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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 body 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
