Many visits to the Sierra Nevada are as a member of a group that is conducting a trip. Often members of the group have little or no experience in the outdoors.

If you or your child is part of such a group, here are some questions you should ask prior to setting out:

1. Are the group leaders experienced? What kinds of outdoor experience and group leadership training have they had? Do they have the knowledge and gear necessary, including a first aid kit? Are there enough leaders for the size of the group? Will they turn back if the situation changes? What are your emergency plans?
2. Will the hike be paced to the slowest hiker? You should start as a group, hike as a group, end as a group.
3. Are all members of the group required to bring at least a minimum of gear, including warm clothing, appropriate footwear, extra food and water, a whistle, rain gear, and a flashlight?
4. Are group members, especially those who are inexperienced, told what to do if they become separated from the group or there is an emergency?
5. Are the leaders aware of any medical conditions of each group member?

GROUP SIZE
Keeping your group size small is recommended everywhere. Group size limits are in effect in most designated wilderness areas. Check with the managing agency for details.

PERMITS
For day trips, permits are not generally required. One exception to this is the trail to Mt. Whitney.

For overnight trips inside designated wilderness areas in the Sierra Nevada a Wilderness Permit is generally required. Trailhead quotas are in effect for many popular destinations. Other requirements may be in effect. You can find information for Sierra Nevada areas at the management agency websites listed here.

Overnight trips in areas outside designated wilderness generally require a California Campfire Permit.

The above applies to most groups such as Scout troups, school and church groups, and other groups led by volunteers.

However, if your group is a commercial venture, such as a camp or college or guide service, you will need an Outfitter Guide Permit for trips in National Forest or National Park areas. Information for Sierra Nevada areas is available at the management agency websites listed here.

BACKCOUNTRY CAMPSITES
Campsites in the Sierra Nevada backcountry are generally first-come, first-served - no reservations. Over crowding is controlled by trailhead quotas that limit the number of people entering an area each day. In general you can camp anywhere you wish, preferabbly using existing campsites, however, in some heavy use areas you must camp at designated campsites. Rules vary in different parts of the Sierra Nevada so you should check on the appropriate management agency websites listed here.

The management agencies often have trip planning materials available. A large number of guide books are available from book stores, Ranger Stations and Visitor Centers to help you plan your trip.