Great Sand Dunes National forest is known for its towering hills of sand. Some dunes stand hundreds of feet in the air, like a beach for giants (with no ocean). Despite being close to the Denver location, Great Sand Dunes gets simply a fraction of the visitors that Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park sees annual.
However, Great Sand Dunes has much to provide. It’s an incredible location to get outdoors, and it’s not just people who enjoy it; pet dogs enjoy it too.
Here are some things to understand about Great Sand Dunes National forest that might help you plan your go to.
1. Great Sand Dunes National Park Is Dog-Friendly
Many national forests are not dog-friendly, however that’s not always true at Great Sand Dunes. While big parts of the park are off limitations to your four-legged pal, there are still plenty of spots where you can bring a pet dog. These areas consist of the primary use part of Piñon Flats Camping Area, Dunes Overlook Trail, Mosca Pass Path, and the Medano Pass Primitive Trail. Canines need to remain on the path and be leashed at all times.
The park sits beside Excellent Sand Dunes National Preserve, which is sort of an extension of the national park. Dogs are allowed all over in the national preserve. Simply make certain to tidy up after your family pet.
2. The Dunes Truly Are Excellent (and Huge)
It’s hard to envision how big the dunes are up until you’re there face to face. Star and Hidden Dunes are the biggest dunes, which both reach 741 feet. Visitors won’t find specific routes in the dune area, however do not let that stop you from summiting these sandy monsters. At the top, you can find terrific views.
Bring a dish or a sled to ride back down the giant dunes. Similar to White Sands National Forest, you don’t need snow to take pleasure in an enjoyable day sledding the dunes. For those more daring, you can even try sandboarding.
3. There’s More Than Simply Piles of Sand
If your concern is that you’ll be bored after taking a look at the dunes, there’s plenty more to do in the park. Backcountry treking and camping are terrific ways to check out the surrounding area, where you’ll find forested routes. You can likewise climb up Mount Herard, which stands at more than 13,000 feet in elevation. The summit includes exceptional views of the dune field. In the warmer months, the park is a popular destination for Medano Creek. Individuals can swim and pitch in the water to cool down from the summertime heat.
4. Go on a 4 × 4 Drive Adventure Fantastic Sand Dunes
National Park includes many miles of off-road tracks for Jeeps and other 4 × 4 cars. Fortunately, there are a great deal of close-by guides and rental companies to assist get you into the backcountry, if you do not want to do it alone or don’t have the equipment. Working with a guide will permit you to see the sights and escape the crowds with a professional who knows his or her method around the park.
5. You Can Check Out the Close-by Town of Alamosa, Colorado
The entrance town of Alamosa has plenty to check out after a long day of climbing up sand hills. From ice-cream areas to local dining establishments and breweries, Alamosa is an excellent place to sit back and unwind. There are likewise shops, art galleries, and a close-by roadside attraction of an alien watchtower for fun star gazing (and maybe even spotting a UFO).