Best Things to Do in Great Sand Dunes National Park
Nestled in southern Colorado, Great Sand Dunes National Park boasts the tallest sand dunes in North America, rising dramatically against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This unique landscape, formed by ancient rivers and winds, offers a playground for adventurers and nature lovers alike. If you’re wondering about the Best Things to Do in Great Sand Dunes National Park, this guide highlights top activities, from dune sledding to stargazing, ensuring you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re a family seeking fun or a hiker chasing solitude, these experiences will leave you in awe of this surreal, otherworldly destination.
Why Visit Great Sand Dunes National Park?
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve spans 330 square miles, blending towering dunes (up to 750 feet) with alpine lakes, forests, and wetlands. It’s a geological marvel where Medano Creek creates seasonal “beaches” in spring, and the park’s International Dark Sky designation makes it prime for astronomy. Visiting here means escaping crowds for an immersive natural experience—perfect for those tired of typical tourist spots.
Practical insight: The park’s high elevation (over 8,000 feet) means cooler temps year-round; summer days hit 80°F, but nights drop to 40°F. Entrance is $25 per vehicle (valid 7 days), and it’s open 24/7, though visitor centers operate seasonally. Pro tip: Arrive early to beat afternoon winds that can whip up sandstorms—check the NPS weather page before heading out.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring brings creek play; summer is for sledding; fall offers golden aspens; winter turns dunes into a snowy wonderland for cross-country skiing. Example: A May visit lets you splash in Medano Creek while avoiding peak heat.
Top Activities: The Best Things to Do in Great Sand Dunes National Park
From adrenaline-pumping slides to serene hikes, the park’s diverse offerings cater to all levels. Here’s a curated list of must-dos, with tips to enhance your adventure.
1. Sand Sledding and Sandboarding on the Dunes
One of the park’s signature thrills, sledding down the massive dunes mimics skiing on sand. Rent boards or sleds from vendors like Kristi Mountain Sports in Alamosa (about 30 miles away) for $20-30 per day—plastic saucer sleds work best for beginners, while boards are for pros.
Practical tip: Start at the “dune field” near the Dunes Overlook parking lot. Wear closed-toe shoes and eye protection; sunscreen is essential as sand reflects UV rays intensely. Insight: The friction generates heat—expect a warm slide! Sessions last 1-2 hours; families love it, but it’s not suitable for very young kids due to the steep drops.
2. Hiking the High Dune or Star Dune
Tackle the park’s iconic hikes for panoramic views. The High Dune Trail (2.5 miles round-trip, 300 feet elevation) leads to the 650-foot summit, while the more challenging Star Dune (3 miles round-trip, 700 feet) reaches the tallest at 750 feet. Both start from the main dune access point.
Example itinerary: Begin at dawn for cooler temps and fewer crowds—reach the top in 1-2 hours. Pro tip: Follow “ridges” between dunes to conserve energy; bring plenty of water (at least 1 liter per hour) as there’s no shade. Reward: Sweeping vistas of the entire dune field and mountains.
3. Exploring Medano Creek and the Beach Area
In spring (April-June), Medano Creek flows gently, creating a natural beach for picnics and wading. Even in summer, it’s a spot to relax and build sandcastles amid the dunes.
Insight: Water levels vary—check the park’s creek gauge online. Tip: Pack a picnic from nearby Alamosa and arrive by 10 a.m. to secure a spot. This low-key activity is ideal for families or as a cooldown after hiking.
4. Stargazing and Night Sky Programs
As a certified Dark Sky Park, Great Sand Dunes offers unparalleled stargazing. Join ranger-led programs at the amphitheater or view from the dunes themselves—constellations pop against the black sky.
Practical tip: Visit in new moon phases for the clearest views; bring a blanket and red-light flashlight to preserve night vision. Example: On a clear night, you might spot the Milky Way arching over the dunes—a photographer’s dream with long-exposure shots.
