Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in southern Colorado, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is home to the tallest dunes in North America. With rolling dunes reaching up to 750 feet high, sprawling grasslands, alpine forests, and wetlands, it’s a landscape like no other—wild, remote, and utterly breathtaking.

Beyond its natural wonders, the park is steeped in history. Indigenous peoples have revered this place for thousands of years, and its rich cultural heritage continues to shape the identity of the San Luis Valley. Today, visitors come from around the world to experience this rare convergence of desert and mountain ecosystems.

Things to Do

Explore the Dunes

The dunes are the park’s centerpiece, inviting visitors to climb, hike, and play.
Hike to High Dune or challenge yourself with the trek to Star Dune, one of the tallest in North America.
Try sandboarding or sand sledding down the slopes (rentals available in nearby Mosca and Alamosa).
In late spring and early summer, enjoy wading and floating in Medano Creek, a seasonal stream that flows at the base of the dunes—perfect for a refreshing splash.

Indigenous Communities The San Luis Valley is ancestral land for many Indigenous peoples, including the Ute, Apache, Diné (Navajo), and others. These communities have deep spiritual connections to the dunes, mountains, and waters of the region. Cultural ties are honored through place names, oral histories, and archaeological sites throughout the park. Visitors can learn about this legacy at the Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center and through seasonal ranger programs.

Culture and History

Explore the park’s human history, shaped by ancient peoples, Spanish settlers, and ranching traditions.
Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center: Features exhibits on geology, ecology, and cultural heritage.
Historic Medano Ranch: Located within the preserve, reflecting early 20th-century ranching life.
Join ranger-led programs for deeper insight into the people and forces that shaped this unique region.

Nature and Outdoors The park offers much more than sand dunes—its diverse ecosystems invite exploration year-round.

Hiking Trails:

Mosca Pass Trail winds through lush forests with wildflowers and scenic views.
Montville Nature Trail is a short, shaded walk ideal for families.
Wildlife Viewing: Look for mule deer, elk, coyotes, black bears, and over 200 species of birds.
Stargazing: As an International Dark Sky Park, Great Sand Dunes offers some of the best night skies in the U.S.—perfect for astrophotography and meteor showers.

Food and Drink While there are no restaurants inside the park, nearby towns offer a taste of Colorado hospitality.

Alamosa: Full-service dining, coffee shops, and breweries.
Mosca and Hooper: Small eateries and convenience stops closer to the park entrance.

Plan Your Trip

When to Visit:

Late May–early July: Best for experiencing Medano Creek in full flow.
September–October: Crisp weather, vibrant fall colors, and fewer crowds.
Winter months: Serene, snowy landscapes and stargazing opportunities, though temperatures can dip well below freezing.

Getting Here:

By Car: The park is located about 35 miles northeast of Alamosa, Colorado, off U.S. Highway 160 and Colorado Highway 150.
By Air: The nearest major airport is Colorado Springs Airport (165 miles away); smaller airports are located in Alamosa and Pueblo.
Public Transport: Limited; driving is highly recommended.

Where to Stay:

Piñon Flats Campground: Located inside the park, with tent and RV sites (reservations recommended).
Backcountry Camping: Available with permits for a more rugged adventure.
Alamosa: Hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.
Mosca and Hooper: Small inns, RV parks, and campsites.