Last Updated on 13 February, 2026 by Robyn Dockendorf

Imagine looking out on dunes that tower over 700 feet in the air, jagged snow-capped mountains rising behind them like great spines erupting from the ground. You’ll find all of this at Great Sand Dunes National Park, and there’s so much to explore within the park’s boundary!

Some adventurous things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park include sandboarding, hiking the dunes, going 4-wheeling on primitive roads, and spending the night in a dark sky destination where you can see the Milky Way spread across the endless openness above.

Ready to explore your National Park itinerary? This article gives you all the details about how to make the most of your trip to Great Sand Dunes National Park. Let’s go!

This post includes affiliate links, but rest assured that we only recommend items we would use ourselves. If you choose to make a purchase, we receive a small commission at no extra charge to you. There are no sponsorships; this is just the truth about our favorite finds.

1. Sandboarding and Sand Sledding

If you’ve been snowboarding or sledding before, then you probably know how exhilarating it is to fly down a hill at top speed, cold wind nipping at your face. Now, imagine that same fuzzy feeling, but on sand instead of snow! 

Sandboarding and sand sledding are two of the best things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park. Sandboards and sleds are specifically designed for sliding on sand. They’re made with a slick bottom using specialized wax. Regular snowboards and sleds will not work, so ensure you get the right equipment for the best time!

Sandboarding and sledding are allowed anywhere in the dunefield except on and near vegetation. Running over vegetation with a board or sled damages the fragile ecosystem, so please choose an area without vegetation.

How To Get A Sandboard or Sled

Great Sand Dunes National Park does not sell or rent sandboards or sleds. Instead, you’ll have to buy or rent them before arriving at the park. Luckily, several locations offer purchase or rental options of the necessary gear to shred the slopes at Great Sand Dunes.

Here are the closest purchase/rental stores near Great Sand Dunes National Park:

• Great Dunes Oasis (3.6 miles from Visitor Center)
  • Address: 7800 CO-150, Mosca, CO 81146
  • Phone Number: 719-378-2222
  • Rental Price: $20 per day
  • Season: Spring through Fall
• Dune Valley Distillery (23 miles from Visitor Center)
  • Address: 5301 Terry St, Mosca, CO 81146
  • Phone Number: 719-206-3356
  • Rental Price: $20 per day
  • Season: Open year-round, but limited hours in the off-season
• Spin Drift Sandboard Rentals (25 miles from Visitor Center)
  • Address: 616 Main St, Blanca, CO 81123
  • Phone Number: 719-379-4410
  • Rental Price: $20 per day
  • Season: Spring through Fall
• Sand Dunes Recreation (32 miles from Visitor Center)
  • Address: 1991 Co Rd 63, Hooper, CO 81136
  • Phone Number: 719-378-2807
  • Rental Price: $19 per day
  • Season: Open year-round, but limited hours in the winter (December 01 – February 28)
• Kristi Mountain Sports (36 miles from Visitor Center)
  • Address: 3223 Main St, Alamosa, CO 81101
  • Phone Number: 719-589-9759
  • Rental Price: $20 per day
  • Season: Open year-round

Tips For Sandboarding and Sandsledding

For the best sandboarding/sledding experience at Great Sand Dunes, follow these tips and tricks:

• Use Wax: When renting a sandboard or sled, the rental company usually includes wax with the board. When properly applied, wax helps make the ride smoother, with less friction between the board/sled and sand.
• Find the Right Dune: Sandboarding and sledding are allowed anywhere in the dunefield away from vegetation. The National Park Service reports that it’s a minimum hike of 0.7 miles to the medium/high dunes worth riding on.
• Take Shoes Off To Board: Most sandboards are meant to be used barefoot or with socks. Wear sturdy hiking shoes to walk to the top of the dune, then take them off and hold them as you board down. If sledding, keep your shoes on.
• Pick What’s Comfortable: If you’re vacillating between a sandboard or sled, think about your experience. If you’ve never ridden a board (skate, snow, surf, etc.), grab a sled instead. Sandboarding has a big learning curve and can make your experience less enjoyable.
• Pick The Right Time: Aim to sandboard or sled in the morning or evening to avoid extremely high sand temperatures, which can reach 150℉ on a summer day. Avoid sandboarding or sledding directly after rain, as this can pack down the sand, making it painful to land on if you fall.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be shredding it up on the dunes in no time. If this isn’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other adventurous things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park!

