Campcraft
Choose outdoor drinking-water treatment for the hazard, not just clear water
Clear stream water can still contain hazards. Match an outdoor treatment method to microbes and local contamination risks, and protect the clean-water side.
HIKING · CAMPING · OUTDOOR LIFE
hiking preparation
Walking Equipment
Walking gaiters keep debris out; they do not make a river crossing safe
Use gaiters for the debris and splash protection they are designed for, while planning wet routes and water crossings as separate decisions.
Trail Decisions
Check a trail bridge’s condition before committing to the crossing
Assess a trail bridge from a safe position, follow closures and turn back when its condition or the water below makes the crossing uncertain.