Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

After a night of rest we awoke early and set out for the long drive (Approx. 5 hours) to Great Sand Dunes National Park. We did hit some traffic along the way so always plan on it. On our way to the park we stopped at a small shop ( not much around the area) and rented a sled. Yes, a sled! We had heard that you can slide down the dunes and we wanted to give it a try. Lodging is very limited around the park so plan ahead. They do have awesome campsites at the park that can be reserved.

I was able to book a room at a working Bison Ranch. This was an experience that I am glad we had an opportunity to do. The ranch is about preservation of the land. We met many nice people who were vacationing and working at the ranch. They had very cool intern opportunities. The ranch provided us with an awesome dinner, breakfast, and even a bag lunch for our drive home.

After dinner we decided to head over to the dunes. One thing we didn't expect was the amount of mosquitos! Apparently, they had just hatched and they were everywhere! Even the best bug spray was just a bit effective. So we didn't stay long at the dunes. We headed back to our room and I was hoping to do some night sky photography ( Many of the NP are considered Dark Sky Certified) but once again the clouds rolled in. I did not have any clear night skies for this entire trip.

After breakfast we went straight to the dunes again. The mosquitos were gone on the dunes and we had a blast sledding, climbing, and photographing this spectacular park. The sand on the dunes can reach up to 150 degrees so going early and having protection for your feet was important. At the base of the dunes is a stream that people swim and body surf in during the spring snow melt and as summer rolls around it starts to dry up leaving a trickle of water to cool off your feet. The mountains around the dunes add another layer to this park abundant with wildlife. Each season brings a different look and adventure to this beautiful park.

About Great Sand Dunes:

A sandbox of epic proportions, the entire dune field encompasses 30 square miles and the tallest dune towers 750 feet high. A sandbox of epic proportions, the entire dune field encompasses 30 square miles and the tallest dune towers 750 feet high.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPb2IwY9Anw

This is another must see! It is truly one of the great wonders!