5. Backcountry Adventures and Wildlife Watching
For deeper exploration, venture into the preserve via trails like the Sand Creek Basin (permit required for overnight). Spot wildlife such as pronghorn, elk, or black bears from the Mosca Pass Trail (7 miles round-trip).
Insight: Permits ($20) are free for day hikes but bookable via Recreation.gov; always carry bear spray. Tip: Early mornings or evenings are best for sightings—join a guided tour for safety and education.
6. Soaking in Nearby Hot Springs
Extend your trip with a soak at the Sand Dunes Swimming Pool and RV Park or Joyful Journey Hot Springs (30-45 minutes drive). These natural mineral pools provide relaxation post-dune exertion.
Comparison of Great Sand Dunes Activities
To help you prioritize based on your group’s interests and fitness level, here’s a markdown comparison table of the top things to do:
| Activity | Difficulty Level | Best Season | Cost (Approx.) | Pros | Cons | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sand Sledding/Sandboarding | Easy-Moderate | Summer | $20-30 (rental) | Thrilling fun, family-friendly | Sand in gear, requires rental | Adventure seekers, kids |
| High Dune Hike | Moderate | Spring-Fall | Free (park entry) | Stunning views, achievable | Steep sand, no shade | Hikers, photographers |
| Medano Creek Play | Easy | Spring | Free | Relaxing, unique beach vibe | Seasonal water, crowds | Families, relaxation |
| Stargazing | Easy | Year-round | Free | Magical skies, educational | Cold nights, light pollution risk | Astronomy fans, romantics |
| Backcountry Hiking | Hard | Summer-Fall | $20 (permit) | Solitude, wildlife | Strenuous, navigation needed | Experienced adventurers |
| Hot Springs Soak | Easy | Year-round | $10-20 entry | Therapeutic recovery | Drive required, not in-park | Post-activity unwind |
This table underscores how activities like sledding offer quick thrills, while hikes provide deeper immersion—choose based on time and energy.
Practical Tips for Your Great Sand Dunes Visit
- Preparation Essentials: Acclimate to altitude to avoid headaches—hydrate and take it slow. Rent gear in Alamosa to avoid hauling it; pack snacks as in-park concessions are limited.
- Safety Insights: Watch for rattlesnakes in warmer months; stay on dunes to avoid damaging fragile plants. Example: For a full day, combine sledding with a short hike, then stargaze at night.
- Eco-Friendly Advice: Follow Leave No Trace principles—bury human waste 6-8 inches deep and pack out trash to protect this delicate ecosystem.
- Lodging Nearby: Stay at Great Sand Dunes Lodge or Piñon Flats Campground inside the park for convenience.
Common challenge: Sudden weather changes—monitor forecasts and have a flexible itinerary.
FAQ
1. What is the best time of year for activities in Great Sand Dunes National Park?
Spring and summer for creek play and sledding; year-round for hiking, but avoid mid-day summer heat.
2. Do I need permits for hiking or backcountry activities?
Day hikes are free, but overnight backcountry permits ($20) are required and available on Recreation.gov.
3. Can I rent sand sleds inside the park?
No, rentals are only available in nearby Alamosa—plan to pick them up en route.
4. Is Great Sand Dunes suitable for young children?
Yes, for easy activities like creek play and short dune walks, but supervise closely on steep dunes.
5. How do I get to Great Sand Dunes National Park?
Fly into Alamosa Airport (45 minutes away) or drive from Denver (3.5 hours); main access via CO-150.
6. Are there guided tours available?
Yes, ranger programs are free; private tours through outfitters like Kristi Mountain Sports start at $50/person.
Resources
- Great Sand Dunes National Park Official Website – Maps, alerts, and activity guides.
- Recreation.gov – Backcountry Permits – For overnight stays and reservations.
- Kristi Mountain Sports – Gear rentals for sledding and boarding.
- Visit Alamosa – Nearby town info, dining, and lodging.
- NPS Great Sand Dunes Planning Your Visit – Detailed itineraries and safety tips.
- AllTrails – Great Sand Dunes Hikes – User-reviewed trail details.
