The Tallest Sand Dunes in North America Have a Seasonal 'Beach'—What to Know

"This park contains North America's tallest sand dunes rising abruptly from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, formed by winds funneling through mountain passes and ongoing sand recycling. Star attractions include two towering dunes that reach roughly 750 feet above the valley floor. The best time to visit is spring and early summer for mild daytime temperatures and the seasonal creek, and visitors come for sandboarding, sledding, dune hiking and creek play; sand surface temperatures on warm days can top about 150°F, so hiking shoes or socks are recommended. Designated an International Dark Sky Park, it also offers excellent stargazing, plus visitor amenities such as dune‑rover wheelchairs, dune showers, a campground, and family programs like Junior Ranger and archaeology days." - Taryn White Taryn White Taryn White is a D.C.-based travel writer who covers a wide range of topics, including family travel, hotels, food, aviation, beaches, historical and cultural topics, and wellness travel. She can often be spotted around the world with her husband and two travel-loving kids. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines