Star Dune, Colorado
Total Distance: 8 miles (estimated)
Elevation Gain: Varies (see below)
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Advanced
The Hike: Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to one of the most unique and beautiful landscapes not only in Colorado, but in the entire country. Interested in crossing the highest sand dune in North America off your list during your visit to the park? Well, then look no further than Star Dune.
Not to be confused with High Dune, which is the tallest dune seen from the park’s visitor’s center, Star Dune rises 755 feet from its base in the San Luis Valley. Hiking to the dune is an all day trek, and with sand surface temperatures topping 150 degrees in the summer months, you’ll want to plan accordingly before making the trip.
Wind and rain are constantly changing the terrain of the dunefield, so it is near impossible to calculate an accurate elevation gain of this hike. With that being said, expect a good amount of climbing up and over the dunes. Hiking in the sand is extremely strenuous – underestimated your average pace and leave extra time to avoid hiking in either the harsh afternoon heat, or after dark.
Another option for this hike is to backpack into the dunefield. After obtaining a backcountry permit, backpackers can camp virtually anywhere they’d like within the dunes, and can split this strenuous hike into a two day trip.
The Details: There are no designated trails in the sand, so hikers can take whichever route they wish. However, it is recommended to start in the Dunes Parking Lot and hike about 2 miles south down the Medano Creek bed. Eventually, the pyramid-shaped Star Dune will come into view. Follow a ridge to its summit.
Gear: For this hike, we recommend bringing along either the Winter or Summer Day Hike Essentials, depending on the season.
*The information in this article is for planning purposes only. Actual trail conditions may vary depending on environmental factors. It is always advised to get the latest trail information from a park office or ranger before you begin your hike.