Potrero Chico: when to go?

Hi guys!
I am planning a trip to EPC this winter/spring.
I was wondering what you guys think is smarter between going for 10 days in the Christmas time or going 7days in early March. 
I heard it gets really crowded in the holidays..

Thanks a lot!

10 days around Christmas time has usually been fantastic. You'll probably win either way. March is also usually great, but 10 days versus 7 days, I'd go with the extra 3 days around Christmas.

If your goal is to do a lot of climbing and hit the big classics, you'll probably have a better time in March.  Between Christmas and New Years is far and away the busiest time there, and you should expect congestion on all of the classic routes.  There is also the possibility of very cold weather.  In March you won't have to worry much about crowds, and can just climb in the shade if it's too hot.  

But if you also enjoy the social aspect and the parties, the Christmas week is when that will be at its best.  So up to you.

Jay Morse wrote: If your goal is to do a lot of climbing and hit the big classics, you'll probably have a better time in March.  Between Christmas and New Years is far and away the busiest time there, and you should expect congestion on all of the classic routes.  There is also the possibility of very cold weather.  In March you won't have to worry much about crowds, and can just climb in the shade if it's too hot.  

But if you also enjoy the social aspect and the parties, the Christmas week is when that will be at its best.  So up to you.

I go mid to late February . Perfect. Not to hot, March could get hot in sun, but then just find shade to climb in. Also far fewer people 

Sarah Klinkow wrote: Hi guys!
I am planning a trip to EPC this winter/spring.
I was wondering what you guys think is smarter between going for 10 days in the Christmas time or going 7days in early March. 
I heard it gets really crowded in the holidays..

Thanks a lot!

Do you have a partner, or are you looking to find a partner?

If you're looking to find someone, then the crowds are a good thing.  Do the 10 days over Christmas.  Otherwise, early March.  You may need to chase shade -- but there's lots of shade to chase.

Go during Mardi Gras! That's when all the couillions from the swamps go!

Hank Caylor wrote: 10 days around Christmas time has usually been fantastic. You'll probably win either way. March is also usually great, but 10 days versus 7 days, I'd go with the extra 3 days around Christmas.

The days are MUCH shorter around Christmas.   So probably the same amount of daylight in 10 days vs. 7 days in March.