Nestled against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains on the edge of San Luis Valley is Great Sand Dunes National Park, officially established in 2000. 11% of its 330-square miles are represented by North America's tallest sand dunes, some reaching over 700 feet tall. Most of the sand originated in the San Juan Mountains and over the course of about 440,000 years, southwesterly winds bounced sand grains around to form the dunes along the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Before You Go
Great Sand Dunes National Park is located near Mosca, Colorado, about 3-1/2 hours from Denver. It is very important to plan out your visit before arriving because the area is somewhat isolated. The nearest 24-hour gas station is over 20 miles away, and your best bet for restaurants are in Alamosa, about 30 miles from the park. So have a full tank of gas and snacks in the car!
And... there are mosquitos, particular around the creek area and when the temperatures start to soar so be sure to bring bug spray! Our car even got surrounded as we drove down a dirt road away from the water.
What to Do
- Sand Sledding and Sand Boarding. The activity we were most excited about was Sand Sledding (Sand Boards also available). These are specially designed wooden sleds with waxed bottoms that sail great down the dunes. They are available for rental at The Oasis Store on-site or at Kristi Mountain Sports in Alamosa. (I was not able to find these for rent anywhere in Denver). Snow sleds/boards do not work on the sand.
https://youtu.be/v0xY2BFdi8Y
- Medano Creek. Extending through the Dunes, this is a stream that begins to trickle in April from snow melt, peaks in mid-June, and eventually dries up by late July. Depending on the time of year, it can be used for tubing, wading, splashing, and of course, sand castle building. My kids enjoyed wiggling in the water and building towers with the sand and branches.
- Trails. There aren't any designated trails within the Dunes but you are welcome to hike anywhere. Remember it is sand, so it isn't as easy as walking on a regular dirt trail! Other areas of the preserve beyond the dunes offer horseback riding, forested trails, backpacking, and adventures for 4WD vehicles.
- Ranger Programs. Periodically during the peak Summer season Junior Ranger Days are offered. Check the website for dates.
- Zapata Falls. A couple miles from the park entrance you'll find Zapata Falls Recreation Area. Once you drive down the dirt road you'll find the trailhead for hiking 1/2 mile to the creek. The waterfall falls within its narrow gorge and you must wade through the water and over rocks to view it. We did not have our water shoes on so our feet got completely drenched but it was very beautiful to see.
Where to Stay and Eat
Lodging, dining, and gas options are virtually non-existent within 30 miles of the park so planning your trip carefully is important.
- Lodging. At the entrance to the park is the Great Sand Dunes Lodge which is where we stayed. It is a clean, very basic lodge with a small selection of rooms and does not include a restaurant. However, the rooms do include a small refrigerator and access to grills so be sure to bring your own food!
- Dining. The only dining option within 30 miles is the Oasis, located at the front of the park. It offers a basic menu with nice variety and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. We ate a couple meals here but drove into Alamosa (30 miles) for dinner. Oasis is only open during the Summer months.
- Camping. There are several campgrounds within 40 miles of the park.
- Gas. There is one gas station at the Oasis which is only open a few months of the Summer season.
- Other hotel and dining options are located about 30 miles away in Alamosa.
DISCLOSURE: No compensation was given for this review. The opinions expressed are 100% my own.