2. Take A Hike

Hiking is one of the best things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park. There’s no better way to soak in the park’s sights, sounds, and smells! Hiking allows you to immerse yourself in the park’s beauty while taking in the views from different perspectives and angles.

There are established and unestablished trails at Great Sand Dunes, all with varying difficulty and lengths that can be matched to your specific hiking level. 

Before you head out on the trails, though, take a look at our day hiking gear checklist for everything you’ll need to conquer the trails at Great Sand Dunes National Park.

8 Trails To Explore In Great Sand Dunes National Park

Below are the trails that you can find at Great Sand Dunes. I’ve listed a bit about each trail, such as the length, elevation gain, and where the hike is located in the park. Pick what calls to you and start exploring!

1. Interpretive Loop (Dunes)

• Length: 0.4 miles
• Elevation Gain: 29 feet
• Trailhead: Starts in the Visitor Center Parking lot (N37.7326, W105.5127)

2. High Dune (Dunes)

• Length: Approximately 2.5 miles (no designated trail)
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 600 feet
• Trailhead: Start at the Dunes Parking Lot (N37.7394, W105.5172)

3. Hidden Dune (Dunes) *Tallest dune in the United States and North America!

• Length: Approximately 7 miles (no designated trail)
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 700 feet
• Trailhead (three options):
  • Main Dunes Parking Lot (longest hike): (N37.7394, W105.5172)
  • Sand Pit Picnic Area (4WD only): (N37.7622, W105.5063)
  • Castle Creek Picnic Area (4WD only): (N37.7715, W105.5072)

4. Star Dune (Dunes) *Second-tallest dune in North America!

• Length: Approximately 7 miles (no designated trail)
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 700 feet
• Trailhead: Start at the Dunes Parking Lot (N37.7394, W105.5172)

5. Montville Nature Trail (Forest)

• Length: 0.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 90 feet
• Trailhead: Start at the Mosca Pass parking lot (N37.7342, W105.5086)

6. Wellington Ditch Trail (Forest)

• Length: 2.3 miles
• Elevation Gain: 150 feet
• Trailhead: Start at the Piñon Flats Campground lot (N37.7439, W105.5037)

7. Mosca Pass Trail (Forest)

• Length: 7 miles 
• Elevation Gain: 1,407 feet
• Trailhead: Start at the Mosca Pass parking lot (N37.7342, W105.5086)

8. Dunes Overlook Trail (Forest)

• Length: 2.7 miles
• Elevation Gain: 470 feet
• Trailhead: Park in the paved lot just before the Piñon Flats Campground (N37.7438, W105.5067)

You can also hike Medano Pass Primitive Road or the Sand Ramp Trail. These are longer trails/roads (22 and 11 miles, respectively). Jeeps and other rugged vehicles use the Primitive Road to reach Medano Pass, while backpackers use the Sand Ramp Trail.

If you bring your dog to Great Sand Dunes National Park, hiking Medano Pass Primitive Road is an option, as some other trails, like the Sand Ramp Trail, are not dog-friendly. You can read more about whether Great Sand Dunes National Park is dog-friendly here.

Tips For Hiking At Great Sand Dunes National Park

Even if you’re an experienced hiker, there are certain things to consider that are specific to Great Sand Dunes National Park. Check out our tips below to ensure you’re prepared for hiking in this beautiful area!

