Bringing over 25 people to the park

Big Bend is a popular place for individuals as well as some large groups. All visitors are welcome. Sometimes though, large groups have caused problems because the groups were not aware of park policies. This has resulted in other visitors having their Big Bend experience negatively impacted. In addition, rangers have had to respond to emergencies where someone was pushed beyond their ability by others (for example, peer pressure to hike a long steep trail, or pressure to ignore health warning signs, such as complaints of dizzyness on a hot day). These are situations that can be prevented by better planning and group control.

The park requires the following from leaders of large groups:

● Stop at the Panther Junction visitor center for a group orientation to the park.

● Groups with kids under 18 should have one chaperone for every 5 children.

● Groups of 50 or more should break hiking parties into at least 2 groups with a 15 minute staggered departure time.

● Know each individual in your group and their ability level. Have you matched your activity list with their abilities? Do they really know what they are getting into? Do you?

● When deciding on your group's activities, please consider the physical ability of individuals in your group. The rule of thumb to follow is that the least able individual determines the group's pace and distance of hike. If the fastest person or the group's average speed determines the pace, health-related accidents happen when slower individuals are pushed beyond their ability. An inflexible activity plan made up of challenging activities at the expense of someone's health is not a good policy. Know when it is time to turn back, even if the destination on your hike hasn't been reached.

● One of the reason people come here is to find peace and quiet. It is expected of group leaders, especially groups of children, that they not make a lot of noise.

● One of the reasons people get hurt here is a lack of proper supplies. Is each member of your group properly equipped? Most people are not conditioned to the severity of this environment and find themselves in harms way before they realize it. The desert air and heat will suck water out of you fast, and you need to replace what you lose in sweat by consuming fluids and salty snacks. The sun is unforgiving here, as is the rocky terrain. Hats, sunscreen, and good footwear are essentials. Winter weather can change fast too and groups should be prepared with equipment essential to handling temperature drops such as warm clothing.

---

Big Bend gives all groups the benefit of the doubt, but privileges can be revoked for organizations that don't adhere to the guidelines above.