Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve

Local legends maintain that wagon trains vanished among the dunes, some of which are 750 feet high, and that strange creatures inhabit the area's inner reaches.

Two self-guiding nature trails and camping and picnicking facilities are available. Naturalist-conducted walks and nightly amphitheater programs are held in summer. Sleds and sandboards designed for the dunes are available to rent. Visitor center exhibits depict the region's natural and cultural history.

Allow 1 hour minimum for the park. Park open daily 24 hours. Visitor center daily 8-5:30, Memorial Day weekend-Labor Day; 9-4:30, rest of year. Closed Jan. 1, Thanksgiving, Martin Luther King Day and Christmas. Phone ahead to confirm schedule. Admission $25 (per private vehicle); $20 (per motorcycle). Phone (719) 378-6395.