For many years I have been hiking Rabbit Island in early March from McArthur Island.    Sometimes there is some ice to cross and there is a cold water river channel to cross.    The narrowest part of the channel is about 11m across and the moving water comes just above the knee.    I use a dry suit and boots, then I change on the island shore for a dry hike around the perimeter of the island, before crossing back.    This is a favorite hike: