1 day trip itinerary ideas

Question

Hi all,

We expect to visit GSDNP next August. We know it will be hot! But that is no problem.

I was wondering if you could help me plan our itinerary taking into account this information.

We will be leaving Salida in the morning and getting to GSDNP during the morning. My ideas is to spend the whole day there (and maybe even one night in order to stargaze?). I do not know if it is worth it. Then, on the next day we are moving towards Amarillo. Then:

i) Full day in GSDNP, spending the night and moving on the nextt day?

ii) Full day is not necessary and we can head towards our next stop in the afternoon?

What would you suggest?

We really appreciate your help!

Answer

Visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park (GSDNP) from Salida in August can be a fantastic experience, especially if you are prepared for the heat. Here’s a detailed look at your options for a 1-day or overnight itinerary:

Option 1: Full day + overnight stay

Arriving in the morning gives you a full day to explore the dunes without feeling rushed. Spending the night allows you to enjoy stargazing, which is exceptional in this park due to its dark skies.

Morning: Arrive at the park, stop by the Visitor Center to get maps, weather info, and sand conditions.
Late morning: Walk partway onto the dunes—start with the easier areas before tackling the higher dunes.
Lunch: Picnic at designated areas near the dunes or bring packed food; there are limited shade options.
Afternoon: Explore Medano Creek (if water is flowing) or hike some of the designated trails around the dunes.
Evening: Set up at nearby lodging or campgrounds (like Piñon Flats Campground), enjoy the sunset on the dunes, then stargaze once dark.

This approach maximizes your experience and gives you time to soak in both the landscape and night sky.

Option 2: Single day, leave in the afternoon

If you are pressed for time or prefer to keep moving toward Amarillo, a half-day or full-day visit without overnight is possible, though more rushed.

Morning: Arrive early, head straight to the dunes and visitor center.
Late morning: Short hike or sand play near the base of the dunes.
Early afternoon: Quick lunch and perhaps a brief visit to Medano Creek.
Mid-afternoon: Depart for your next stop.

This option gives a taste of the park but you will miss the sunset and stargazing experience.

Additional tips for August:

Bring plenty of water and sunscreen; temperatures can get very hot, especially on the sand.
Footwear: Sand can be extremely hot—water shoes or sandals are ideal for walking on dunes and creek areas.
Timing: Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to hike the dunes to avoid peak heat.
Photography: Sunset and sunrise provide the most dramatic lighting for photos.

Recommendation: If your schedule allows, staying overnight will make your visit much more enjoyable, provide a break from driving, and give the unique opportunity to stargaze in one of the darkest skies in Colorado.

1 day trip itinerary ideas

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