by Carl H. Deal with Diana Finlay Hendricks
Big Bend is almost always a long way from home, and planning a trip to the Desert requires a plan with common sense and forethought.
1) Bring Your Own Water: If you bring single serve plastic bottles, be prepared to hike them back home. Bringing large water jugs and a refillable thermos keeps some of these things from staying in the park forever.
2) Drink Plenty of Water: Heat injuries and dehydration are the most common rescues in the park. The park’s atmosphere is low in humidity and can be several thousand feet in altitude. In arid conditions, humans can lose up to 1.5 liters of water in a day, just from breathing.
3) Dress Accordingly: Pay attention to the Weather forecast for the park regardless of the season. The park gets snow and can be bitterly cold, and—in summer months—wear what can keep you cool and protect yourself from the sun.
4) Transportation: If you plan to drive on the many four-wheel drive roads in the park, check your spare tire before you go—know how to change your tire and have the tools you need.
5) Communication: There is limited cellular service in the park. Remote locations often have no phone service to render help in an emergency. If you are a wilderness camper, a satellite phone is a good idea.
6) Garbage: Haul it in and haul it out. The park has been throwing everyone’s trash away since 1944—and there is no more room. Make returning your trash to your own disposal system back home a part of your plan.
7) Hiking in Heat: Summer temperatures long the river can be 120° in the afternoon. A general rule of thumb: on the trail at 5 a.m. and off the trail by 11 a.m. The Desert can sneak up on you.
8) Wildlife: There are bears, lions, hogs, venomous snakes, and a handful of other surprises. Pay attention, be smart, keep your distance, and read the warnings on park signs and pamphlets. Dangerous encounters with wild animals are rare.
Education Videos prepared by the Big Bend Conservancy are available online and on the Park Service website:
Preparing for Your Trip to Big Bend National Park
Experience Big Bend National Park Safely
Top Things to Do at Big Bend National Park