same thing ! Great video Dixie !!!!
Thank you Chris!
If you're with a group and want to fix a rope to hang on to for crossing, make the length twice as wide as the river and loop it around a tree on the side you're starting from, having a member from your group tie it off on the opposite bank. That way, the last person doesn't have to untie the rope and go without it, just cross and pull it across behind you.
Hi Dixie, Nice advise you have on that topic. I just thaught of having kinda survival Kit on your body just in case you have to ditch your pack in the River. Someting like Neckknife with firestarter, mylarblanket in Pockes, PLB, PowerBar, Phone, Torch, etc. very interesting videos like it a lot.
good information. i wouldn't have thought of unhooking my pack but it makes a lot of sense. better safe than sorry!
Thank you. Very true!
Like she says: it's all personal preference. My preference is to NEVER unbuckle my waist belt when crossing because it unstabilizes the load and makes balancing on slippery rocks and through rushing water that much more difficult. If I was to fall (and I certainly have) I can get out of that fully-buckled pack in seconds. Try both ways and see what you prefer.
Once again, really good advice. I tried rock hopping too, and wound up stepping on a loose Boulder and fell in. I realized later that crocs are invaluable for such crossings. As well as useful in camp. When I got my hiking boots wet, it took hours for them to dry out.
Thanks! Agreed! I've never owned a pair of crocs but a lot of people on the AT wore them. Thanks for posting your experience :)
Some very good points. One technique is to hike with a set of TEVA Sandles. Putting some dirty socks on will help protect your feet. TEVA's are a little heaver than the ones that you used, but your still applying the principle. If one crosses the stream with one's boots of trail runners, then here is a Special Forces tip. When many streams are to be crossed in a day or night this works well or can also be applied when just one stream is crossed. On the other side, remove your foot gear. Remove your socks and ring them out the best you can. Then dry your feet and the inside of your boots/trail runners. Remove insoles and do the same. We always had what we called a "Drive On Rag" around our neck or head, made of cotton. Usually they were old first aid OD slings. We used them to accomplish this and for many other uses. Apply foot powder to your feet, put your damp socks back on and then foot wear. Finish the hike and then remove socks and boots, dry them out and either hang out your socks and air your boots, or if raining, sleep with the socks next to your body to help dry them overnight. My cousin Jim Murry used the "next to body drying technique in Europe in the winter of WW-2 in the ETO. Today few hikers have the good old canva and leather Vietnam War Jungle boots. They were the only US Army 9 inch boots that I ever liked except for the artic boots. I like ankle boots with gaiters or puttees better. However the jungle boots had vents that the water would run out of the boots, and in hot humid climate one could truck on until evening and RON "Rest Over Night" position, and then apply the above. I really like your idea of sending a strong group member over first with a line to help the others cross. You have a lot of good experience for sure.
Thank you!! I am looking to do the JMT next summer, and this is something I'm a little nervous about because I'll be by myself. Actually I'm pretty scared about quite a few things haha, but your videos are really inspiring and helpful :)
Hey Rachel, thank you! I'm glad they are helping you warm up to the idea of being alone. It's weird at first, but I bet you're gonna love it and the experience will be a huge confidence booster. You've got this!
thanks!! :)
I'm a canoer and sometimes when the water on a river has been calm and beautiful and high for a while and then you start to hear the water... and it would always be the next dam or some other white water. Totally understand the getting nervous part :D Keep up the awesome vids.
If you end up going on an unplanned trip down the river you should
1. keep your feet pointing down river and up at the surface so that they do not get caught in rocks
2. you will most likely have a pack liner or stuff sacks in your backpack and these should at least for a little while keep your pack buoyant. If you can you should bear hug it to help you stay on the surface
If you loose your pack though it will most likely eddy out not too far downstream so it would be a good idea to hike along the stream and try and find it.
Crossing rivers is probably the most dangerous activity most walkers will experience. As a Mountain Leader, we were always taught that river crossings should only be undertaken as a last resort. Considering how dangerous crossing a river is, why doesn't Maine construct some lightweight wire traverse bridges over the streams/rivers like they have in New Zealand?
Because it's a chalange.
EasyCookVideos no clue. I also ask why they don't put more/better stairs in the Whites. You can't say the people maintaining the trail don't care about safety, but certain areas kind of make you scratch your head because they really aren't safe.
