Unfortunately we are up and off from this fun town of Durango. So much to see and do, but we must move on to our next stop, Great Sands National Park.
Traveled once again through beautiful country. Up through beautiful mountains covered in pine with the golden aspens shining with some lovely valley views. Continued on into the flat, drier prairie with mountains in the background. Once again very rural, in fact we ran into a dust storm on the way to the park!
Arrived at Great Sand Dunes National Park with some clouds and wind. Watched the film that explained how these huge dunes were formed amongst this terrain and the Rocky Mountains . Apparently in the spring, there are even lakes with some wave action that are formed.
This is some of the most unusual scenery anywhere. With the beautiful mountains, running streams, and these huge dunes (one the highest in North America ), it is really something to see!
Decided to hike the dunes, so off we went! Now this is much harder than you think. I was glad I had my hiking poles with me. Between the wind and loose sand, it was quite an adventure. We climbed to one dune, but not to the very top. As the wind and some drizzle were a little much. Still saw a fabulous view.
Made a few view stops, and then off for tonight’s stop at Alamosa. Meet with another dust storm on the way!
Checked in and after a little rest walked to the local brew pub for dinner. Dodged a quick storm, and back for the evening. Tomorrow brings the ride to Cave if the Winds .