History & Culture

Paleo people put spears into a massive Columbian mammoth beside water and trees
Artifacts from the Great Sand Dunes area date back to the earliest people in North America.

NPS

Paleo and Archaic Cultures of Great Sand Dunes

 
In this illustration, a Ute woman in traditional dress peels bark from the side of a ponderosa pine using a long stick
In this illustration, a Ute woman peels the side of a ponderosa pine near the dunes in the 19th century.

NPS/Patrick Myers

Culturally Modified Trees

 
Two young Dineh Tah' Navajo Dancers in colorful regalia stand in front of the dunes
Two young Dineh Tah' Navajo Dancers stand in front of the dunes before a cultural presentation.

NPS/Patrick Myers

A Living Connection: Great Sand Dunes' Affiliated Tribes

 
Historical black and white photo of Julia Herard, a young woman in dress attire riding on a horse near the dunes
Julia Herard rides a horse from her family's homestead in Medano Canyon to the Liberty Hotel on the north side of the dunes, 1907.

NPS Archives

Exploration and Settlement around Great Sand Dunes

Last updated: May 1, 2025

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Visitor Center
11999 State Highway 150
Mosca, CO 81146

Phone:

(719) 378-6395
General Park and Preserve information: (719) 378-6395 Emergencies (Police, Fire, Medical): Dial 911. Non-emergencies (Police, Fire, Medical): call (719) 589-5807

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