Great Sand Dunes National Park
Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado is an expanse of towering sand dunes, diverse wetlands, and alpine forests nestled against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Covering over 149,000 acres, this park is best known for its dramatic landscapes, from the tallest sand dunes in North America to the Medano Creek.
Some of the park’s most iconic features include the towering Star Dune, the scenic Medano Pass Primitive Road, and the lush Montville Nature Trail. Great Sand Dunes is a diverse park, and exploring its different areas by hiking, sandboarding, and driving provides a variety of unique experiences. Most visitors head to the main dune field near the visitor center, but the remote and beautiful backcountry areas, such as the Sand Ramp Trail and the alpine trails in the mountains, are absolutely worth a visit.
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Highlights of Great Sand Dunes National Park
Star Dune: The tallest sand dune in North America, rising about 750 feet from the base, offering a challenging and rewarding climb with spectacular views.
High Dune: A popular hike that provides stunning panoramic views of the entire dune field and the surrounding mountains.
Medano Creek: A seasonal stream at the base of the dunes, perfect for splashing and sandboarding, especially in late spring and early summer when the water flows.
Medano Pass Primitive Road: A scenic and adventurous 4×4 trail providing access to remote areas of the park and beautiful views of the dunes and mountains.
Sandboarding and Sand Sledding: Unique and exciting activities on the dunes, with rentals available nearby, perfect for both beginners and experienced sandboarders.
Montville Nature Trail: A short, scenic hike offering lush forest views, excellent birdwatching opportunities, and a tranquil escape from the sand.
Mosca Pass Trail: A picturesque hike through aspen and pine forests, leading to beautiful views of the San Luis Valley and the surrounding mountains.
Zapata Falls: A nearby hidden gem featuring a beautiful waterfall, providing a refreshing escape and a cool, shaded area on a hot day.
Night Sky Viewing: The park’s remote location and high elevation provide excellent conditions for stargazing and astrophotography, with clear, dark skies.
Backcountry Camping: Opportunities to camp among the dunes or in the surrounding wilderness, offering a more secluded and immersive experience in the park’s diverse landscapes.
Travel Guides to Great Sand Dunes National Park
Things to Know About Visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park
Best Time of Year to Visit Great Sand Dunes
The best time to visit Great Sand Dunes National Park is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) seasons. During these months, the weather is typically mild and comfortable, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit (15-30°C). Spring and fall also bring fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience. The park’s desert environment can experience large temperature swings from daytime to nighttime, so layering clothing is advisable.
How to Get to Great Sand Dunes
To get to Great Sand Dunes National Park, fly into the nearest major airport in Denver, Colorado, and then drive approximately 3 hours south to the park’s entrance. From Denver, take Interstate 25 south and then Highway 160 west towards Alamosa. Alternatively, you can fly into Alamosa Regional Airport and drive about 40 minutes northeast to the park entrance.
How Much Time do you Need in Great Sand Dunes
You should plan to spend a day (or at least 1/2 a day at Great Sand Dunes National Park. This gives you time to hike up some of teh dunes, enjoy some sandboarding time and explore some of the short trails or creek area.
Need to Know about Great Sand Dunes
Timed-Entry System: Currently, there is no timed entry system for Great Sand Dunes National Park. To avoid heat and crowds, especially in popular areas like the dune field, consider arriving early in the morning. Parking spaces can fill up quickly during peak times, so planning ahead is recommended.
Heat Advisory: As a desert park, temperatures at Great Sand Dunes can become very high. Be sure to bring plenty of water, check the weather forecast beforehand, and schedule hikes during the cooler morning hours to avoid the hottest part of the day. We were there is April on a nice day – the sand was hot, it was windy and then it snowed – so be prepared!
Permits and Fees: There is an entrance fee for the park. Certain areas, such as backcountry camping sites and the Medano Pass Primitive Road, require additional permits. America the Beautiful passes are accepted for entry.
Leave No Trace: Help preserve the park’s delicate ecosystem by following Leave No Trace principles. Stick to designated trails, pack out all trash, and respect wildlife and vegetation to ensure the park remains pristine for future visitors.
Lodging near Great Sand Dunes National Park
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There are also several campground inside and near the park that should be booked well in advance.
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