Great Sand Dunes National Park
Discover Colorado's Great Sand Dunes National Park, featuring towering dunes, scenic mountains, and exciting sandboarding adventures.
Great Sand Dunes National Park, located in south-central Colorado, is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. Nestled against the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the park features diverse landscapes, including vast dunes, alpine forests, and wetlands, offering a unique mix of desert and mountain beauty.
Location
Great Sand Dunes National Park is nestled in south-central Colorado, USA, near the town of Alamosa. The park sits at the foot of the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering a stunning blend of towering dunes, alpine peaks, and lush meadows.
Quick Facts
Size: 149,028 acres
Year Established: 2004 (designated as a national park, with its initial designation as a national monument in 1932)
Unique Features:Home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, reaching heights of over 750 feet.
Features diverse ecosystems, including grasslands, wetlands, alpine forests, and tundra.
The seasonal Medano Creek provides a rare beach-like experience in the high desert.
Great Sand Dunes National Park is a one-of-a-kind destination that captivates adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Its towering dunes are a playground for sandboarding and sledding, while the surrounding landscapes invite hiking, stargazing, and wildlife observation. The park's surreal beauty, especially at sunrise and sunset, and its diverse ecosystems make it a must-visit for those seeking a unique blend of desert and mountain experiences. Whether you're marveling at the vast dunes or exploring the alpine trails, this park promises unforgettable memories in every season.
Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, with some reaching heights of over 750 feet. These massive dunes are constantly reshaped by the wind, creating a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. The park's location at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains adds to its dramatic scenery, with towering peaks providing a striking contrast to the golden sands below. Despite its arid appearance, the park features diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, alpine forests, and grasslands, supporting a variety of wildlife such as elk, black bears, and even rare tiger salamanders.