Always conduct your own research and use your best judgment.Caila Ball-Dionne is a freelance writer and full-time travel enthusiast. It is not until a person tries to step through it that this ground liquefies under his or her feet.Contrary to what you may have seen in movies, quicksand is not actually often found in the desert.

Quicksand forms when wet sand is suddenly dislodged. To create this article, 106 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time.

Then, bend your body backward so you're lying on your back on top of the quicksand, and carefully work your legs out of the quicksand until they're no longer stuck. Not quite. Next, use your arms to propel yourself to the edge of the quicksand like you would if you were swimming. Quicksand can occur anywhere in the world, as long as the conditions are right. Yes. Small pools will sometimes form as the tide moves in and out, fed by underground springs or runoff water. Finally, once you reach the edge, roll your body onto solid ground. Sho… This quicksand then re-solidifies, trapping whatever may have sunk into its depths.Unlike typical mud, quicksand can appear solid upon first glance. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please We use cookies to make wikiHow great.


Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube.If you hike with someone else in an area where you're likely to encounter quicksand, bring along at least 20 feet (6.1 m) of rope.

By using our site, you agree to our Learn what to do—and what not to do—to get out of quicksand.Though it's not quite as deadly as it appears in movies, quicksand can still throw an unsuspecting hiker for a loop. Telltale signs are bubbling, murky sand at the bottom of a tide pool with clear water above. Drop everything. Yes, use anything stable to sit/push on. If you struggle, you are acting against high viscosity, and possibly a vacuum as you try to pull your legs out of the quicksand, but if you can relax and lie back you will float to the surface and be able to paddle your … Awareness is key!If you can’t avoid it, you have to escape it. Flowing water underground agitates the sand, which can create quicksand. [1] X Research source If it's possible to get out of your shoes, do so. Eliminate excess weight: Throw your backpack to the side, and take off your shoes, if possible. To get out of quicksand, start by taking a few deep breaths to calm down since panicking will make you sink faster. I’ve never seen quicksand in the field, but from its reputation I assume you might not know know it’s there until you’re standing in it. The key is to slowly wiggle your legs to try to get water to trickle … So quicksand is generally located near riverbanks, marshes, and beaches. If you find yourself sinking, fear not! The … While quicksand isn't nearly as dangerous as it looks in the movies, it is a real phenomenon. You can find more of her writing at Get exclusive offers, packing tips and inspiration! If you do find yourself in quicksand and sinking, it's important to not panic and not move around intensely. Why? Here's what to do if you find yourself with that sinking feeling.