There are three top safety rules when hiking:
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Up is optional– down is mandatory.
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The early bird may get the worm, but the early hiker most definitely gets the spider web.
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If you come across an angry bear while hiking with a friend, ask for one of their shoes; you can’t outrun a bear, but you can outrun a friend if they are missing a shoe.
Additionally, trails are rife with river crossings:
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If possible, stay dry while crossing.
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Keep a stick slightly higher than the waistline. I don’t hike with poles because I tend to find that I want at least one hand free at all times. I typically hike with what my friends have dubbed my ‘Jesus stick,’ which makes crossings much easier and safer.
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When in doubt, I won’t cross at all. Safety comes first.
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Pick trails that have safer water crossings or no water crossings if it has rained recently or there’s recent snow melt. Especially here in the valley, snow drips down from the mountains, and builds up in our rivers.
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Carry socks. If you do fall in a river, you’ll want a change of attire.
These rivers tend to drain out oddly, resulting in muddy patches.
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Walk right through it– walking around mud typically makes trails wider, something that is preferable to avoid.
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Look for rocks to hop across. When rocks aren’t available, sticks and logs are a good secondary option. That said, all three precautionary items have the tendency to roll and be slippery, thus the need for adequate footwear.
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I’ve been known to sometimes place sticks in muddy areas to (a) help future hikers stay dry, and (b) limit trail damage. It’s okay to do this if you must.