Big Bend National Park/Switch from GMNP

I missed the last Big Bend National Park trip so I have decided to shift the GMNP trip to Big Bend.

We are limited to FIVE people on the back country permit so please only sign-up if you are planning on going.

This is a relatively easy trip although you will be hiking up some pretty step trails in the Chisos Mountains with full packs and lots of water. There is no reliable water in the Chisos Mountains. You will need to carry 3-4 liters of water for the first leg of the hike. Please be prepared for cold weather although it is just as likely that we will have warm weather.

1. Thursday, drive to BBNP and meet at Panther Junction Visitor Center to pick up our permit. We will then drive up to the Chisos Basin. We will then hike to our site in the Chisos. Please ensure you leave the San Antonio area no later than 0530 AM.
2. Friday, finish the Chisos Loop hike with an optional side trip to Emory Peak. This is a scramble, not a walk-up. We will come down from the Chisos to the Basin and fill up on water and perhaps lunch at the food truck in the Basin before heading out to the Chimneys for zone camping on the high desert.
3. On Saturday we will visit Castolon Historic District to fill-up on water and perhaps day hiking Santa Elena Canyon before heading out the Mule Ears for more zone camping on the high desert.
4. Sunday, hike out and drive home. Please bring a towel, soap and a change of clothing in case we do hit the showers. We have the option of showers in Alpine or at the Love's in Ft. Stockton.

We can work out the potential for carpooling once we get a little closer to the trip dates. If you plan on carpooling please bring cash to pay your share of the gasoline costs.

We will share the costs of the back country permit. Everyone is responsible for paying their own entry fees.

Everyone must sign a liability waiver for this trip; waivers will be sent out under separate cover. Sorry, but if you do not sign a waiver you cannot participate in the trip. If you have any questions please contact me.