Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve Guide
Climb the Star Dunes: An Adventure in the Colorado Desert Guide
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, a surreal landscape of towering sand dunes nestled against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Located in southern Colorado, this park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, creating a striking contrast between the arid desert environment and the snow-capped peaks. Prepare for an adventure filled with hiking, sandboarding, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the country. The formation of the Great Sand Dunes is a fascinating story of wind, water, and geology. Over thousands of years, sand eroded from the surrounding mountains was carried by the Rio Grande and its tributaries into the San Luis Valley. Prevailing winds then pushed the sand towards the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, where it accumulated over time to form the massive dunes we see today. The park also has a rich human history, with evidence of Native American presence dating back over 11,000 years. The Ute, Apache, and Navajo tribes all utilized the area for hunting and gathering. European exploration began in the 17th century, followed by settlement and ranching. The park was established in 1932 as a national monument and later designated a national park and preserve in 2004. The primary activity at Great Sand Dunes is, of course, climbing and exploring the dunes. Sandboarding and sand sledding are popular, and rentals are available near the park entrance. Hiking is also a great way to experience the park, with trails ranging from easy walks along Medano Creek to challenging climbs to the summit of Star Dune, the tallest dune in North America. Medano Creek, a seasonal stream that flows along the base of the dunes in the spring and early summer, provides a unique opportunity for splashing and playing in the water. Stargazing is exceptional due to the park's remote location and minimal light pollution. The park also offers ranger-led programs and guided tours. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition within the park, nearby towns like Alamosa offer a variety of dining options, including Southwestern cuisine.
Transportation
The closest airport is San Luis Valley Regional Airport (ALS) in Alamosa, about 30 miles from the park. From Alamosa, you'll need to rent a car to reach the park. There is no public transportation directly to the park. From Alamosa, take US-160 east to CO-150 north. The park entrance is located on CO-150.
Ticket Price
$25 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)