Pre 911, the SAS lost more people in water crossings than in combat. Since 911, their casualty figures are harder to come by.
love your videos! hope to see you on the trail one day!
Thank you! That would be great :)
Great video as always! You are a great resource for information, greatly appreciated!
Thank you so much!
I did a ford of the Kennebec River in November in Maine years ago when there was not a ferry available---my advice: use the river ferry!
In picking a spot to cross have a look at what's downstream in case you should lose your footing. Any dangerous rapids or overhanging trees that you might get caught in? Shoes or no shoes? Depends on what you're walking on. If it's rocks that might be covered with slippery moss or of just the right size to jam your feet between, i'd prefer to wear boots or shoes.
Great info, Dixie! Thank you!
Dear Dixie:
It would be a good idea if you start making videos about you planning and preparations for the CDT. For example:
1. What will be your resupply strategy?
2. Is there a guide to the trail? It is not well marked, right? How are you going to navigate it? Do you need a map and compass?
3. Are you going “solo” or with your friend Perk?
5.What are the challenges of that particular trail in comparison with the AT and PCT?
Good luck,
Julio
What about using a light pair of water shoes to cross streams ( and for camp shoes)?
Another great video packed with great advice! Thanks!
Thank you!
I was hiking the jmt and started out always wearing sandals but after like 3 or 4 crossing back to back I just went through with my trail-runners and that's what all the pct hikers did
Cohutta wilderness in Georgia has a lot of different types of water crossings if that’s your thing.
Have you learned NOTHING from Ghostbusters???? You NEVER cross the Streams!!!.
And if someone ask you if you're a god you say YES!!!!!
My biggest fears with fording was losing my flip flops. I've been thinking about using a carabiner and some shock cord to make a heel loop, nothing sturdy or anything. The first time I went skydiving the scariest moment was when I stuck my foot out to step on the ledge and my shoe almost flew off!
I've yet to hike the AT, so I don't know what river/creek/stream conditions are like; but in my experience, calm, slower water usually means deeper too. If you attempt to cross a section of deeper water any distance from rapids, be aware that you may have to hold your pack above your head. You'll have to weigh your wetness ratio against your fear of slipping and getting cut up.
I find that finding a large sturdy (dead) branch, that reaches over your shoulders, can help. It must be strong enough to lean into. Also when in doubt, go in with shoes if you have nothing else.
What if you cross in trail runners but take your insoles out and take your socks off then put them back on when you finish? Will that help at all?
Another great video, thank you. How goes the planning for the PCT? Any sneak peak videos on that adventure?
I am still in the planning stages. Honestly, I didn't buy my first piece of gear for the AT until February and I started at the end of March. I will definitely make some videos about the planning, though!
I've done a swift water awareness course as part of my training with out state emergency service ( NSW State Emergency Service, in Australia), and what Dixie has said is very true. Brace yourself with your hiking poles or a heavy stick, lean into the flow, and if you do get washed away, ditch your pack, and float on your back feet first. If you get to deep water, look for an eddy and use it to take you to the shore.
if your floating down river, dont forget to keep your feet up! That's very important as they can get caught in rocks causing you to drown. Not an expert, just something I've heard.. :)
Also, feet downstream. You have a chance to fend of any boulders with your feet. Better than hitting them with most other parts of your body!
thanks for your great videos!
Thank you!
Since I have never went NoBo, I am not certain, but I think that the rivers in Maine would be more aggressive in the spring (for the SoBo) with all of the fresh winter snowmelt. Just somethin' to think about. Any words of wisdom on this for someone who is trying to decide which direction to hike?
So what if you don't know how to swim? LOL Yep, I'm 46 and never learned. Are the rivers and streams flowing fast enough that it can take you down? And would you say that the trekking poles make it easier to stay upright in a faster stream?
Trekking poles definitely helped me cross a bunch of rivers. Highly recommend!
Should I bring the AT guide book on the trail
Tanner Lotito 331 good question; I have heard people say be sure to have the official AT maps; and I watch a girl on youtube (forget the name) who took the guide (or at least the pages for the trail) and threw them away as she finished the sections; or maybe she used them as toilet paper? idk 😂 I’ll see if I can find her name now and come back and post it; I only saw her video where she said she only had a few pages left; imo it’s kind of a cool way to mark the journey 👍🏼 but I bet it adds a lot of weight
Tanner Lotito 331 haha I watch too many AT videos to find it in my history
Great video Dixie! Could you talk about climbing up and down the mountains with steep incline? Was it nerve racking? Was it intimidating?
