The Ultimate Guide to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve — Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve features diverse ecosystems, including lakes, mountains, forests, grasslands, and the tallest sand dunes in North America. Each year, nearly 500,000 visitors come to visit Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve to explore these mesmerizing dunes and the other ecosystems of the park.

How To Get to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Where Is Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve?

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is in Colorado in the San Luis Valley near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This national park and preserve stretches over approximately 150,000 acres or 604 square miles of sandy dunes, grasslands, forests, and other ecosystems. This splendid park is one of the top tourist attractions in the state of Colorado and has miles and miles of adventure to be discovered.

Nearest Airports to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

There are several airport options if you choose to fly to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. The most commonly used airports range from small airports to major ones.

Colorado Springs Airport (COS)

Colorado Springs Airport is the closest large airport to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. It is about a 3.5-hour drive from this airport to the park entrance.

This airport offers flights to and from many U.S. cities, including Atlanta, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City. Several major airlines service this airport, including Avelo, Delta, Southwest, Sun Country, and United.

Denver International Airport (DEN)

Denver International Airport is another option for flying into the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve area. This option is further than others and about a 4.5-hour drive from the airport to the park. Many people pick up a connecting flight to the San Luis Valley Regional Airport from this airport.

This airport provides flights to dozens of national and international locations with service from many well-known airlines, including Air Canada, Aeromexico, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, and Spirit.

Bottom Line: Flying into Denver International Airport is an excellent idea for those who don’t mind a longer drive to the park or catching a connecting flight to a nearby city.

San Luis Valley Regional Airport (ALS)

Many guests use San Luis Valley Regional Airport when flying into the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve area. This airport is conveniently located approximately 30 minutes from the park.

This airport offers daily flights to and from Denver International Airport. Denver Air exclusively services San Luis Valley Regional Airport. This is an excellent option for those who choose to fly out of Denver.

Driving to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

A national park road trip always creates lasting memories, and there is no exception when driving to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

The main park area is accessed by taking Highway 150 from the south or County Road 6 if arriving from the west. Visitors from the south will use I-25 to access Highway 150, and those from the north will access US 285 from I-25 to Alamosa and then access Highway 150.

Taking the Bus to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

For those who prefer to let someone else do the bulk of the traveling, a good option may be to take a Greyhound Bus.

While there isn’t a bus station right near the park, there is one that isn’t too far from the park. The closest Greyhound station to Great Sand Dunes National Park is the Denver station, approximately 3.5 hours from the park’s entrance. Rental cars are available in Denver for making the drive to the park.

Greyhound is an excellent way to sit back and enjoy the journey without the stress and worry of driving yourself.

Getting Around Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

The best way to explore most of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is by private vehicle. Many roads can be driven on that lead to different park areas.

As for the sand dunes themselves, motor vehicles of any kind are prohibited. For help planning your trip, the National Park Service has provided different types of maps on its website for navigating Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

What To See and Do in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

The possibility for adventure and excitement is endless at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. From off-roading to hiking and from sand sledding to hunting, there’s no shortage of activity at this national park. Explore some top-rated activities for visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Commercial Tours and Jeep Rentals

Several companies offer Jeep tours and rentals at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Touring Medano Pass Primitive Road in a Jeep is an experience like no other. Visitors can enjoy the backcountry road and traverse the soft sand and muddy creek crossings. This is a top-ranked activity for those who love thrilling adventures.

Hiking

There are many hiking opportunities at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. This national park offers hikes ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous, so there is something for every age and ability. Hikers can choose from hiking across the dunes, through the forests, and along the lakes.

Most of the land at Great Sands National Park and Preserve is designated wilderness. Day hikes and overnight backpacking trips offer exceptional views of the Great Sand Dunes area. Most visitors recommend the High Dune Trail. Other top trails include the Montville Nature Trail, the Mosca Pass Trail, and the Dunes Trail from Pinyon Flats.

Bottom Line: Hiking the diverse ecosystems of Great Sands National Park and Preserve is one of the best ways to get an up close and personal look at the land, wildlife, and scenery.

Hunting in National Preserve

Hunting is not permitted in Great Sand Dunes National Park, but it is allowed in Great Sand Dunes Preserve during specific seasons. If you are a licensed hunter, there are several areas in the preserve for hunting. Visitors can hunt on their own or choose a guided hunting option. Some game that can be hunted in this national preserve includes mountain lions, elk, mule deer, turkey, bighorn sheep, and bear.

Photography

Each season at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve brings terrific opportunities for photography. The images that can be captured at this national park are stunning at various times during the year.

From the vibrant colors in the fall to the park blanketed in the winter’s glistening snow to the night skies, there are spectacular photo opportunities everywhere you look. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a photographer’s paradise.

Sandboarding and Sand Sledding

Sandboarding and sand sledding are the top activities that draw tourists to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. These activities can be enjoyed anywhere in the dune field if you are not close to vegetated areas. Small slopes are great for young children, and longer slopes near the high ridge of the dunes are excellent for teens and adults.

These sand activities can be enjoyed most times during the year, including the spring, summer, and fall. If you plan to enjoy this activity during the summer, it’s essential to prepare to hit the dunes early in the morning or evening to avoid the extreme temperatures of the sand.

Visitors must bring their sand sleds and sandboards to the park as there are no places to rent or purchase this gear on the park’s property. This is an exciting way to experience Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Best Times To Visit Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a fantastic park to visit, no matter when you decide to come. If you are hoping to visit for a particular reason, activity, or event, there are better times than others to plan a trip.

Best Time To Visit Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in Winter

Winter is an exciting time to visit Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Plenty of activities are available during winter, including cross-country skiing, sledding down the dunes, and snowshoeing. February is the best month for a winter visit to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. There is still plenty of snow to enjoy in February, but the temperatures are slightly higher and more comfortable.

Best Time To Visit Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve To Avoid the Crowds

For a less crowded Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve experience, one of the slowest months for visitation is February. This is the perfect month for experiencing this park without worrying about long lines and congested areas.

Bottom Line: A February visit will allow for lots of winter adventure, slightly warmer winter temperatures, and fewer crowds.

Best Time To Visit Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve for Fall Colors

October is the best month to visit to enjoy the fall colors. The aspens are at their peak vibrance in October, showcasing their bright golden color. With the brightly colored leaves and crisp temperatures, October is the perfect month for visitors who appreciate the stunning autumn season.

Cheapest Time To Visit Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Winter, from December to March, is the best time to visit Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve to save money while traveling. March is the best month to visit this national park for saving cash.

While this is still considered a winter month, glimpses of spring can be found everywhere. Since this is a colder, off-season month, the prices for accommodations and flights are lower. Saving on flight tickets and lodging adds up and allows for significant savings while traveling to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Annual Events in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve hosts a variety of programs and events throughout the year. From stargazing and astronomy events to culture and art celebrations, there is an event for everyone at this national park. Check out some of the top events that take place in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Annual Christmas Bird Count

Each year in December, bird enthusiasts are invited to Great Sands National Park and Preserve for the Annual Christmas Bird Count. Birders of all skill levels are encouraged to participate in this event. Volunteers work with the Audobon Society to count and record the bird species in the park. This magical event brings lots of joy to those who love nature.

Annual Sand Robotics Challenge

NASA and Adams State University sponsor the Annual Sand Robotics Challenge each year in April. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is the perfect location for this event, representing a Mars mission. This event is where young scientists can visit the park and learn about electronics, programming, and operating on rugged terrain.

Dark Sky Celebration

Each year in August, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve hosts the dark sky celebration. This event features guest presenters from various associations, including the International Dark Sky Association. Visitors from around the country come to this event to learn more about the night sky and the wildlife that inhabits it. This event is a great time for tourists to see spectacular objects in the sky, such as constellations and planets.

Junior Ranger Day

Junior Ranger Day is an event that takes place each year in August. This event is specifically for children and is sponsored by Friends of the Dunes.

