Is spring break really the worst possible time to come

[otter]

As I've posted already I am a teacher and so I'm unfortunately on vacation with the masses.  I'm off Thanksgiving week, Christmas 2 wks. Spring break a week, and summer 2 mos. Of all these times are any less crowded, and still bearable weather wise?  I've got reservations at the Chisos Mining Co.And I'm looking forward to the trip. Will I really regret coming spring break? I'm coming mostly to take in the amazing beauty of the region, short hikes and lots of pictures, but the thought of swimming thru people to do it gives me the heebie jeebies.

[jr ranger]

Well it's certainly not GrCA or Yellowstone crowded (at their seasonal peaks), but the thing is that Big Bend is best loved for it's solitude, so when she's a bit crowded it kinda takes away from her reputation. Having said that, there are still places you can hike without running into anyone at spring break. I would advise against any of the Chisos hikes, though. Desert hiking is your best bet for the lesser crowds. If you're good with a map and compass....just pick a spot that looks interesting. Off trail can be very rewarding.    

[Al]

As I've posted already I am a teacher and so I'm unfortunately on vacation with the masses.  I'm off Thanksgiving week, Christmas 2 wks. Spring break a week, and summer 2 mos. Of all these times are any less crowded, and still bearable weather wise?  I've got reservations at the Chisos Mining Co.And I'm looking forward to the trip. Will I really regret coming spring break? I'm coming mostly to take in the amazing beauty of the region, short hikes and lots of pictures, but the thought of swimming thru people to do it gives me the heebie jeebies.

The worst crowds in Big Bend at Spring Break makes every other place else you might want to go seem like South Padre. You have a place to stay and are good to go.  Do it.  A crowded Big Bend will be darned near the least population density you've seen in a long time. 

Al

Al

[STARLITDARKNESS3]

I have been in March (spring break), April, May, October, Novemeber.  Of all the times the least crowded was October, Great weather.  April held the best blooms throughout the park.  May was bearable but the rainstorms drenched us.  March, of course, was the most crowded time.  Even so, we were able to enjoy the park as much as we wanted to.  Last Spring Break, while hiking Pinnacles, we saw ten people or so.  Perhaps it was the time of day, or maybe the day itself.  I don't remember which day it was but it was Spring Break.  The only crowded area I recall were the Hot Spring and Sand Hill.  From others' experience here on BBC, Christmas is very busy, perhaps the week before or after would be better for you.  

Whatever you decide, you will not regret going. Even in Spring Break.    Have fun

[presidio]

Will I really regret coming spring break?

Probably not. Camping can be a challenge as those are the times when it seems every site is taken, even the more remote backroad ones.

As for hiking, avoid the heavily advertised trails and you will probably see no one. You don't HAVE to hike the Chisos or Lost Mine to have a good time, even on a first trip. Stay out in the lower desert areas and you will have it pretty much to yourself.

[jamesb]

I agree with everyone else. Spring break is "crowded" for big bend, but not as crowded as other parks get. I will say I have seen more people in the park during spring break than any other time. But once out on the trails you hardly see any one. most spring breakers are "exhibit" hikers and don't venture off the paved roads and not far from a parking area.

My wife is a teacher so I under stand your schedule. We have been during every school break, and spring break and thanksgiving were to most crowded times. Christmas break was not to bad and the daytime temps were very mild.

The summer is not too terribly hot for the area

I will be there March 15th to the 21st, and a few others from the forum will be there as well

James