When we first visited Great Sand Dunes National Park, I really had no framework for what we were about to experience. But, it’s such a cool place! Yes, they are just really big sand dunes, but set inside the background of a mountain range, all I could think was,
With Great Sand Dunes being one of the lesser visited, and fairly remote, National Parks, I want to give some tips for what to know before you visit!
Great Sand Dunes is located in south central Colorado, kinda in the middle of no man’s land. Your closest two airports are San Luis Valley in Alamosa (45 minutes) and Pueblo (2 hours), both of which are only regionally served by United Express.
Unfortunately, they’re a little pricey to get in and out of, and with only a couple flights per day, options aren’t very flexible! Gunnison is about 2.5 hours away, but again, is only regionally serviced by United. So, that leaves a couple airports that are both about 3 hours away: Colorado Springs and Santa Fe.
Regardless of where you fly from, you’ve got a little drive ahead of you, but don't let that discourage you from going!
If you’re in for some camping, Piñon Flats Campground is open during the Spring and Summer months inside of the National Park. There are also a few campgrounds along the road out to the park, but most of them are pretty primitive. If you’re not traveling in an RV, I probably would not recommend them on a quick trip!
Alamosa is the closest town, and it’s known as the Gateway to Great Sand Dunes! At risk of insulting any Alamosa lovers, it’s not the coolest place I’ve ever been through.
National Parks are hit and miss for dog friendliness, which makes Great Sand Dunes such a treat!
And, it wore him the heck out. If you’re deciding on stopping here during a road trip, it’s one of the best parks we’ve been to for dogs. 5/5 paw rating from the pup!
Hiking
One of the most fun parts about hiking within Great Sand Dunes is that it’s kind of like a “Choose Your Own Adventure” book. Once you’re on the sand, there’s foot tracks all over the place, and very little guidance as to how you should get up the hill.
I’d highly recommend attempting High Dune Trail, but be prepared for plenty of stopping and starting!
Unless you get lucky and have some rain the night before to pack the sand down, a good portion of your hiking will be through ankle deep sand. It’s a tough trek! Bring plenty of water and some snacks with you, and take your time with plenty of rest. It’s about 3 miles round trip to the top, but feels longer!
Sand sledding
With slopes like these, sand sledding is a must! Unfortunately, the park itself doesn’t rent or sell sleds, so you’ve gotta come prepared. Kristi Mountain Sports is a spot in Alamosa that you can rent sleds or sandboards from before you head to the park.
See the Milky Way
If you’re staying close enough to hang out until the park gets dark, the park transforms entirely! Go in late summer or early fall for the best chance to see the Milky Way from the park.
