The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is home to North America's tallest sand dunes which measure roughly 750 feet (228 meters) above the San Luis Valley floor. The formation of these dunes took place approximately 440,000 years ago. Sand and soil deposits from the Rio Grande River led to the formation of these dunes. Though the sand dunes are the primary attraction, the park is also home to several wildlife species including the Sandhill crane, the Great Sand Dunes beetle, and bighorn sheep which are one of its most notable inhabitants.
Nestled between Alamosa and Huerfano counties, Mosca Pass rises to a height of 9,714 feet (2,961 meters). Several plant species can be spotted here including Colorado rubber weed, bluebell bellflower, silver lupine, Parry’s oatgrass and scarlet gilia among several others. A great place for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
Akin to its name, High Dune is one of the tallest elevation in Great Sand Dunes National Park. Hike up to the top if you wish to enjoy a panoramic view of the dunes. Rising to a height of 693 feet, these dunes are a marvelous sight to behold.
The tallest dune in North America, Star Dune rises to a height of 741 feet (225 meters). This dune is easier to access as compared to the High Dune. Hikers can follow the ridge that leads up to the summit. This dune is a picture-postcard attraction and definitely warrants a visit.
The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is home to North America's tallest sand dunes which measure roughly 750 feet (228 meters) above the San Luis Valley floor. The formation of these dunes took place approximately 440,000 years ago. Sand and soil deposits from the Rio Grande River led to the formation of these dunes. Though the sand dunes are the primary attraction, the park is also home to several wildlife species including the Sandhill crane, the Great Sand Dunes beetle, and bighorn sheep which are one of its most notable inhabitants.
Nestled between Alamosa and Huerfano counties, Mosca Pass rises to a height of 9,714 feet (2,961 meters). Several plant species can be spotted here including Colorado rubber weed, bluebell bellflower, silver lupine, Parry’s oatgrass and scarlet gilia among several others. A great place for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
Akin to its name, High Dune is one of the tallest elevation in Great Sand Dunes National Park. Hike up to the top if you wish to enjoy a panoramic view of the dunes. Rising to a height of 693 feet, these dunes are a marvelous sight to behold.
The tallest dune in North America, Star Dune rises to a height of 741 feet (225 meters). This dune is easier to access as compared to the High Dune. Hikers can follow the ridge that leads up to the summit. This dune is a picture-postcard attraction and definitely warrants a visit.