Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve | American Tour Association

A PLACE TO REMEMBER

Make room for the wonder.

Tall sand dunes sit below the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in a striking meeting of landscapes. You can appreciate the view from the dune field’s edge or choose a more energetic walk into the sand.

Grasslands, large dunes, and snow-capped peaks at sunset — The view at the park entrance contrasts giant dunes and snow-capped mountains.
NPS/Patrick Myers · Photography credit

Girls Sand Sledding — Rent specially designed sand sleds to slide on the dry sand. Note: cardboard, snow sleds, saucers, and other items don't slide on dry sand.
NPS/Patrick Myers · Photography credit

BUILD YOUR OWN PARK DAY

Places to consider

01Dune field
02Medano Creek area
03Visitor center

Choose the stops that suit your time and your party. These are ideas for exploring, rather than a fixed itinerary or a promise that every road, trail or facility will be open.

Before you set out

Sand becomes very hot in sunny weather. Creek flow and road conditions vary; choose footwear and activity levels for the day’s conditions.

Give the day room

Allow time for the approach, parking and breaks. Pick walks for the least mobile members of your party, and leave space for weather or a change of plans.

Bring your group

Confirm vehicle access, drop-off and parking with the park. Check any guided tours, transport and accessibility arrangements before fixing the rest of the itinerary.

Official park visitor guide ↗Current conditions ↗

Check the official NPS guide for current access, fees, passes, reservations and permits. Gateway names identify useful surrounding communities or access areas, not exact entrance directions. Photographs may show earlier seasons or conditions.