• Elevation: The visitor center sits at 8,170′ elevation. This will be a new experience for those living at lower elevations (even if you live in Denver!). You may get out of breath more quickly or feel lightheaded while hiking. Take your time and drink plenty of water. If you feel sick, turn around.
• Hiking on Sand: Hiking on the dunes is unlike walking on the beach. It’s recommended to wear hiking shoes and high socks. Do not wear sandals or go barefoot, as sandals will chafe, and going barefoot exposes you to extreme sand temperatures during the summer.
• Thunderstorms: Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent in the summer in Colorado. Hike in the morning or evening to avoid dangerous lightning. Remember, you are the tallest conduit for lightning when on the dunes. If you hear thunder or see lightning, get off the dunes immediately.
• Hiking with Pets: Not all trails and areas are dog-friendly in the park. Check out the park’s pet policy for specifics. Dogs are generally only allowed on certain trails and up to the first high ridge of dunes in the Main Use Area. Always keep your pet leashed for their safety. Great Sand Dunes is one of the most dog-friendly National Parks! Pick up a B.A.R.K. ranger tag at the visitor center to remember your adventures!
• Sun: Being at a high elevation means you’re more exposed to the sun. Consider wearing a sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring Chapstick and plenty of water. For sunscreen, opt for an environmentally safe option like Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick to decrease your impact on the ecosystem.
• Bugs: Mosquitoes are heavy in the summer. Consider bringing bug spray if you plan to hike during peak bug season (mid-June through August). We use Murphy’s Natural Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Mosquito and Tick Repellent Spray because it’s made with safe ingredients, not DEET. Mosquitoes are not present on the dunes but are on the forested trails and in the parking lots.

These are just a few hints and tips specific to Great Sand Dunes National Park. We visited this beautiful park in mid-July, arriving around 6:30 am. It was uncrowded and gorgeous, and the weather was perfect. There were still bugs in the parking lot, but none on the actual dunes.

If you’re bringing your canine companion with you, check out our guide on the 10 best dog-friendly National Parks in the West to learn which parks roll out the red carpet for your pup!

3. Ride A Surge Wave In Medano Creek

To get to the main dune area, you must cross Medano Creek. This little water source is typically only a few inches deep in peak season and dry the rest of the year. However, surge waves will roll down the mountain during certain times, creating an oasis within the dunefield!

Since Medano Creek only flows at certain times of the year, you’ll want to plan your trip according to the expected peak flows. 

Late May and early June is the best time to visit Great Sand Dunes National Park to experience Medano Creek at peak flow.

Surge waves, created by melting snow, roll down the mountain and can be as high as two feet in the creek bed! This is one of the best things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park with kids.

The park gets extremely crowded when Medano Creek is flowing, so if you’d rather avoid the crowds, aim for a weekday. We have some more tips for avoiding the crowds at Great Sand Dunes National Park here.

Other Things To Do In Medano Creek

Surge waves happen sporadically in Medano Creek, but there are still plenty of other things to do while you wait for the waves.

• Skimboarding
• Wading
• Splashing
• Sand castle building
• Sand sculpting

At such high elevations, snow is still possible in May and June. However, temperatures are typically pleasant, and the sun is usually shining, making for perfect beach weather in the middle of Colorado!

Medano Creek can be accessed from the Main Use Area (N37.7394, W105.5172) or the Sand Pit and Castle Creek Picnic Areas. Your vehicle must be 4WD capable to get to Sand Pit (N37.7622, W105.5063) or Castle Creek (N37.7715, W105.5072).

4. Experience The Park After Dark

One of the best things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park is to experience it after dark. Dark Sky International has certified Great Sand Dunes as an International Dark Sky Park. 

So, what exactly does that mean? 

A combination of high elevation, minimal light pollution, and dry air makes Great Sand Dunes one of the darkest places in the country at night. Under the right conditions, it offers stunning views of the stars and even the Milky Way.

Let’s explore how you can experience the night sky at this National Park.

