How to Cross-Arm Rappel

People who rappel backwards, down a mountain, look so professional. They bounce off of the side of the hill, holding a rope, and sliding down a few feet with each bounce. Some people who love the outdoors - or even someone who has been stranded - might not know how to rappel, or could be afraid to try. Still, there might come a time where there is no choice. The only way out is down, and you'll have to climb down while holding a rope. Don't worry; you can do it! If you're afraid to go down backwards, or something prevents you from doing so, you'll be happy to know that there is yet another way to rappel. When all you have is a rope and a hill, you can descend by doing what's called a cross-arm rappel. You don't need any special tools; just tie off your rope and you're ready to go.

The most important part of rappelling - no matter how you're going to do it - is the part of tying off the rope. It's important that you find a strong tree to use for tying the rope. After tying off the rope, and throwing it over the cliff, you're all set to rappel.

To do the cross-arm rappel, all you have to do is stand close to the edge of the cliff, with your back to the rope. Lift the rope up so that it's behind you, and across the center of your back. Take your right arm up and over the rope so that it's then dangling behind the rope. Bring your arm back up and that will position the rope across the top of your arm, near the wrist. Then, bring your hand up and grab the rope. Do the same thing to wrap the rope around the opposite arm. So, put your arm behind the rope then reach up and grab it.

As you descend, simply feed the rope through your hands, and walk down sideways - right side first or left side first. Should you slip at all, just grip the rope to steady yourself. Walk slowly, sideways, straight down a hill with any terrain. At any time, if you slip or stumble, the ropes are wrapped around your arms, and you won't fall.

Rappelling is generally done in a very different manner but it takes equipment that you might not have. Whether you've gotten stranded, gotten lost, or encountered another outdoor problem, if you have a rope with you, you'll make it to your destination.