大沙丘国家公园和保护区

One of the best kept secrets in Colorado.
Mountains surrounding sand dunes with a stream in certain spring months.
Don’t forget the small towns along the ways, and make a loop back to denver the opposite direction that you came.

It is an amazing location, you visit the visitor center to learn about the area and check out the gift shop, out into the sands a major hike especially if you aren't used to altitude, to the stream that pulses and even up into the nearby mountains. Also the night sky is amazing to see, though plan around the moon for the best experience.

The Great Sand Dunes are beautiful, interesting and so much fun!

Amazing. Glad we went when it was still a bit cold, although I wouldn’t go in the winter. The weather changes quickly here.

The climb can be challenging. I share some experience in the video here (full on my IG).

Don’t make my mistake and get some proper hiking boots, if you gonna hike this thing for a while. That sand is getting everywhere for sure and it will be a challenge to get rid of it. Especially if sliding down those slopes.

Also, make sure to check the weather in advance and dress appropriately. I saw way too many people walking a bit only to realize they were risking freezing to death with the high winds and a snow cloud that suddenly came down the mountains.

It’s quite epic really and words cannot truly describe it. Be prepared to do some serious cardio and be out of breath. It’s high altitude so make sure you are in good enough condition to take in the challenge.

It is both difficult in the heart and the muscles as the feet tend to sink in under each step, especially during warmer months and if it hasn’t rained recently, making the climb more difficult.

It's out of the way for some of us, but if your traveling thru southern Colorado, it's worth your time to stop.