Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

The high dune on the first ridge is neither the highest in elevation nor the tallest in the park, but it looks that way from the main parking lot. Discover this 4.8-km out-and-back trail near Gardner, Colorado. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 26 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, camping, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.

Medano Creek is often referred to as Colorado’s Natural beach, as it forms at the foot of the Great Sand Dunes and creates an incredibly fun venue for visitors to splash around, picnic, and sometimes even float down in rafts. Since the river is fed by the surrounding mountain's snowpack, the best time to enjoy the river is typically spring and early summer.

Explore this 10.8-km out-and-back trail near Gardner, Colorado. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 37 min to complete. This trail is great for camping, hiking, and trail running.

Pinon Flats Campground is located in Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve in southern Colorado. The huge dunes are the tallest in North America and comprise about 11 percent of an enormous sand deposit that covers more than 330 square miles. The park is perfect for kids, who love exploring the dunefield on foot or by sled. Medano Creek, at the base of the dunes, is a popular place in the summertime.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is an American national park that conserves an area of large sand dunes up to 750 feet. Its sandbox of epic proportions, the entire dune field encompasses 30 square miles and the tallest dune towers 750 feet high. Aside from the dunes, you'll find picnicking, hiking and camping opportunities, the challenging four-wheel scenic drive on Medano Pass, horseback-riding trails, the mysteriously appearing and disappearing Medano Creek.

Mount Herard is the highest peak in Saguache County, Colorado. The mountain is part of the Sangre de Cristo Range, which runs along the eastern edge of the county. Mount Herard rises to an elevation of 12,966 feet. The peak is located in the San Isabel National Forest and is accessible via a number of hiking trails. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot bighorn sheep, elk, and other animals while hiking in the area.