Calculators / Trail safety

Water-crossing checklist

A conservative screening tool for depth, flow and the crossing surface—not a “safe to cross” verdict.

Stop and assess

If you cannot verify the crossing, turn around.

Never rely on the number alone. Check current, hidden holes, entry and exit, downstream hazards, recent rain and whether the depth rating has conditions. Water ingestion can destroy an engine; moving water can displace a vehicle.

Do not drive or walk into floodwater. A depth calculation cannot establish crossing safety. DFES: Flood overview.