We are thinking of going to Big Bend in the fall to visit friends who live there. Is this a good time to go? When is the best weather (less rain but still warm) - early October, late October or early November?

We are looking to fly into El Paso or Midland/Odessa. Since the drive is about the same, which route has more things to see on the way (cultural or natural attractions) if we take a day or two on the way to BBNP or on the way back?

anyone?

May - October are the wettest months. October averages over 2 inches of rain, while November averages only about 3/4 of an inch. Of course, the average highs and lows are about 10 degrees warmer in October (79/53 vs. 69/42).

I wouldn't call 2 inches of rain a monsoon by any measure, so that wouldn't really prevent me from going in October. In fact, I may be headed there early October myself. Clouds make for better sunsets anyway.

I've only driven there from Midland/Odessa so I can't compare it to the El Paso route. I've stopped at Monahans Sandhills State Park (pretty cool), and Fort Davis Nat'l Historic Site (also really cool). The one advantage I can think of for going thru El Paso is that you can drive the river road from Big Bend NP to Presidio - it's supposed to be one of the most scenic roads in the country. Of course, with an extra day or two, you can also do that as a detour on your way back to Midland.

What sort of things do you already have in mind for activities?

Thanks for the info. Looks like later in October or early November is best. And the airport is a toss-up, so we'll shoot for the lowest airfare and take your suggestions for things to see en route.

As for activities, we'll do some hiking, and maybe take a river trip. Sounds like a good time of year for going out on the river. We'll be visiting friends who live there (he is a ranger in the park) so we'll have the benefit of locals to steer us toward fun things to do.

I love Big Bend at any time of the year. The last time we were there in Feb we had a few snow flakes.

You're lucky to have someone who can show you around. There are so many off-the-beaten path areas that most people don't know about.

I would be remiss is I didn't mention Guadalupe Mountains NP and Carlsbad Caverns NP. Neither are directly on the way to or from El Paso, but they're relatively close (not more than a few hours out of the way). The fall colors are supposed to be spectacular in Guadalupe Mtns, although late October/early November may be too late for that.

late October is a perfect time to visit. Years ago we went in the end of October to see fall colors in Guadalupe Mtns. They were beautiful in the canyon. It is a long hike before you see them.

Hi Stella - would also suggest October, but early Nov should also be fine. Don't know your origination point, but think you'll find more options flying into El Paso and the drive should be more interesting. Midland/Odessa has a very nice airport and easy access to rental cars, but flight options are pretty limited since they're quite a bit smaller than El Paso.