Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
CO
WEATHER INFO
Temperatures are relatively cool all year at the park elevation 8000 ft. Conditions are most often calm, but winds can arise, especially in spring and during storm fronts. Daytime temperatures feel warmer here year round due to intense high-altitude sunlight, and mid-day summer sand surface temps can be 160 degrees F! Plan to explore the dunes morning or evening during summer. Nights are cool in summer, and frigid in winter. Visit https://nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/weather.htm for details
Weather @ Great Sand Duneslast updated: 3 min
DIRECTIONS INFO
INFORMATION
What to Expect During Government Funding Lapse
In general, other areas within this park remain as accessible as possible. Visitors should be aware that while some services are unavailable visitors are expected to protect park resources by following all regulations and “Leave No Trace” practices. As of Sunday 10-12-2025, the Visitor Center and Western National Parks Park Store are open under a donation agreement.
CAUTION
Medano Pass Primitive Road Impassible to Most Vehicles at Crossing Two
Driving the Medano Primitive Road is NOT ADVISED at this time. Erosion and deep mud near the second creek crossing are making the road impassible to most vehicles. There have been many instances the area is blocked by a stuck vehicle. All vehicle operators will be responsible for their own vehicle recovery and could incur significant expense from third party towing/recovery operators.
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Backcountry Areas Open - Permits MUST Be Printed BEFORE Entering Park.
Due to the current government shutdown, park staff will not be available to print out backcountry permits. Users MUST bring printed permit to display in vehicles for overnight parking. Permits available at Recreation.gov
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Piñon Flats Campground, sites can be reserved 3 months in advance for 2026
Due to the need for improvements in Piñon Flats Campground, sites can be reserved 3 months in advance beginning in 2026.