Maybe that's something I can cover in the future. I think at some point you just get something in your mind and you decide you're going to do it...and nothing will stop you. It's all about getting the right mindset. Then all the rock walls or rivers can't keep you from reaching your goal.
That's so true! Thank you for replying Dixie! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!
Just a point worth looking into regarding ropes: They can sometimes be more dangerous than no rope. Clipping onto a rope especially has led to drownings. After reading about it I would make sure to learn proper technique before using rope.
Ok, I've been schooled on crossing a river...... Now how about that blooper real, nobody does it perfect every time. LOL.
Hey DIXIE you doing any threw hikes this year
+++++ Another great video! You explained some basic fluid dynamics very clearly. When you make it into a quiet, slower, shallower area, you pack should be nearby, especially if stuff sacks and waterproof bags grant positive buoyancy. Now, the otters, trout, and sea lions, as opposed to raccoons, mice, and bears, might be nibbling their way in for the delicious chocolate bars, buts thats a different story!
Thanks, Chris! Yeah, critters are always trying to get your food on the trail. ALWAYS.
which is worse, blisters that can be covered with moleskin, or stepping on sharp objects, stubbing your toe, slipping and possibly causing head injury or worse? I always wear shoes in the rivers and creeks. Maybe keep an old pair of shoes just for that use.
I just linked to Amazon from your link to make a purchase!!!.. I hope that helps you on your adventures!!!
I buy stuff all the time.. I may link thru your site for everything!!
WOOT
Again, great video, comprehensive, nicely edited. And of utmost importance, CDT, PCT, and as you inform us, Dixie, AT in Maine. I would recommend attending a field workshop on this one. We can listen and read (www.backpacker.com/survival/how-to-ford-a-river/) but nothing beats practice. Cold, high water, one slip, over.
Thank you and I agree!
Did you (or anyone you know) have any Bigfoot experiences/sightings on the trail?
There are definitely some noises I heard that left me wondering what it was, but I didn't see anything that resembled bigfoot. One of the guys I hiked around for a bit though is convinced that someday he will find bigfoot.
i'm never mentally prepared for anything
but failure is never an option
keep calm carry on
A pair of amphibious strapped sandals would be ideal for water crossing.
Hi Dixie! I've been watching your videos a lot but this is my first comment. Sorry if this is obvious, but what is a Nobo?
Heidi in WV.
I'm glad you asked! NOBO means Northbound and SOBO means Southbound. So if you start in Georgia and go towards Maine, you are NOBO. You might find this video helpful:
ruclips.net/video/9CgZf19_AHU/видео.html&app=desktop
Homemade Wanderlust thank you!!! I am watching these out of order and it is so confusing to me!!! I am so impressed by your grit, tenacity, and spirit! You're inspiring!!!! Love love love from one Mountain Mama to another. 💜
Crossing as a group, either tripod or in-line is much, much safer than crossing alone because the group acts as a SINGLE body having the mass of the group, not the mass of an individual body. Look at the stationary objects in a river such as heavy rocks, downed trees, etc. They have MASS and the flowing river has little or no effect on moving heaving objects. So if you are in a group, band together and increase the collective mass.
Hi Dixie i m new in your channel, my name is Alessandra I m from Uk , I love listen to what you teach in each video. This video is important to me because I DON'T like cross river, I m afraid, but sometimes you just have to...and then I get nervous. Yes the trekking poles are good for balancing. I learned that I prefer use sandal now since I cross a river with my trekking boots, I just did not want to cross with bear feet in case I slip.
The British S.A.S. has lost more people in water crossings than in combat. At least, pre 911. Cut me some slack, I'm an old guy!
“Hypothermia anybodeeeer?” You’re so cute!
Socks off, shoes on.
Crocks. Hideously ugly but light and grippy...kind of like me.
lol thumbs up for honesty and a chuckle.
Oops, no "k" in crocs.
HAHAHA.
“Hypothermia anybodeeeer?” You’re so cute!