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My recent scare with high water on the Colorado Trail
On a hike this month, I faced a creek on the Colorado Trail that was much higher than expected. The current was strong and crossing seemed too risky. I had used an old guidebook for my plan. To fix this, I turned back and met other hikers. These hikers showed me a safer spot upstream. Now I always check recent trail reports online. What steps do you take for water crossings?
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the_elizabeth1mo ago
How deep was that creek when you decided to turn back? I got spooked once and just waited until early morning when the flow was lower, and always use my poles for balance now.
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the_henry1mo ago
Turning back over a little water seems too careful in my view. I've crossed deeper creeks without poles and been fine. Morning waits just eat into hiking time.
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the_seth1mo ago
Scouting upstream is a game changer. In my experience, it often shows safer spots. Always take your time and check the current.
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