Nearly all stream crossings in popular wilderness areas are bridged these days, but it's still useful to know how to cross a stream that isn't. The first tactic is to look for a natural bridge: a fallen log. Depending on the ruggedness of the terrain and the difficulty of fording, it may be worth searching upstream and downstream for a quarter of a mile to try to find a suitable log. Don't feel compelled to emulate the Flying Wallendas by walking across the log if it's too narrow or too high for comfort. There's no shame in straddling the log and working your way across inch-by-inch.

If the search for a log proves futile, conquer the natural inclination to cross at the narrowest point in hopes of spending as little time as possible in the stream. Narrow means deep, and deep means a good chance you'll be swept off your feet if the current is strong and the water comes up over your knees. Instead, look for a wide spot in the stream where the water is as shallow as possible. Don't cross right above a waterfall or rapid. Loosen your shoulder straps, undo your sternum strap and loosen or completely unhook your hip belt so you can shed your pack in a hurry if you do get swept off your feet. Focusing your eyes on the far bank rather than the rushing water will help you keep your balance. If the terrain permits, diagonal downstream as you cross rather than crossing along a line directly perpendicular to the banks. You'll waste less strength fighting the current. Make sure each foot is firmly planted before moving the next. Sometimes it's best to shuffle your feet without crossing your legs. It can also be helpful for two people to link hands to help support each other. Unless the water is clear and the bottom is uniformly sandy, it's best to wear your boots while fording to protect your feet. Wear your boots without your socks while crossing, then put your socks back on before you resume hiking. After the socks have absorbed some of the moisture from the boots, exchange them for dry ones and hang the damp ones off the back of your pack to air-dry. This procedure will help your boots dry as fast as possible and reduce the chance of blisters. It's easy for the inexperienced hiker to underestimate the difficulty of fording a stream. When in doubt, turn back.

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