• Dunes and Sangre de Cristo Mountains at Sunset

    Great Sand Dunes

    National Park & Preserve Colorado

Nature & Science

Aerial of Dunes and Sand Sheet

Aerial view of Great Sand Dunes

NPS Photo

How were the Great Sand Dunes formed? The most common question asked in the park is answered in understandable language, and in light of the most recent research. You may also learn more specifically about Great Sand Dunes hydrology.

 
Scientists creating an avalanche to record "singing sand" phenomenon

Scientists creating avalanche to record "singing sand" phenomenon, June 2, 2011

NPS Photo

Singing Sand Phenomenon

On June 2, 2011, scientists recorded the "singing" or "booming" sand phenomenon at Great Sand Dunes National Park. Listen to the recording on YouTube. (National Park Service video, 2011. Length: 1 minute)

 
Great Sand Dunes Tiger Beetle

The Great Sand Dunes Tiger Beetle is one of at least six insect species endemic only to Great Sand Dunes.

NPS Photo by Phyllis Pineda Bovin

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is one of the most biologically and geologically diverse parks in the United States. Learn about animals, plants, and ecosystems of the park and preserve. Discover how nature is regenerating after the Medano Fire of 2010.
 
Researcher explores a wetland

A researcher explores a wetland at Great Sand Dunes as part of an amphibian survey of the park.

NPS/Fred Bunch

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve encourages scientific research by academic, agency, and independent research scientists. A Research Permit is required to conduct scientific research or surveys in the park and preserve.

Did You Know?

Children rafting Medano Creek

In average to wet years, Medano Creek is a popular beach environment at Great Sand Dunes.  When creek flow is high, some children even raft the shallow waters. More...