Great Sand Dunes National Park

Around the Park

The Park has no roads or trails through it apart from the Medano Pass Jeep Trail. Simply park at the visitor center and head off on foot. Pushchairs are very difficult to negotiate through the sand and specially adapted wheelchairs are available from the Visitor Center.

Medano Pass Jeep Trail

The Medano Pass Primitive Road is strictly for off-roading. In fact, only high-clearance four-wheel-drives and licensed motorcycles are even allowed. The entire road is about 19 miles long and passes out of the National Park. Within its boundaries, however, the road runs along the dunes and crosses Medano Creek, getting you into parts of the park that are not easily accessible.

Know the rules of off-roading: They definitely apply here. For example, since the road is soft, deep sand, you should let some air out of your tires. Also, springtime can mean high water, making for tricky creek crossings.

This is trail is not for casual off road use, the rangers told us it's very easy to get stuck in the sand and you won't make any friends if you end up needing to be rescued... if you plan on taking the trail, be prepared.

Introduction - Key Information - How to get to - When to Visit - Around the Park - Top Attractions - Hikes and Trails - Gallery