Great Sand Dunes National Park
DISTRICT GUIDE

Great Sand Dunes National Park

North America's tallest sand dunes beneath snow-capped peaks

Picture this: 750-foot sand dunes that look like they belong in the Sahara, but they're sitting right beneath Colorado's snow-capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of those places that makes you do a double-take. The tallest sand dunes in North America rise from the San Luis Valley floor like golden waves frozen in time.

Here's what makes this place special — you can actually climb these massive dunes. No ropes off areas or "look but don't touch" signs. Kids sprint up the sandy slopes while adults huff and puff behind them, but everyone reaches the top eventually. The view from Star Dune, the park's tallest at 750 feet, stretches across the entire valley.

But the dunes are just the beginning. Medano Creek flows along the base from late May through July, creating a natural beach where families splash around in mountain snowmelt. The contrast is surreal — desert sand meeting alpine water with 14,000-foot peaks towering overhead.

Itineraries coming soon

We're working on adding amazing itineraries for Great Sand Dunes National Park. In the meantime, try the app to create your own!

The beauty of Great Sand Dunes is that there aren't really "trails" in the traditional sense. You just pick a dune and start climbing. Most people head for High Dune, the second tallest at 650 feet — it's about a 2-mile round trip with 650 feet of elevation gain through soft sand. Expect it to take 2-3 hours. Star Dune is the ultimate challenge at 750 feet tall, but it's a 5-mile trek from the parking area. Only attempt this if you're in good shape and have plenty of water. The sand gets scorching hot in summer — we're talking 140°F surface temperatures. For families with little ones, stick to the smaller dunes near the creek. Kids love rolling down the sandy slopes, and the climb back up is manageable. The Montville Nature Trail offers a 0.5-mile loop through the grasslands if you want actual trail markers and shade. Pro tip: Dune climbing is like walking in deep snow but harder. Your calves will burn, and you'll slide back with every step. But that's part of the fun.

Money-Saving Tips

  • 1.Pack your own sand sleds instead of renting at the Great Sand Dunes Oasis — a basic sled costs $20 to buy versus $20 per day to rent
  • 2.Camp at Pinyon Flats Campground for $25/night instead of staying in Alamosa hotels that run $120+
  • 3.Bring plenty of water and snacks — the park's small store charges $3 for a water bottle
  • 4.Visit in shoulder seasons (May, September, October) for lower accommodation rates and smaller crowds
  • 5.Use your America the Beautiful Annual Pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks — it pays for itself after 3 visits

Travel Tips

  • •Start dune climbing early morning — sand temperatures can reach 140°F by afternoon in summer
  • •Bring closed-toe shoes even if you plan to go barefoot — you'll need them for the walk to and from the dunes
  • •Check Medano Creek conditions before visiting — it only flows strongly from late May through July
  • •Download offline maps — cell service is spotty throughout the park
  • •Pack a bandana or buff to protect your face from blowing sand on windy days
  • •Bring more water than you think you need — the combination of altitude, sun, and physical exertion is dehydrating
  • •Consider visiting during a full moon for incredible night photography opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Sandboarding and sand sledding are popular activities. You can rent boards at Great Sand Dunes Oasis just outside the park for about $20/day, or bring your own. The best slopes are on the slip faces of the larger dunes.

Explore Great Sand Dunes National Park

Things to Do in Great Sand Dunes National ParkWhen to Visit Great Sand Dunes National Park3 Days in Great Sand Dunes National Park7 Days in Great Sand Dunes National Park

BUILD YOUR
GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK PLAN

Insider picks, smart timing, and a plan ready when you are.

Start Planning