Weekend Adventure in Great Sand Dunes National Park: Hiking, Sandboarding & Stargazing

A weekend getaway to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve from Denver turned into one of the most memorable Colorado adventures I’ve experienced. Departing early in the morning and arriving to snow-covered dunes created an incredibly peaceful atmosphere throughout the park. Because of the weather, crowds were minimal and it truly felt like we had the park to ourselves. We based ourselves in Alamosa, the closest full-service town to the park. While Alamosa is unpretentious and laid-back, it serves as the perfect gateway for travelers wanting comfortable accommodations, local dining, and easy access to the national park without camping.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

One of the highlights of the weekend was hiking the Zapata Falls Trail. The combination of fresh snow, icy terrain, and the hidden waterfall tucked inside the canyon made it feel like a true Colorado winter adventure. Microspikes were essential near the falls, but the reward was worth it—complete serenity, beautiful scenery, and very few other hikers on the trail. For active travelers who enjoy unique outdoor experiences, this hike should absolutely be added to the itinerary. Pairing it with nearby hot springs or a cozy dinner back in Alamosa makes for an ideal balance of adventure and relaxation.

Hiking Zapata Falls

Zapata Falls

Another unforgettable experience was stargazing in the park after dark. Great Sand Dunes National Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, and seeing the night sky here was nothing short of spectacular. After dinner in Alamosa, we drove back into the park, crossed Medano Creek, and set up chairs and cameras near the dunes. With almost no light pollution, the stars seemed endless and the stillness of the dunes at night created such a peaceful and surreal atmosphere. This is an experience I would highly recommend for couples, photographers, and travelers looking to slow down and truly connect with nature.

Exploring the Dunes

Great Sand Dunes at night

The adventure highlight for many travelers will undoubtedly be hiking High Dune and sandboarding afterward. Climbing the dunes is much more physically demanding than it appears—hiking through sand is a workout—but reaching the top and seeing the sweeping views of the San Luis Valley framed by snowcapped mountains was incredible. After the hike, sandboarding down the dunes added a fun and unique element to the trip that makes Great Sand Dunes unlike anywhere else in Colorado. This destination is perfect for adventurous couples, outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers looking for a long weekend filled with hiking, stargazing, and truly unique landscapes.

Hiker on dunes with snow-capped mountains in distance

Hiker on High Dune

Hiker on Dune

If you are planning to sandboard, reserve the rentals ahead of time or bring them with you.

April may bring snow, however it was super quiet in the park and worth the cold weather to have some space to ourselves.

Go stargazing in Great Sand Dunes National Park on a clear night!

If you go to a hot springs spa (which are common in that area), make sure you understand the clientele and rules (clothing optional, adult only or if kids are allowed). The websites provide information, however calling is recommended.

Bring water, snacks, and lunch if you’re hiking High Dune or spending the day in Great Sand Dunes; conveniences, water, and food accessibility are limited.

With Great Sand Dunes being a dark park, the road to and from Alamosa is super dark and high speed limit so be cautious when driving at night.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Colorado page.