We Summited The Highest Sand Dune In North America, And What A Summit It Was
I recently climbed to the peak of the highest sand dune in North America with my partner, and what a climb it was! Imagine trudging straight up hill, wind fiercely blowing in your face, and smooth sand quickly pulling your steps nearly back to where you started with every step that you take. Now imagine that fierce wind throwing sand in your eyes, ears, mouth, teeth… and other places that I don’t have to explain to you.
It sounds brutal but if you asked me if it was worth it, I would still say yes and encourage you to visit. Even if you’re not a ambitious hiker who is ready to trudge your way up the side of massive piles of sand, this park offers something for everyone.
Accessibility At The Dunes
One thing that I appreciated about the park is that they provide wheelchairs that can more easily trek through the sand. They can be acquired at the visitors center, so check to make sure they will be open when you visit the park. Another cool thing is that the park is open 24/7, although it’s not advised to do night hikes if you aren’t familiar with the dunes.
Hiking The High Dune And Star Dune
I must say, to begin with, we didn’t plan on hiking to the top of High Dune and Star Dune. But with no marked trails and the urge to see what lies on the other side, we were inspired to make the challenging climb. NPS.gov says the following about the dunes: “Great Sand Dunes has the tallest dunes in North America. Star Dune rises 750 feet from its base to its crest. The ‘High Dune’ on the first ridge rises 699 feet from its base, but because it starts on higher ground, its crest is higher above sea level that of Star Dune.”
Be the kind of person that sees an obstacle as a mountain, (or a giant sand dune in this case!) and throws on their hiking gear.
Casar Jacobson
What The Hike Was Like
The hike to the top was intense. We chose one of the windier and colder days to explore the dunes, making the hike chilly and sandy. The odd thing about the dunes is that they trick your mind into thinking that you are closer to your desired point than you are. You can see some of the taller dunes at the parking lots and assume that you can take a stroll up the hill, not imagining that your hike will consist of a few miles and hours. For those who are ready to get their heart pumping, the Star Dune and High Dune may be for you. Even if you’re not ready to put on your hiking boots and test your limits, the Great Sand Dunes seems to have something for almost everyone.
What To Do At The Dunes
The dunes can invoke a playfulness in the spirt of kids and adults alike by offering a place to roll, ski, snowboard, and sled down the dunes. Be sure to do your research to see where you can find these fun tools if you don’t plan on bringing them, because not all of the shops are open year round and none of them are located inside of the park. They can also invoke wonder because of their diverse, beautiful, and unique ecosystems. The dunes are surrounded by alpine peaks, a desert valley, magnificent rolling dune views, and have creeks flowing on the surface of the sand. What a hike!
Be sure to bring your sense of humor, stamina, and don’t be afraid to get sandy and unruly!
