Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a United States National Park located in the San Luis Valley of Colorado, to the east of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The park protects 38,000 acres (150 km2) of dunes, the largest dune field in North America. The preserve is adjacent to the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness Area.
The park includes a visitor center, picnic area, and campsites. The dunes are relatively easy to hike and there are several trails of varying difficulty. The park also offers opportunities for horseback riding, backpacking, and sand sledding.
Great Sand Dunes is known for its unique geology as well as its diverse ecology. The dunes are thought to have been formed by wind and water erosion of the nearby mountains. The dunes are home to a variety of plants and animals, including several endangered species.
Great Sand Dunes is a popular tourist destination for its unique landscape and recreation opportunities. The park receives over 300,000 visitors each year.
1. Camping
The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a great place to go camping. You can expect to camp next to the sand dunes or in one of the many campgrounds that are located throughout the park. The park is open from May until October, and during this time, you can expect to see a lot of people.
2. Hiking
Hiking in or near Great Sand Dunes is an exhilarating experience. You will experience vastness, openness, and solitude. The sand is soft and gentle under your feet, and the dunes are a beautiful backdrop to your hike.
3. Backpacking
Great Sand Dunes National Park is a must-see for anyone traveling in or near the Colorado Desert. The dunes are a natural wonder and can be seen from many miles away. The sand is soft and fine, making for a comfortable walk. There are also a few campsites available if you'd like to spend the night. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, so there's plenty of time to explore.
4. Horseback riding
The Great Sand Dunes National Park is located in the San Luis Valley, east of the San Luis Mountains. The park contains over 60,000 acres of dunes, sand hills, and valleys. The dunes are a popular destination for horseback riding, as the terrain is gentle and the ride is relatively short. Visitors will travel through the dunes on well-maintained trails, stopping at scenic overlooks to take in the views.
5. Rock climbing
Rock climbing in or near Great Sand Dunes can be an exciting and thrilling experience. Climbers will need to be prepared for challenging climbs and plenty of exposure to the sun and wind.
6. Bird watching
Watching birds in or near Great Sand Dunes is a great experience. You can expect to see a variety of birds, including sandhill cranes, eagles, hawks, and songbirds. The dunes themselves are a great place to watch the birds, as they can often be seen flying or walking around.