A Seaside for Giants: What’s Particular About Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park, and Why Canine Love It

Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park is understood for its towering hills of sand. Some dunes stand a whole lot of toes within the air, like a seaside for giants (with no ocean). Regardless of being near the Denver space, Nice Sand Dunes will get only a fraction of the guests that Colorado’s Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park sees yearly.

Nonetheless, Nice Sand Dunes has a lot to supply. It’s an incredible place to get outdoor, and it’s not simply individuals who adore it; canine adore it too.

Listed below are some issues to learn about Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park that will show you how to plan your go to.

1. Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park Is Canine-Pleasant

Many nationwide parks are usually not dog-friendly, however that’s not essentially true at Nice Sand Dunes. Whereas massive elements of the park are off limits to your four-legged pal, there are nonetheless loads of spots the place you may carry a canine. These areas embrace the primary use a part of Piñon Flats Campground, Dunes Overlook Path, Mosca Move Path, and the Medano Move Primitive Path. Canine want to remain on the path and be leashed always.

The park sits subsequent to Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Protect, which is kind of a continuation of the nationwide park. Canine are permitted all over the place within the nationwide protect. Simply make sure you clear up after your pet.

2. The Dunes Actually Are Nice (and Huge)

It’s onerous to visualise how massive the dunes are till you’re there in particular person. Star and Hidden Dunes are the biggest dunes, which each attain 741 toes. Guests received’t discover particular trails within the dune space, however don’t let that cease you from summiting these sandy beasts. On the prime, you could find nice views.

Carry a saucer or a sled to trip again down the large dunes. Just like White Sands Nationwide Park, you don’t want snow to take pleasure in a enjoyable day sledding the dunes. For these extra adventurous, you may even attempt sandboarding. 

3. There’s Extra Than Simply Piles of Sand

In case your concern is that you simply’ll be bored after testing the dunes, there’s loads extra to do within the park. Backcountry climbing and tenting are nice methods to discover the encircling space, the place you’ll discover forested trails. You can even climb Mount Herard, which stands at greater than 13,000 toes in elevation. The summit consists of glorious views of the dune area. Within the hotter months, the park is a well-liked vacation spot for Medano Creek. Individuals can swim and wade within the water to chill off from the summer time warmth.

4. Go on a 4×4 Drive Journey

Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park consists of many miles of off-road trails for Jeeps and different 4×4 automobiles. Luckily, there are a number of close by guides and rental corporations to assist get you into the backcountry, when you don’t need to do it alone or don’t have the gear. Hiring a information will permit you to see the sights and escape the crowds with an expert who is aware of his or her approach across the park.

5. You Can Go to the Close by City of Alamosa, Colorado

The gateway city of Alamosa has loads to discover after a protracted day of climbing sand hills. From ice-cream spots to native eating places and breweries, Alamosa is a superb place to relax and calm down. There are additionally retailers, artwork galleries, and a close-by roadside attraction of an alien watchtower for enjoyable star gazing (and perhaps even recognizing a UFO).