• Dunes and Sangre de Cristo Mountains at Sunset

    Great Sand Dunes

    National Park & Preserve Colorado

Plan A Field Trip

 
Re-enacting the formation of the San Luis Valley

NPS Photo

First graders re-create the formation of the San Luis Valley using... themselves.

There are countless possibilities for study at the Great Sand Dunes. Themes surrounding geology, ecology, and history are the most commonly explored. However, a creative teacher can turn the park into an outstanding classroom for civics, mathematics, engineering, creative writing, art or any number of topics.

You may opt for self-guided or ranger-guided.

 

Educational Entrance Fee Waivers

Groups with an accredited school that are visiting the park for primarily educational purposes may also apply for an entrance fee waiver. You must include formal educational content during your field trip in order to qualify. Download and fill out the Educational Entrance Fee Waiver Form (.pdf file, 78KB). Form must be received at least two weeks prior to your visit. Complete the form and fax to 719-378-6310 or mail to: Fee Supervisor, Great Sand Dunes NPP, 11500 Hwy. 150, Mosca, CO 81146.

Questions about fee waivers may be directed to: Fee Supervisor, (719) 378-6352, or send an email

 

Transportation Funds

Accredited schools from the local San Luis Valley coming to the Great Sand Dunes for primarily educational purposes are eligible to apply for transportation funds through the Environmental and Conservation Education Council. 

Wheels to the Field funds can be used to reimburse mileage and driver expenses for field trips that meet the criteria listed on the application form.

Did You Know?

Upper Sand Creek Lake

Alpine lakes such as Upper Sand Creek Lake are part of the mountain watershed of Great Sand Dunes, and provide a dramatic contrast to the stark dunefield. More...