River Crossing

A Quick Guide

A GUIDE TO CROSSING RIVERS IN THE WILDERNESS

Hiking in the Philippines is an adventure that attracts many outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. With its lush forests, rugged mountains, and pristine rivers, it's no surprise that many people flock to the country to explore its natural beauty. However, one aspect of hiking in the Philippines that can be particularly challenging is river crossings. While these crossings can be a fun and exciting part of any hike, they also come with significant hazards that should not be taken lightly.

HAZARDS

Strong Currents

The rivers in the Philippines can have very strong currents, particularly during the rainy season. Even a seemingly shallow stream can sweep you off your feet and carry you downstream.

Slippery Rocks

The rocks in rivers can be incredibly slippery, especially when they are covered in moss or algae. This can make it challenging to maintain your balance and footing while crossing.

Underwater Obstacles

Underwater obstacles can be hard to see when the water is murky. These may include submerged logs or rocks, deep holes, or sudden drop-offs.

Flashfloods

Flash floods are a significant hazard when crossing rivers in the Philippines, particularly during the rainy season. A sudden surge of water can come down from the mountains and turn a peaceful stream into a raging torrent in a matter of minutes.

Waterborne Illnesses

The water in Philippine rivers can be contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites, particularly in areas with human or animal waste nearby. Exposure to these contaminants can cause a variety of illnesses, from minor infections to life-threatening diseases.

WILL YOU CROSS THE RIVER?

When a river has any of those hazards, what will you do?

THE OPTIONS

  • 1. Wait It Out

    If you feel that the river is too dangerous for you to cross, it's often best to wait for the water level to subside, regardless of what your local guide or companion tells you. Streams rise and drop quickly so it may be worth the wait.

  • 2. Look For An Alternate Route

    If waiting it out is not an option, consider looking for an alternate route that will take you around the river. This could mean taking a detour or a different trail. Ask your local guide or look at your map to find better routes.

  • 3. Look For A Bridge

    A bridge is the safest and most straightforward option for crossing a river. However, not all hiking trails in the Philippines have bridges, particularly in more remote areas. Ask your local guide or look at your map to check if there is a bridge nearby.

  • 4. Turn Back

    If you're unsure about the river's condition and don't feel confident in crossing, it's always best to turn back and try again another day, regardless of what your local guide or companion tells you. Your safety is the top priority, and it's never worth risking your life to reach your destination.

Sometimes the wisest choice is to wait it out or turn back, as the river's raging current reminds us that patience is key when safety is on the line.

IF YOU REALLY NEED TO CROSS...

Crossing where such hazards exist is a serious decision. The risks will almost certainly be too great, and alternatives will always be safer. Consider the options mentioned above if the water is murky, fast moving and above your waistline. However, if the water is slow moving and below your waistline, you may use the  techniques below

  • Use A Stick or A Trekking Pole

    Using a trekking pole or stick can provide extra support and stability while crossing. Use it to probe the riverbed for any hidden obstacles or to steady yourself in the current.

  • Face Upstream

    Always face upstream while crossing a river. This will help you maintain balance and give you a better view of any potential hazards downstream.

  • Take Small Steps

    Take small, deliberate steps while crossing the river. Avoid taking long strides or jumping, which can throw you off balance.

  • Maintain A Low Center Of Gravity

    Keep your center of gravity low by bending your knees and leaning slightly forward. This will help you maintain balance and prevent being swept off your feet by the current.

  • Link Arms With Others

    If you're crossing with a group, link arms with the people beside you. This will provide extra stability and help prevent anyone from being swept away by the current.

  • Shuffle Your Feet

    Shuffle your feet along the riverbed rather than lifting them off the ground. This will help you maintain contact with the riverbed and prevent being swept away by the current.

  • Look For Stable Footing

    Look for stable footing, such as rocks or sand, while crossing. Avoid areas with unstable footing, such as slippery rocks or deep holes.

  • Mind The Water Level

    Keep an eye on the water level and be prepared to turn back if it rises fast above your waist. It's better to wait for the water level to subside than to risk being swept away by the current.

In the face of an unpredictable river, there is strength in numbers as we band together, crossing as one to overcome the challenge and reach the other side.

Attempting to cross a raging river may result in the loss of dignity, cellphone, and possibly your life. The water is angry and it's not afraid to show it. Cross at your own risk, but don't say we didn't warn you!

MORE TIPS AND ADVISE

SEEK GUIDANCE FROM THE LOCALS

If you are uncertain about crossing a river, it may be best to hire a local guide who is familiar with the area and can assist you in crossing safely. A guide can help you assess the strength of the current, find the best crossing point, and provide additional support if needed. Local guides or community members may have more experience with the river's condition and can provide valuable insights and support to help you cross safely.

"YOU CANNOT CROSS THE SAME RIVER TWICE"

"You cannot cross the same river twice" means that everything is constantly changing. Even if you were to cross the same river multiple times, it would never be the same experience twice. The water level, the rocks, and even the currents could all be different. A hazard that did not exist before may exist the next time you cross.

PRECAUTION ON USING ROPES

Using a rope in a river requires not just proper technique, but also experience and familiarity with the river. It's important to seek guidance from local guides or community members if you're not familiar with the river. A rope can be dangerous if not used correctly, and it doesn't protect you from other hazards such as strong currents or debris. It's crucial to be aware of these hazards and take appropriate precautions to avoid them. Even with the necessary skills, many unpredictable factors could go wrong while using a rope in a river crossing.

"The use of a rope should only be considered as a last resort, because it can provide a very effective way of drowning someone if used inappropriately. Research into methods of dealing with safety in swift moving water has demonstrated that the security offered by a rope is often illusory."

BRITISH MOUNTAINEERING COUNCIL

Before attempting to cross a raging river, pause and think thrice, for a few moments of caution can save a lifetime of regret.

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