Harness Money

Here is your travel guide for the Great Sand Dunes national park and preserve.

Location:

• Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is located in southern Colorado, in the United States.

Best Time to Visit:

• The best time to visit Great Sand Dunes National Park is during the late spring, summer, and early fall months, from late May to early October, when the weather is pleasant, and the sand is not too hot.
• Late spring and early fall are less crowded, offering a quieter experience.
• Winters can be cold, and some park facilities may be closed, but it’s a unique time to visit for snowshoeing and sandboarding.

Getting There:

• The nearest major airport is Alamosa-San Luis Valley Regional Airport (ALS) in Alamosa, Colorado.
• The park is accessible by car via U.S. Route 160 and Colorado State Highway 150.

Accommodation:

• Great Sand Dunes National Park offers a campground, the Piñon Flats Campground, which is open seasonally. Reservations are recommended.
• Lodging options are available in nearby towns such as Alamosa, Mosca, and Hooper.

Must-See Attractions:

1. Great Sand Dunes: Explore the towering sand dunes, including the tallest in North America, Star Dune.
2. Medano Creek: Visit in late spring or early summer to experience the seasonal creek, which flows at the base of the dunes.
3. Zapata Falls: Hike to Zapata Falls, a hidden waterfall located a short drive from the park.
4. Visitor Center: Stop by the visitor center for information, exhibits, and ranger-led programs.

Activities:

• Sandboarding and Sledding: Rent sandboards or sleds and glide down the dunes for an exhilarating experience.
• Hiking: The park offers various hiking trails, including the Dunes Overlook Trail and the Mosca Pass Trail.
• Photography: Capture the unique landscapes of the dunes, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Birdwatching: Look for bird species in the park, including waterfowl at Medano Creek.
• Stargazing: Enjoy excellent stargazing opportunities due to the park’s remote location and dark skies.

Safety Tips:

• Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sand can reflect intense sunlight.
• Be cautious of rapidly changing weather conditions, including afternoon thunderstorms.
• Stay hydrated and carry enough water, especially during hot summer days.

Note: Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is known for its surreal landscapes of towering sand dunes against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It offers a unique combination of outdoor activities, from sandboarding to hiking and wildlife watching.

Before planning your visit, check the National Park Service website for the latest information on park hours, weather conditions, and visitor center hours in Great Sand Dunes National Park. Enjoy your adventure in this remarkable natural playground!