Current Conditions

Alerts

 
decorative logo of park ranger flat wide brimmed hat

NPS

Ranger Tips

For a Safe & Fulfilling Visit in Spring and Summer

Here are a few tips and tricks for visiting the Great Sand Dunes during the spring and summer seasons.

Website Updates & Alerts - Stay informed on conditions affecting your visit with the ALERTS section above

Sledding and Boarding? - Rent your sleds BEFORE coming to the park – there are NO rentals available inside the park – rental locations available at go.nps.gov/GRSA_Sandboarding

CAUTION Hot Sand! - Wear closed-toed shoes on the dunes and protect children and pets from the hot sand, which can reach 160 degrees F! Plan hikes on the dunes for early in the day or in early evening

Elevation Matters - If you come from lower areas, take it easy and allow your system to adjust to the 8,000-foot elevation

Drink Water & Wear a Hat - Protect yourself from the heat and sun with sunscreen, sunglasses, wide brimmed hat, and DRINK plenty of water

Pack a Picnic – while the visitor center bookstore sells some snacks, that is the only food available within the National Park. Plan ahead and bring everything you expect to need for the day

Bluetooth Speakers and Sound Systems Disturbances - Leave your tunes in the vehicle or at home. Listen for the natural booming/singing sands of the dunes and allow other visitors that opportunity to experience natural sounds

Pets - Keep your pets on a leash, and they are allowed in most popular trails and dune areas. More specifics available at Go.nps.gov/GRSA_Pets

 
 
 
A jeep crosses Medano Creek along the Medano Pass Road with gold aspen trees around the road

NPS/Patrick Myers

Medano Pass Road Current Conditions

6-4-2025
Watch for deeper ruts in upper secion of roadway.
 
 
Blizzard on Highway

Colorado Department of Transportation

Regional Road Conditions

 

Last updated: June 7, 2025

Park footer

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

Contact Us

Tools