A group of about 80 or 90 people seems like way too many to be in one party in a wilderness area.
May be to many, depends on the trail and how you space them in small groups. That many in one group, too many. As to dangerous, hikers spooking horses are in danger, and placing the rider in danger. But that’s not what she was thinking.
Bingo!
You go backpacking/hiking to get away from loud mouthed city jerks! 90 city jerks on one trail? Really? IDIOTS!
80+ people on a nature walk is a lot of people. Even a group of ten to twenty would be a large group hiking together. I’m curious if there are any permitting requirements for group walks? It would allow the rangers to know who is in the park and answer any inquiries as to who the group is, as well as limit the size of the group, in order to retain the natural environment. Permitting would also limit group size and address park rules with the organizer of the event. It’s wonderful so many people want to engage with nature by hiking, yet trails can be damaged by overused, which can also make the trails unsafe with loose rocks and bare roots to trip on. Also,I can’t remember if the article said this was her business, if so definitely permitting should be necessary because of liability in case of injury to her participants.