This event has a variety of stations set up where kids can participate in hands-on learning activities about dunes, fossils, wildlife, and artifacts. Youth participating in this event can earn prizes once they complete different activities.

National Public Lands Day

National Public Lands Day is an event that was established in 1994 for parks and the National Park Service. This annual event takes place every year in September. Visitors to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve can visit the park without any fees. This is an excellent time to explore this park without worrying about an entry fee.

Where To Stay in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is an exceptional location for vacation. One of the first things to plan is where to lodge. This national park has a variety of options both inside and near the park. Whether you decide to camp, stay in a lodge, or at a ranch, you will find outstanding accommodations in the Great Sand Dunes area.

Inside the Park

There are several options for lodging inside Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Whether you prefer a traditional lodge, rustic cabins, or campgrounds, you can find the perfect accommodations for your vacation.

Camping

Several options exist for visitors who want to sleep under the stars at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Whether you plan to set up camp in a developed campground or the backcountry, there are plenty of options for sleeping in the great outdoors.

Pinon Flats Campground is located a mile north of the visitor center. This campground is open from April to October. There are 91 sites at this campground that accommodate both tents and RVs. Reservations are needed for this campground. 

Backcountry camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a thrilling experience. There are 7 designated sites along Sand Ramp Trail and 20 non-designated sites in the backcountry. A permit must be obtained for those who want to experience this primitive-style camping. The most popular area is Dunes Backcountry. Other areas for backcountry camping include Buck Creek, Sand Creek, and Escape Dunes.

Experiencing Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is always a treat, but camping adds a unique element to your national park vacation.

Great Sand Dunes Lodge

Great Sand Dunes Lodge is a contemporary lodge located right at the entrance of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. This lodge has comfortable rooms and spectacular views and is in close proximity to many recreational activities.

This lodge is nested in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, on the Front Range, with gorgeous pine trees surrounding it. There are 4 types of rooms for guests to choose from: standard, deluxe, deluxe plus, and a deluxe plus room with a kitchen. This is the perfect place to rest up for your next park adventures.

Great Sand Dunes Lodge has an excellent location for photography, hiking, cycling, and stargazing. There’s also a great outdoor grill area for those who want to light the grill for a barbecue.

Each morning the Great Sand Dunes Lodge staff offers a continental breakfast so you can start your day well-fueled. There are many exciting areas to explore near the lodge, including Zapata Falls, hot springs for soaking and relaxing, and several lakes.

If you are looking for a home away from home during your Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve vacation, Great Sand Dunes Lodge has all you are looking for.

Oasis Camping Cabins

Oasis Camping Cabins are located south of the entrance to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. This accommodation option features primitive cabins to taste what life was like in the good old days.

The cabins at Oasis are open from the beginning of April to the end of October. They are rustically built log cabins. These cabins do not have access to water. There is a shower facility, a restaurant, and a store in the Oasis Camping area for dining, shopping, and hygiene needs.

If you are looking for a primitive experience in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Oasis Camping Cabins would be a perfect fit for you.

Oasis Duplex Motel

The Oasis Duplex Motel is in the grassland of the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. This motel is a ranch-style facility with amazing views of the dunes and the mountains. 

Guests will find a small area near the Oasis Duplex Motel with dining and shopping options. Oasis Duplex Motel is an excellent choice for a simple, comfortable stay while visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Zapata Ranch

Zapata Ranch is a historic ranch a few miles south of the park’s main entrance. This ranch combines stellar accommodations with exciting activities for an experience of a lifetime. 

The historic lodge, initially built in the 1800s, features 17 rooms. These rooms are styled in an elegance that meets southwest fashion. The rooms are peaceful and calm, giving a relaxed ambiance for guests to reset from their park excursions. The dining scene at Zapata Ranch is incredible. The chef uses local produce and meats to create a unique culinary experience that won’t easily be forgotten.

