The trip will depart for Big Bend on Saturday, November 21, arriving late Saturday evening to camp overnight at the Stillwell Store Campground on FM 2627 in Brewster County. We will get shuttles from Stillwell Store to drive paddlers, boats and gear to Heath Canyon Ranch at the Gerstacker Bridge (now closed to all traffic) between Texas and La Linda, Mexico, where we will launch on Sunday morning.

We will paddle for three days, camping along the river, before stopping for a layover day at San Rocendo Canyon (Mexico) from Tuesday evening until Thursday morning, then paddle for another four days to John's Marina at Dryden Pass, where our vehicles will be waiting. At the end of the trip those who need to get back home for work on Monday, or other commitments, can depart immediately upon packing their vehicles. Others who wish to return on Monday (or later) can return to Stillwell Store or into Big Bend National Park (provided camping space is available) and camp overnight.

This is a rugged, wilderness expedition trip. Requirements for participation are as follows:

The drive from Dallas is about 11-12 hours, and from San Antonio it is probably about 9-10 hours. We will have a mandatory pre-trip meeting to reiterate some basic considerations on the night before the trip. Let's plan on meeting at Stillwell Store no later than 6 PM so that we can set up camp and have a meeting before turning in for the night. There are limited supplies, including ice and gasoline at Stillwell Store, and it is the last opportunity for a shower and flush toilet before the trip ends.

Gear Requirements:

Bring boats rated for up to Class IV whitewater, PFD's (lifejackets), paddles (a spare is recommended), a whistle or other signalling device, throwbag, tent, ground pad, sleeping bag, clothing for hot, cold, wet and dry conditions, camp chair, headlamp, plate(s), flatware, drinking cup, personal toiletries and other items that you may want to have with you. A small cooler for drinks and lunches would be recommended. Members of the group should coordinate on community gear such as cookware, stoves, fuel, charcoal and other such items.

Meals:

Bring your own meals. We will have a Thanksgiving dinner for the entire group on Wednesday night at Hot Springs (San Rocendo Canyon), and the cost of that meal will be included in the shared expenses. Those opting into the dinner plan will share all dinners on the river, but everybody should bring their own breakfasts, lunches, beverages and snacks, but remember - NO GLASS OR FOAM POLYSTYRENE STYROFOAM CONTAINERS!

Driving Directions:

Stillwell Store is located in Brewster County on FM 2627, about 7 miles after turning left off US Highway 385.

Class II: Novice. Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting. Occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers. Swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed.

Class III: Intermediate. Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and which can swamp an open canoe. Complex maneuvers in fast current and good boat control in tight passages or around ledges are often required; large waves or strainers may be present but are easily avoided. Strong eddies and powerful current effects can be found, particularly on large-volume rivers. Scouting is advisable for inexperienced parties. Injuries while swimming are rare; self-rescue is usually easy but group assistance may be required to avoid long swims.

Class IV: Advanced. Intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat handling in turbulent water. Depending on the character of the river, it may feature large, unavoidable waves and holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under pressure. A fast, reliable eddy turn may be needed to initiate maneuvers, scout rapids, or rest. Rapids may require "must" moves above dangerous hazards. Scouting is necessary the first time down. Risk of injury to swimmers is moderate to high, and water conditions may make self-rescue difficult. Group assistance for rescue is often essential but requires practiced skills. A strong eskimo roll is highly recommended.

Class V: Expert. Extremely long, obstructed, or very violent rapids which expose a paddler to above average endangerment. Drops may contain large, unavoidable waves and holes or steep, congested chutes with complex, demanding routes. Rapids may continue for long distances between pools, demanding a high level of fitness. What eddies exist may be small, turbulent, or difficult to reach. At the high end of the scale, several of these factors may be combined. Scouting is mandatory but often difficult. Swims are dangerous, and rescue is difficult even for experts. A very reliable eskimo roll, proper equipment, extensive experience, and practiced rescue skills are essential for survival.

Class VI: Extreme. One grade more difficult than Class V. These runs often exemplify the extremes of difficulty, unpredictability and danger. The consequences of errors are very severe and rescue may be impossible. For teams of experts only, at favorable water levels, after close personal inspection and taking all precautions. This class does not represent drops thought to be unrunnable, but may include rapids which are only occasionally run.