For a unique experience, try to visit the park when you can visit Medano Creek. The seasonal creek is a great way to wade into the water or bring innertubes that are carried by the surges of water occurring every 20 seconds or so. The creek starts as snow in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. When the snow melts in the spring, the water is carried down to eventually form the wide and shallow Medano Creek. The underlying sand creates the periodic waves that propel flotation devices down the creek. The water is shallow and the flow easy enough to be safe for children. It’s a popular spot where you can bring refreshments and lounge on the “beach”. The creek reaches its peak in late spring. By mid-summer, it’s gone again until the following spring. Check with the park for the current conditions.

Once the day is done at the park, you’re not finished seeing amazing sites. Great Sand Dunes National Park is certified as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association. The park’s high elevation, lack of light pollution and normally clear skies make it ideal for seeing the night sky. You’ll be able to see constellations, planets and the Milky Way. Make sure to go near a new moon, so the moon’s light won’t interfere with your views. If you go near a full moon, there will be enough light for a night hike in the park. Here you may encounter some of the diverse nocturnal wildlife in the park such as owls and coyotes. The park is open 24 hours a day.

If you’re coming to Great Dunes National Park, you’ll have to go hiking on the dunes, of course. At over 700 feet, Star Dune is the highest dune in the park. The trail is about 6 miles roundtrip, although estimates say that you should expect about a 5 hour trip. The park itself is already at a high elevation (the visitors center sits at over 8,000 feet), so be prepared to hike in the thinner air. Also, although the air temperature may not be too bad, there is often clear skies and the sand can reach temperatures of 150 degrees Fahrenheit (65 degrees Celsius). Give yourself plenty of time and make sure you’re in shape before proceeding. There is no set course, so you may want to find an app to help you navigate.