Great Sand Dunes National Park - Retirement Travelers

Last Updated: September 29, 2024

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We enjoy our retirement travel with a visit to this magnificent and surprisingly beautiful national park in Alamosa, Colorado. After setting up camp, we go sand sledding on the large dunes with our dogs, while looking at Mount Blanca. Our first food tour in Alamosa was at the San Luis Valley Brewing Company, Calvillo’s Mexican Restaurant, and the Rubi Slipper Bar and Grill. We especially enjoyed the Gosar Family sausage, a fifth-generation natural foods producer in the San Luis Valley. We end up with John doing a run along the Rio Grande River and talking about the success of the Adams State University Cross Country program. He later got a running challenge from his grandson.

YouTube player — Sliding down the tallest sand dunes in the United States

Why Visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park is in the Colorado Rockies. It is a unique and mesmerizing destination that captivates visitors with its otherworldly landscapes. These are the tallest dunes in North America. The park contrasts the massive dunes, which can reach 750 feet, and the snow-capped peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the background. The park’s diverse ecosystems include grasslands, wetlands, and forests. Visitors can indulge in thrilling activities like sandboarding and sledding down the dunes. You could also take a scenic hike in the vast dune fields. The Medano Creek, a seasonal stream, adds an element of playfulness and relaxation. It invites families to splash and cool off in its shallow waters during the warmer months. With its surreal landscapes, recreational opportunities, and the chance to witness the interplay of sand and mountains, Great Sand Dunes NP offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.