Where To Watch The Night Sky

No specific areas are designated for watching the night sky in the park. You can stargaze anywhere in Great Sand Dunes National Park. However, some places offer a more surreal experience than others.

• Parking Lots: This is a good option if you don’t want to or can’t hike anywhere after dark. No lights illuminate the park after dark, so it’s best to be parked before dark for safety. Check out the Main Use Area, Point of No Return, or the paved lot before the campground for the clearest views.
• On the Dunes (best option): To fully immerse yourself in this nighttime experience, head out onto the dunes to experience the night sky. If you’re feeling really adventurous, venture onto High Dune for otherworldly views.
• Sand Pit or Castle Creek Picnic Areas: If your vehicle is equipped with 4WD, consider heading out to Sand Pit or Castle Creek Picnic Areas to view the night sky. They’re less crowded and offer quick access to the dunes.
• Backcountry Camping Spots: With a permit, you can backpack into the National Park and stay overnight at a designated site. This is one of the best things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park if you want to experience the stunning night sky in a unique location.

When To Watch The Night Sky

To get the absolute best views of the night sky at Great Sand Dunes National Park, follow these guidelines:

• Weather: Most nights in Colorado are clear, but check the weather to ensure you aren’t attempting to see a sky full of stars when it’s predicted to be cloudy or rainy.
• Time: To get the clearest view of the night sky, wait at least 1.5 hours after sunset or view the sky at least 1.5 hours before sunrise.
• Moon Phase: On a full moon, the sun’s reflected light will wash out the stars. Plan on or near the New Moon. Alternatively, view the sky at least an hour before the moon rises or an hour after it sets.
• Season: The best season to see the Milky Way at night is summer and early fall. You can also experience it before sunrise in the Spring. Most of the Milky Way is below the horizon in winter.

What To Expect In The Park After Dark

Great Sand Dunes National Park is open 24 hours a day, so don’t worry about needing to be in or out at a specific time. However, the visitor center closes at 5 pm in peak season and 4:30 pm in the off-season.

Here are some things to know while experiencing Great Sand Dunes National Park after dark.

• Headlights: When parked in the lot, turn your headlights off so others can enjoy the night sky.
• Flashlights: Use flashlights as minimally as possible to avoid ruining your (and others’) night vision. Use a flashlight like PD25R Rechargeable Flashlight. It still lights your path but will not ruin your night vision.
• Temperature: Even in the summer, temperatures in high-elevation areas like Great Sand Dunes can drop significantly at night. Check the weather and plan accordingly.
• Wildlife: The night belongs to camel crickets, coyotes, salamanders, bobcats, black bears, mountain lions, and owls. If you see wildlife, keep a respectful distance and let them be. For further guidance, check out our article on what to do if you see a wild animal on a hike.

With these tips in mind, you’ll experience something few others ever will. Soak it in. Not just the starry sky but all the night has to offer: the whispering wind, the cadence of insects, and the primal howl of a coyote. It’s all part of the experience!

5. Camp In The Park

If you’re reading this list and realizing you want to spend more than just one day at Great Sand Dunes National Park, you’re in luck! There are multiple options for any camping style, from glamping to backpacking.

Camping is one of the best things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park if you want to explore the park for multiple days, which I highly recommend. We only spent one day at the park and regretted it later.

Here are your options for camping in and around Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Piñon Flats Campground

The most straightforward option is the Piñon Flats Campground. It can accommodate rigs up to 35 feet (limited number of sites) and allows up to eight people, two vehicles, and two tents per site.

Each site varies in size, so check the specifications before booking on recreation.gov. Not all sites can accommodate two vehicles or two tents, and there are no electric hookups at the campground.

