Hike High Dune at Great Sand Dunes National Park
Mosca, Colorado
Details
Distance
2.5 miles
Elevation Gain
700 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Justin Ritucci
Explore Colorado's most unique landscape and photograph North America's tallest sand dunes. Slide down the massive dunes on a sand board or sled and then cool off in the Medano Creek, right at the base of the dunes.
The Great Sand Dunes are one the most unique landscapes in Colorado. These massive dunes are the tallest sand dunes in North America. Hiking these dunes can be very difficult, but well worth the amazing views of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. If you plan on visiting in the summer, be sure to wear closed footwear. The sand can get up to 140 °F in the summer months.
Be sure to bring a sled or rent a sand board at the Oasis shop right before the park entrance. The dunes can be very fun to sled down. It slides best when it is a little bit wet right after it rains. After hiking the dunes be sure to cool down in the Medano Creek, right at the base of the dunes.
Park at the lot just beyond the visitor center and you'll be able to see High Dune. It looks like the tallest dune, although it actually is not. There's no "trail" but you can easily wind and zig sag your way across the ridges to reach it. Cross the creek from the parking lot and find your way there.
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Hike High Dune at Great Sand Dunes National Park Reviews
Seconding comment about not realizing the immense beauty until you're at the base looking up. But definitely work your way up-- two steps up one slide down at a time. The views from the top peak over the dune valley are amazing. The juxtaposing sand dunes against snow capped mountains are breath taking. Soft sand. Warm rays. And a cool creek to splash in after summit. Bring a beer to crack at the top and double check for sand critters that like to crawl into your pack or socks-- though some even climb shoeless.
5.0
I'm not gonna lie, rolling up to the dunes I was a little disappointed. From a distance it doesn't look like much. But once I got out into the park and onto the dunes it was incredible. Such a cool spot to check out
5.0
At 700ft tall, High Dune is the second tallest dune in Great Sand Dunes National Park. It takes about three hours to hike to the top and back, depending on your fitness level and how well acclimated to high altitude you are. Every step forward is also a half-step back in soft, steep sand. There are no marked trails, so you'll have to eyeball your route. Here's the easiest way to get to the top. Park in the lot adjacent to the dune field. Cross over the flat portion of the sand and as you approach the base of the dunes, look for the highest peak visible. That's the top of High Dune. Stay to the right of the first major depression in the sand. Climb to the top of the peak about mid-way up the dune. Follow the ridge that curves to the right, then back over to the left all the way to the top of the dune. If you get out there early enough, you'll have the dune and surrounding 360-degree view of the entire dune field to yourself. You'll quickly forgot how much work it was getting up there once you check out this view. Plus, getting down is much faster and much more fun.
5.0
Leave No Trace
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Nearby
Sand Dunes Loop Trail
Mosca Pass Trail, Great Sand Dunes NP
Sandboard in Great Sand Dunes National Park
Backpack the Great Sand Dunes
Hike to Star Dune
Mount Lindsey (CLOSED)
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