The Great Sand Dunes

see all photos »

We had difficulty reaching the Great Sand Dunes due to a large wildfire blocking one of the roads.  Eventually we reached them, and they truly are great.  Rather than camping right at the park, we chose a state park about 10 miles away as it had showers, and believe me, we needed them.

There were countless signs and park rangers available to explain how the dunes were formed millions of years ago, how the mountains were moving, blah, blah, blah, blah.  We ignored all that and just had fun running up and down them.  We got there early to avoid the hot sun, but it was still very warm and we were sweating like pigs.  And did you know the sand can reach 140 degrees?  it's true.  Also, if anyone is considering a trip to the dunes, Brian would NOT recommend using Keen sandals as the toes get jammed up with sand.  Open toes are the way to go.

Who knew the desert could be so unforgiving?

Our campsite, looking out on the dunes and the Sangre De Cristo Mountains
see all photos »

The camping was very different than state parks in MN. It was very stark, almost like we were on the moon (or in the desert, go figure). Each site had an odd metal shade thing over the picnic table. At night the coyotes would howl and howl. Our last night, there was an unfortunate incident with our tent. An unexpected dust devil (like a mini tornado) went directly through our campsite, and our tent went flying into the desert brush. To quote Brian, "Who knew the desert could be so unforgiving?" It continued to be very windy all night, and our tent was full of sand. That could be the last time we camp in the desert.

see all photos »

Anne