• Number of sites: 91
  • RV (non-electric): 55 sites
  • Tent Only: 33 sites
  • Group: 3 sites
• Price
  • RV: $20/night
  • Tent: $20/night
  • Group: $65-$80/night
• Season: April 01 – October 30 (weather-dependent)
• Maximum Stay: 14 nights
• Fees
  • Change Fee: $10
  • Cancellation Fee: $10
  • Late Cancellation Fee: $10 + first night (canceling within 24 hours of reservation)
• Check-in/out: 2 pm/1 pm
• Amenities 
  • Campground: Restrooms, dishwashing sink, potable water spigots, pet-friendly, campground store, dump station (summer season only).
  • Individual Sites: Fire grate, picnic table, bear box, pet-friendly.

Reservations are required and can be made up to six months in advance. During the peak season, the campground is often completely booked.

Medano Pass Primitive Road Camping

Camping along Medano Pass is an excellent way to escape the crowds at Great Sand Dunes National Park. The road is only manageable with full-sized, high-clearance 4WD vehicles, so it doesn’t see as much traffic as the main roads or the Piñon Flats Campground.

• Number of sites: 21 designated (on a first-come, first-served basis)
• Price: Free
• Season: Medano Pass is typically open from late May through November, depending on the weather.
• Maximum Stay: 14 days
• Amenities: Fire ring, bear box, pet-friendly.

Remember to bring everything you need when dry camping, such as food, water, firewood, and other supplies. Practice Leave No Trace by packing out everything you bring in (including food scraps, toilet paper, and any garbage).

Wildlife is more prevalent in this area due to lower traffic. Store all food items and toiletries inside a locked, hard-sided vehicle or in the provided bear box. Check out our article on what to do if you see a black bear for guidance on meeting these wonderful creatures face-to-face.

Backcountry Camping In The Dunes

Another option for camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park is tent camping in the backcountry. This is the best way to experience park areas that most others never get to see. The desolate backcountry also offers better opportunities to view and hear wildlife.

A $6 permit is required to backcountry camp in the dunefield, and you must camp at least 1.5 miles from the Medano Creek bed to be in the ‘backcountry.’ This means hiking past the first ridgeline of dunes from the dunes parking lot. 

You can only acquire a pass online. Backcountry camping permits are no longer available at the park.

• Available Sites (non-designated): 20
• Number of People Per Permit: 6
• Number of Vehicles Per Permit: 2
• Maximum Stay Limit: 14 days

As with any backpacking trip, bring plenty of water, pack out everything you bring in, and check the weather beforehand. Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in the backcountry dunefield.

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Backcountry Camping On The Sand Ramp Trail

Great Sand Dunes National Park offers two backcountry camping areas: the dunes and along the Sand Ramp Trail. Like camping in the dunes, you must acquire a permit online to backcountry camp along the Sand Ramp Trail.

There is a 14-day stay limit for camping on the Sand Ramp Trail. Permits are limited to six people and two vehicles per permit. You must camp within 50 feet of the metal arrowhead post at each site. Campfires are not allowed at the Sand Ramp backcountry sites except at Sand Creek (the furthest site on the trail).

Here are a few details about the seven sites along the Sand Ramp Trail, as hiking lengths and conditions will vary. When backpacking overnight in the park, it’s recommended to park in the horse parking lot (N37.7446, W105.5072). Pets are not allowed in the Sand Ramp Trail backpacking sites.

1. Buck Creek (0.5 miles one-way): Located near the seasonally-flowing Buck Creek. This is a good option for beginners.
2. Escape Dunes (2.5 miles one-way): Surrounded by pines buried in the sand. No reliable water source. Fill water at the campground beforehand.
3. Indian Grove (4 miles one-way): A popular site near the main dunefield and Medano Creek. A privy toilet is on-site and there’s plenty of shade from cottonwood and pine trees.
4. Little Medano (5 miles one-way): Situated in a grove of ponderosa pines with Medano Creek nearby.
5. Aspen (6.8 miles one-way): This site is at 9,240 feet in elevation, making it the highest designated backcountry camping spot. It offers incredible views of the dunefields and sits in a grove of aspens. No formal trail between Little Medano and Aspen sites, so route-finding skills are necessary. This is not a good choice for beginners.
6. Cold Creek (10.1 miles one-way): This site is only for experienced backpackers, as route-finding skills are necessary, and the hike to the camping spot is rugged. 
7. Sand Creek (11.6 miles one-way): This is another site that is only for experienced backpackers and hikers. It is located on the edge of the main dunefield in a grove of cottonwood trees. A bear box is located on-site. This is the only campsite where campfires are permitted.

