NPS Photo by Patrick Myers
Bison take a drink at Dollar Lake west of the dunes. Over 1000 bison roam on Nature Conservancy lands within the national park. Bison tours are the primary way to see these majestic animals at Great Sand Dunes.
The Nature Conservancy partners with the National Park Service to protect the entire dunes system and its biodiversity. The Conservancy manages over 1000 bison on Conservancy-owned grasslands and wetlands within the national park.
Bison Tours are offered throughout the year, weather permitting, on Nature Conservancy lands. Led as a hayride (warmer months) or 4WD vehicle tour, bison managers take you to parts of the park that few visitors get to see. 4WD vehicle tours are offered anytime as staffing permits, and as long as there is a minimum of 4 people. Hayrides are offered by reservation for larger groups. Please call ahead to confirm available dates and times and to reserve a tour.
The Nature Conservancy's Zapata Ranch also offers ranch experience stays and lodging in their historic ranch rooms.
For more information on dates, times, and prices, please call 1-888-5-ZAPATA (927282) ext. 110, or click the Bison Tours link above.