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Beautiful view driving toward the dunes! I came during November and found out the camping season is over, but nearby parks offer camping with amenities. The restroom in the visitor center was clean. Parking was close to dunes entry way. There are restrooms and changing areas near the dunes parking to clean yourself after the sand. I wore hiking shoes and found myself removing my shoes and walking with only socks instead. Next time I will plan better for walking in sand. I also carried a backpack with snacks and drinks as the dunes are challenging to walk up, but the views and experience is worth it. Plenty of families brought sleds or toboggans but you should take into account carrying it up with you. If you are a Veteran, bring your ID as we receive a parks pass to allow your visit to be free for you and anyone in your vehicle.
Absolutely gorgeous! It's very tiresome, but that's to be expected. I wouldn't recommend renting a sled in the winter, seeing as you have to pay extra if it touches snow. That said, there is nothing more exciting than flying down these hills. Keep me mind, it is almost impossible to leave here without you and all your friends covered in sand! I can't wait to go again with my camera if I can it's absolutely beautiful! I also love the visitors center. It has a good gift shop and an amazing view. You also learn a lot about how they were formed and the significance to other cultures. 10/10 recommend
Drove from SW Iowa to Great Sand Dunes National Park. Oh what a beautiful drive in the fall. When we reached the park there was an unexpected surprise a waterfall park down the road (separate from the park). Now on to the sand dunes! OMG the beauty of the sand swept dunes against the mountain is just beautiful. In addition we were lucky the tree colors were so brilliant yellow/gold. You can climb the sand dunes, which takes some endurance and is messy with sand on you. If you're into pictures there are so many photo ops around the park. Admission is $25 per car. Bring your own snack and drinks, minimal items available on site.
This is one of my family’s favorite National parks!
It seems like it should not exist but it does. It is not a very big park but there is way more sand than you can walk through. The dunes are crazy high!
I would highly recommend renting the sand sleds and sand boards. It is super fun to ride down the dunes. Do NOT use snow equipment. It will not work at all.
We have gone in every season but winter and it is enjoyable anytime.
I know what you are thinking. “Ugh, sand will get everywhere.” That is actually not the case. This sand is all from wind erosion and not water. The sand is so clean and feels so good on your toes. It brushes off pretty easily too.
This park is worthy of one (or more) visits if you can swing it.
A National Park gem! You can hike the sand dunes themselves or go on one of the trails at a distance. Pets are not supposed to be on the dunes, but are welcome on the other trails. You can rent sand boards and sleds at locations outside the park. We saw some wildlife on our visit as well. Restrooms are available at the visitor center.
