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Entrance
$25
No permit needed
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⭐ Highlights
→Star Dune — highest dune in North America (750 ft)
→Medano Creek — seasonal wading (May–June)
→Sand sledding and sandboarding
→Sangre de Cristo Mountains backdrop
⚠ Before you go
!Sand surface temperature 150°F in summer — hike before 10am
!No water on dunes — carry 2L minimum
!Lightning risk on open dune field — leave before 2pm
When to visit
Great Sand Dunes by Season
Spring (Apr–Jun)
Medano Creek flowing.
Summer (Jul–Sep)
Hot surface. Hike very early.
Fall (Oct–Nov)
Ideal temps.
Winter (Dec–Mar)
Snow-covered dunes. Snowshoe access.