The best walks and hikes in Great Sand Dunes National Park

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. The Medano Creek – High Dune loop from High Dune is a popular choice, offering a taste of the dunes without a major commitment. For a different experience away from the sand, the short, forested Montville Nature Trail is an easy interpretive loop that provides shade and is great for kids.

The time varies greatly depending on which dune you choose. A hike to the top of High Dune, the most prominent dune from the main parking area, typically takes about two hours for a round trip. Reaching Star Dune, the tallest in North America, is a much more strenuous all-day trek, often taking six hours or more.

No, there are no designated or maintained trails on the 30-square-mile dunefield. You are free to choose your own path and explore. This offers a unique sense of adventure but also means you should be prepared with good navigation skills, especially if you venture far from the main visitor areas.

Dressing in layers is key. The sand can get very hot in the summer, so closed-toe shoes are recommended over sandals. In the spring and fall, conditions can change quickly, so bring warm layers and wind protection.

For any hike, essentials include: sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun's reflection off the sand is intense. Always carry plenty of water.

While the main park area is known for dunes, the nearby Zapata Falls is a popular hike. The trail leads to a waterfall that has carved a crevice in the rock. Be prepared for a cool experience, as you'll often need to wade through the chilly creek to see the main falls inside the cavern. In winter, the falls freeze into a giant ice column.

For a moderate hike that takes you into the mountains bordering the dunes, the Mosca Pass Trail is an excellent choice. This trail follows a forested creek into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering a complete change of scenery from the dunefield.

Yes, backpacking is a fantastic way to experience the park. You can obtain a free permit from the Visitor Center to camp in the main dunefield, which allows for incredible stargazing. For more traditional camping, the Piñon Flats Campground is available. For a long-distance backcountry trek, the Sand Ramp Trail follows the eastern edge of the dunefield.

Absolutely. The park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, meaning it has some of the darkest skies in the country. On clear, moonless nights, the stargazing is spectacular. You can see countless stars and the Milky Way. Many visitors enjoy short hikes onto the dunes after sunset for an unobstructed view of the night sky.

The park is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the unique experience of hiking on the massive dunes and the stunning contrast between the sand and the surrounding Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The freedom to explore without set trails is a commonly mentioned highlight.

Dogs are allowed in certain areas of the park and preserve, including the main use area of the dunefield up to the first high ridge. They are also permitted on the Piñon Flats Campground, Dunes Overlook Trail, and Medano Pass Primitive Road. However, they are not allowed in the backcountry. Remember that the sand can get extremely hot, so check the surface temperature before walking your dog.

Medano Creek is a seasonal stream that flows at the base of the dunes. It's famous for its 'surge flow,' where waves of water pulse across the sand. The creek typically flows from late spring to early summer, with peak flow usually in late May or early June. It's a popular spot for wading and cooling off after a hike on the dunes.

While the main dunefield has no set trails, there are over 15 designated routes in the surrounding park and preserve. These range from easy nature walks like the Wellington Ditch and Overlook Trails to strenuous alpine climbs, offering a wide variety of hiking experiences beyond the sand.