Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

High Dune

High Dune

Highlight • Natural Monument

High Dune

Hiking

5.0

(10)

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Great Sand Dunes Wilderness

Save

Location: Alamosa County, Colorado, United States

Save

See nearby routes

Take Me There

Tips

Caro "Bandit"

October 23, 2023

Hiking

With a height of 688 feet (at an elevation of 8,727 feet), High Dune is – along with Star Dune just next to it – one of the tallest sand dunes in North America. There are no trails leading up to the summit, but you can ascent the dune from the Dunes Parking by hiking crosscountry. The view from this majestic dune that is nestled at the foot of the Sangre de Christo Mountains is unique. Bring plenty of water and avoid the heat of the day and stormy weather.

Sigrid

September 25, 2025

Hiking

The High Dune isn't the highest peak of the Great Sand Dunes, but the view is breathtaking. The effort to tackle the sometimes steep sections is worth it. Plenty of water is recommended, as it can get very hot and windy.

Translated by

•

Sigrid

September 25, 2025

Hiking

Hiking up the dune is a wonderful experience, but you should be in good shape. It can be strenuous to climb the inclines in the loose sand. The view from the dune is magnificent; you can see in every direction.

Translated by

•

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!

Nearby routes

Best routes near High Dune

#1.

High Dune Trail

2.16km

00:44

160m

Embark on an easy hike up the High Dune Trail, a unique experience on soft, sandy terrain. This route covers 1.3 miles (2.2 km) with an elevation gain of 531…

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Easy

5.0

(2)

hikers

#2.

High Dune – Medano Creek loop from Dunes Parking

6.59km

01:58

180m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Easy

hikers

#3.

High Dune – Mosca Pass Trail loop from Interpretive Loop Trailhead

10.3km

02:56

210m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 2,600 m

Weather

Thursday 7 May

18°C

-5°C

-- %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: -- km/h

Most visited during

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

See nearby routes

Take Me There

Location: Alamosa County, Colorado, United States

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Dunes Trailhead, Great Sand Dunes National Park

Buck Creek

Piñon Flats Campground

Dunes Overlook

Mosca Pass Trail

Buck Creek Campsites

Zapata Falls Trailhead

Medano Pass

Zapata Falls

Great Sand Dunes National Park Visitor Center

Dunes Overlook

Wellington Ditch Trail

High Dune

#1.

High Dune Trail

#2.

High Dune – Medano Creek loop from Dunes Parking

#3.

High Dune – Mosca Pass Trail loop from Interpretive Loop Trailhead

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Sign up or log in to keep exploring this route

We value your privacy ⛰️

We value your privacy ⛰️