Did you know that the largest sand dunes in North America are found in Colorado? Welcome to Great Sand Dunes National Park, an extraordinary place where massive dunes are nestled among Colorado’s high peaks. This unique landscape offers a magical experience unlike anywhere else. If you’re planning to explore, this guide will help you get started.
About Great Sand Dunes National Park
Established initially as a National Monument in 1932 and designated as a National Park in 2004, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve safeguards the continent’s tallest sand dunes. Over time, sediment carried by wind has accumulated in this area, trapped by surrounding mountains, forming an awe-inspiring landscape that feels almost otherworldly.
Exploring Great Sand Dunes National Park
# Dune Field
The Dune Field is the crowning jewel of Great Sand Dunes National Park. Accessible via the road on the left after the visitor center, this vast expanse allows for endless wandering and exploration. Remember to wear good eyewear, as it can be quite windy, and sand in your eyes is no fun. Activities include hiking and sandboarding/sledding (boards can be rented outside the park).
# Star Dune
At 741 feet, Star Dune vies for the title of the park’s tallest dune, a distinction it shares with Hidden Dune due to the shifting nature of sand. Hiking to Star Dune takes about six hours for a six-mile round trip, though trails can change as the dunes shift over time.
# Hidden Dune
Also reaching 741 feet, Hidden Dune is aptly named—I didn’t even realize it was the tallest when I visited! This hike is more challenging, stretching seven miles round trip and requiring a commitment of over six hours.
# High Dune
Visible from the parking lot, High Dune stands at 693 feet. While not the tallest, it is one of the highest that’s easily accessible. A round trip typically takes about two hours, perfect if you’re short on time.
# Non-Dune Hiking
Explore beyond the dunes with trails like the Mosca Pass Trail and Montville Nature Trail, which bring you closer to the mountains and offer a chance to encounter local wildlife. Few people venture here, so you might have much of it to yourself.
# Stargazing
The park’s remote location makes it ideal for stargazing. Far from city lights, the night sky reveals a dazzling array of stars, and during certain times of the year, you can even spot the Milky Way. The park also offers summer ranger programs focused on astronomy.
# Medano Pass 4WD Road
For those seeking a rugged adventure, Medano Pass 4WD Road leads to some of the park’s more remote areas. The initial section is accessible to AWD vehicles, but you’ll need a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle beyond the “point of no return” about 1.1 miles in. The road is sandy, and you’ll need to ford Medano Creek at times.
Where to Stay
# Camping
– Piñon Flats Campground: The main campground with 91 sites is easily accessible for most vehicles. Located near the visitor center, it charges $20 per night, and reservations are recommended through Recreation.gov.
– Backcountry Dune Camping: For a unique experience, camp under the stars on the dunes. Permits are required and available on Recreation.gov. Campsites are at least 1.5 hours from the start point.
– Medano Road Camping: With 21 primitive campgrounds along the Medano Road, these sites require a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to access.
# Hotels
No hotels are in the park, but nearby Alamosa offers several options:
– Zapata Ranch: Offers a luxurious experience close to the park, complete with horseback riding and nature programs.
– Holiday Inn Express Alamosa: A clean, standard hotel with a pool and breakfast.
– Fairfield Inn Alamosa: Super clean facilities, often compared with the Holiday Inn for price.
– Dunes Inn: Basic but clean, with cheaper rates and breakfast.
Dining and Rentals
– The Oasis Restaurant: The only dining option near the park, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It also rents sandboards and sleds.
– Great Sand Dunes Lodge, Spin Drift Sand Board Rentals, Kristi Mountain Sports: Rent your sandboards and sleds from these locations, but call ahead to ensure availability.
Basic Information
Visitor Center: Located at 11999 State Highway 150, Mosca, CO 81146, open 9:00 am – 4:30 pm. Closed on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Fees for private vehicles are $25, and for motorcycles, it’s $20. The park accepts the Annual America the Beautiful Pass.
Hours: The park is open 24/7, though some areas may close to vehicle traffic in winter.
Getting There: You’ll need a car. Major routes include I-25S to US-160W to CO-150N from eastern Colorado and several other scenic routes.
Tips & FAQs
– Dress in layers and wear sunscreen.
– Bring lots of water and protective eyewear.
– Wildlife, including bears and mountain lions, is present—stay safe.
– Book early for permits and campsites.
– Rent your sandboards before arriving at the park as rentals can sell out quickly.
Other Posts You May Like
– *Guide to Mesa Verde National Park*
– *Guide to Ranger-Led Cliff Dwelling Tours at Mesa Verde National Park*
– *Guide to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park*
– *Visitor’s Guide for Dinosaur National Monument*
– *Guide to Florissant Fossil Beds*
This guide should give you a good start for an unforgettable visit to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve!