The first four designated sites are suitable for most backpackers. Beyond that, route-finding skills are necessary, so only experienced backpackers should choose these sites. 

Using a bearproof container like Journey Bear Canister to store food and toiletry items is highly recommended. Alternatively, hang these items in a tree in a Major Bear Sack at least 10 feet up and 5 feet from the tree trunk. 

You can find a backcountry camping map for the Sand Ramp Trail here.

6. Drive Down Medano Pass Primitive Road

Medano Pass Primitive Road is slightly over 11 miles long. It connects Great Sand Dunes National Park with Colorado State Highway 69 and the Wet Valley Mountains. It ends at Medano Pass, an elevation of 10,040′ with beautiful views.

The road is only passable in the summer months with a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle like a jeep or truck. If you have the right vehicle, this is an incredible, fun opportunity to explore a lesser-used part of the park.

Medano Pass offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially bighorn sheep. It’s also a fun way to explore the park, crossing creekbeds and driving on a rough, sandy road!

If you don’t have the proper vehicle, you can always rent one through a third party or take a tour (more on that later!).

Tips For Driving On Medano Pass Primitive Road

If you have experience 4-wheeling in your backcountry vehicle, you’ll enjoy Medano Pass. It’s fun splashing around in the creek, driving over rough terrain, and speeding through sandy parts. 

Here are a few tips for driving on Medano Pass:

• Check Medano Creek Conditions: The National Park Service (NPS) provides information on the current conditions of Medano Creek on its website. Check conditions before driving, as the road traverses across Medano Creek 9 times, and deep water levels may make the road impassable.
• Driving Season: Medano Pass is typically open from May through November, weather permitting. Check the NPS website for details on whether or not the road is open.
• Tire Pressure: The NPS recommends lowering tire pressure to 20 PSI if sand conditions are dry and soft. For rocky areas, inflate tires back to normal pressure.
• Unstable Areas: Avoid stopping your vehicle when driving over unstable, rocky areas.
• Spinning Tires: Avoid spinning your tires if you get stuck. This will only dig your tires in deeper.
• Know Your Location: Take note of any posted signs, creek crossing names, or campsite numbers. If you become stuck, this will help rangers find you quickly.
• Come Prepared: Bring everything you might need for self-recovery if you get stuck.
  • Recovery Boards like Maxtrax MKII Recovery Boards
  • Tow Strap like Rhino USA 4″ Recovery Tow Strap
  • Shovel like the Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel w/ Pick
  • D-Ring for towing, such as the Rhino USA 3/4″ D-Ring Shackle Set.
  • Pair of mechanic gloves

Plan to spend 2-3 hours traversing the 22-mile round trip to and from Medano Pass. Free camping is available on Medano Pass Road on a first-come, first-served basis.

Jeep Rentals & Tours

If your vehicle isn’t quite cut out for Medano Pass Primitive Road, you can always rent a jeep or take a jeep tour to experience all the fun.

