About
Length (round trip)2 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyEasy
Elevation gain20 ft up
Typical time1 hr
TrailheadDunes parking area
SurfaceWet sand and shallow water
Best seasonLate May and early June for Medano Creek; September and October for cool sand. Summer sand surface reaches 150F.
DogsLeashed / limited stretches
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🌊 River or creek

Snowmelt from the Sangre de Cristos runs down over sand, and underwater sand ridges build and collapse to send waves down the creek every twenty seconds or so. It is the only place in North America where this surge flow happens reliably.

Tips
Peak flow is usually late May to early June and it can be dry by July - check the current flow before you plan a trip around it. Leashed dogs are welcome here, unlike most national parks.
Location

Dunes parking area

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