Zapata Ranch is composed of a 50,000-acre pasture that is home to a conservation herd of bison and a herd of Angus mother cows. Visitors at Zapata Ranch can ride horses among the bison, hike the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and work with the ranch hands to experience the work of running a ranch. For a one-of-a-kind experience and stay, lodge at Zapata Ranch when visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Towns Near Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Many towns near Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve make great options for a home base for those who prefer staying near the park. Most of these towns are within a 30-minute drive from the park’s entrance.

Alamosa, Colorado

Alamosa is 38 miles southwest of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve’s visitor center. This town has many options for lodging, dining, and proximity to many sights and attractions. The town has dozens of options for accommodations, including standard hotels and motels, luxury resorts, charming bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, and RV parks. 

Alamosa is well known for authentic cultural dining as well as affordability. This city has over 50 restaurants ranging from coffee shops to fast food to fine dining at gourmet restaurants. Many of the restaurants in this city are locally owned and proudly serve fresh produce and meats from the area.

This city is excellent for setting up a home base near dozens of attractions during your Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve vacation. Whether you prefer exploring natural attractions like the park, wildlife refuges, or hot springs, or if you choose to learn about Alamosa’s arts and cultural scene, you can find exactly what you are looking for in Alamosa.

Bottom Line: Alamosa is ideal for guests who want a good mixture of relaxation and recreation during their vacation at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Crestone, Colorado

Crestone is located 54 miles from Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. This is a former mining town east of the Sangro de Cristo Mountain Range. While it is a bit further away than some other towns, it is well worth the drive.

There aren’t any traditional hotels or motels in Crestone, but bed and breakfasts, inns, lodges, and homes are abundant. While there are only a few restaurants in Crestone, the options for dining are superb. Crestone’s restaurants are highly rated and have impressive menus of unique dishes.

There are several points of interest in and near Crestone for guests to enjoy during their stay. From wildlife refuges, artisan galleries, and cafes with live music. Crestone is an excellent option for setting up a home base during their Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve trip.

Mosca, Colorado

Mosca was originally settled in the 1800s by pioneers. Today, Mosca is a small community with incredible views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This charming town is just 19 miles from Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

The town has a lovely glamping resort with incredible amenities that brings many visitors from all around.  It also has historic buildings, many outdoor recreational opportunities, and activities for guests of all ages.

Where To Eat In and Near Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

There is only 1 restaurant in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, and many other options within a short distance from the park. No matter what you are craving, you can rest assured that you will find something unique in this area of Colorado.

Oasis Restaurant and Store

Oasis Restaurant and Store is the only restaurant located in the park. This restaurant is located right near the entrance of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

This casual diner features home-cooked classics. The dining room is rustic, decorated with antiques, and has enormous windows so guests can enjoy spectacular views with their delicious meals. Before returning to your adventures, grab a slice of homemade pie or a scoop of ice cream for a special treat.

Bottom Line: Oasis Restaurant and Store is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is an excellent option for those who don’t want to leave the park for a bite to eat.

Our Food is Art

Our Food is Art is a notorious restaurant just down the road from Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in the small town of Crestone. This incredible restaurant is open Wednesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Guests rave about their wide selection of vegetarian dishes. Our Food is Art serves an extensive menu featuring juicy burgers, fresh seafood dishes, top-quality sirloins, and barbecue ribs. They also have a wide selection of authentic Mexican, Thai, and Cajun dishes.

As you can see, there’s something for everyone at Our Food is Art. Enjoy a meal at this top-ranked restaurant when visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

T-Road Brewing Company

T-Road Brewing Company is a brewery and pub near Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in Crestone. This restaurant is a perfect mixture of great food, drinks, and live music.

There is a relaxed atmosphere where diners can eat indoors or on the patio, enjoy a delicious meal, and watch the sunset behind the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The restaurant is a mesh of a 1960s piano bar and a local art gallery, so there is plenty of entertainment while visiting. 

This restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily, with brunch on Sundays. The menu at T-Road Brewing Company features wood-fired pizzas, diner-style burgers, and specialty tacos. Customer favorites include the curry chicken taco, double cheeseburger, biscuits, and gravy.

Various brews are featured on a rotating schedule. Fine wines, specialty drinks, and top-shelf liquors are also on their drink menu. For fantastic food and a great time, be sure to add T-Road Brewing Company to the itinerary when visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve Facts

1. Finally, an Established National Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of America’s most newly established national parks, but efforts to establish this land as a national park took place for over 70 years prior. The park was initially declared Great Sand Dunes National Monument by President Herbert Hoover on March 17th, 1932. It wasn’t until 2004 that Congress redesignated the area as an official national park.

2. Largest Dunes in North America

The dunes in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve are the largest in North America. The tallest dune in the park is Star Dune, which rises over 750 feet from the base to its crest. High Dune is another large dune rising 699 feet from its base. These incredible dunes are truly a sight to behold.

3. Formed by Water, Wind, and Sediment

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve dunes were formed by a combination of wind, water, and sediment. The creeks and streams brought large quantities of sand and sediment into the area, and the wind blew this sediment toward the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Strong, opposing storm winds helped form the sand dunes we see today.

4. International Dark Sky Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is an International Dark Sky Park. This park received this certification in 2019. Because of this park’s phenomenal dark skies, planets, constellations, and more can be seen.

The park hosts many events throughout the year to teach visitors about the objects in the sky as well as the wildlife that inhabits the sky. The park also works diligently to educate park guests about light pollution and how to preserve the night sky.

5. Fossils of Mammoth Size

Many fossils from prehistoric times have been found in the Great Sands National Park and Preserve. One of the most incredible fossils is a Columbian mammoth tooth that is the size of a human head.

6. Singing Sand?

Tourists often talk about the singing sand at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. There are sands that make an audible vibration due to avalanches moving down the dunes. This phenomenon is an exciting sight and sound to experience at the park.

7. A Park of Diverse Ecosystems

Several different types of ecosystems are found in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Some of these ecosystems include the alpine tundra, grasslands, shrublands, and wetlands. Because of this diversity, there is plenty to discover and explore during a visit to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

8. Surge Flow Fun

Medano Creek is a fantastic place to visit at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. This creek begins as snowfields, melts into a lake, and flows over the dunes. Underwater sand ridges create surge flows, making it a fun place for visitors of all ages to splash in the waves. This mysterious phenomenon is a big draw to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve visitors.

9. Indigenous People

Many people inhabited the area of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, but some of the original inhabitants were Native American tribes. It is believed that over 19 Native American tribes have made their home in this park, including the Navajo and the Apache tribes. The park does an excellent job of keeping the culture alive and sharing this part of Colorado’s incredible history and culture.

10. An Abundance of Animals

There is an abundance of animals who make their home in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Because of the diverse ecosystems, a wide variety of animals can be found in the park. Some of the most remarkable animals that can be spotted here include pikas, marmots, bighorn sheep, water shrews, badgers, and bison. No matter which area of the park you explore, you can rest assured that you will see an array of exciting animals.

11. Scorching Sand

While the high temperatures during the summer typically average between 75 to 80 degrees, the temperature of the sand can reach up to 150 degrees. This can be rather dangerous when sand sledding and sandboarding, so it is essential to plan to do these activities during the morning or evening hours.

12. Ancient Relics from the Stone Ages

Many types of artifacts have been found in Great Sand Dunes National Park, which gives clues to the history and culture of the park. It is believed that the first people to enter this area of Colorado were nomadic hunters and gatherers who followed herds of mammoths and bison that grazed in the area.

Clovis and Folsom points have been found in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. These tools were likely used when hunting these large animals. It is believed that the original people who used these tools were people from the Stone Age.

Final Thoughts

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a remarkable experience for adventurers who love to explore and discover the beauty of nature. From massive dunes to majestic mountains to gorgeous sunsets and unique wildlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this national park and preserve. Book your trip to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve and discover the adventure awaiting you.