Here are a few places near Great Sand Dunes National Park that offer jeep tours and/or rentals:

• Mountain Masters Tour Options (Book online or call 719-588-9022):
  • Great Sand Dunes National Park Medano Pass Primitive Road (3.5 hour tour)
    • 2-person ($410)
    • 3-person ($485)
    • 4-person ($555)
  • Great Sand Dunes + Zapata Falls (5.5 hour tour)
    • 2-person ($550)
    • 3-person ($640)
    • 4-person ($695)
• Custer Country Jeep Rentals (Call 719-659-8743 to reserve)
  • Single day ($290/day)
  • 2-4 days ($270/day)
  • 5 days + ($250/day)
  • Winter rate December through March ($150/day)

Prices are as of February 2026. Some of the best adventurous things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park include renting a jeep or taking a tour of Medano Pass or nearby Zapata Falls. This adrenaline-packed activity is for the truly adventurous at heart!

7. Go Fishing

Fishing is allowed in the National Park and Preserve as long as all requirements set forth by the state are met, including licensing requirements. Fishing is typically done in four main areas of the park and preserve:

• Medano Creek (Catch and Release): Fish along the Medano Pass Primitive Road, which offers easy access to Medano Creek.
• Medano Lake (Catch and Release): Follow a rough 4WD road to the parking area (N37.8509, W105.4368), then hike 3.7 miles on the Medano Lake Trail.
• Sand Creek (Catch and Keep): Located on the west side of the dune field. This area is difficult to reach, involving a 7-10 mile hike, depending on vehicle type.
• Sand Creek Lakes: This lake is north of Medano Lake. Access to it involves a strenuous hike and requires a 4WD vehicle.

Besides Medano Creek, there aren’t many easy fishing holes within the park. Note that the Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout is a protected species and is catch-and-release only.

8. Have A Picnic

Imagine having a picnic with North America’s tallest sand dunes as the backdrop, the towering Sangre de Cristo mountains looming in the background. This picturesque dream can be a reality when you pack a picnic at Great Sand Dunes!

Visitors can enjoy three picnic areas at Great Sand Dunes National Park.

The Dunes Picnic Area is easily accessible by any type of vehicle. Drive toward the Main Use Area, and you’ll find it on your left before reaching the dunes parking area. 

The Sand Pit Picnic Area can only be accessed by vehicles with high clearance and 4WD. It is located along Medano Pass Primitive Road.

Castle Creek Picnic Area is also located along Medano Pass Primitive Road and can only be accessed with high-clearance, 4WD vehicles.

9. Join A Free Ranger Program

Ranger programs are one of the best things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park to better understand the environment around you and the activities you can do in the park. These free programs typically run in the summer and fall, but may be available in the off-season upon request if staffing permits.

Ranger programs are led by highly educated park rangers and offer insight into the park’s history, ecosystem, and geology. They typically feature a video presentation followed by a constellation tour after dark.

You can ask about ranger-led programs at the visitor center for times and events. For those visiting with kids, check out Junior Ranger programs!

10. Attend A Special Event

Great Sand Dunes National Park holds special events throughout the year. Check its calendar to see when these special events take place.

For example, the Monte Vista Crane Festival typically takes place every year in March. Special events like a solar or lunar eclipse may occur within the park. Additionally, lectures on Native American culture, constellations, and more happen in the amphitheater.

Special events like these are a once-a-year opportunity to attend a unique event in a beautiful destination!

Adventurous Things To Do In Great Sand Dunes National Park: Wrap-Up Session

Great Sand Dunes National Park is among our top three favorite national parks. There are various things to do, varied terrain and ecosystems, and you can experience the park after dark.

For a recap, here are 10 adventurous things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park:

1. Sandboarding/Sand sledding
2. Take a hike
3. Ride a surge wave in Medano Creek
4. Experience the park after dark
5. Camping
6. 4-Wheeling down Medano Pass Primitive Road (highway-legal vehicles only)
7. Go fishing
8. Have a picnic
9. Join a free ranger program
10. Attend a special event

Remember that Great Sand Dunes is located in a dry, high-elevation area. Pack sunscreen, plenty of water, and bug spray in the summer.

Until next time, keep exploring this beautiful world, and if you have any furbags, give them an extra pet from us!

Check out the Dirtbags with Furbags blog for more tips on exploring national parks and trails!