Explore Medano Creek

Great Sand Dunes National Park is a natural anomaly. The towering mounds of orange sand contrasted against the Sangre de Cristo mountain range have inspired photographers and hikers for years. One less known interesting aspect of this park is that a seasonal creek flows through the desert valley for just a few months every year.

Medano Creek is created by annual snow melt run off and flows through the park between April and July. The peak flow of this creek occurs between late May and early June. This is a great time for families with children to go because tubing is possible and very safe with a responsible parent nearby. Additionally, the water reaches about 2 feet deep in the deepest areas which is a great height for young children to enjoy. Great Sand Dunes is also dog friendly, which can be especially fun for families with water-loving dogs.

Medano Creek makes for an interesting photography subject  because of how it contrasts with the surrounding landscape. Taking photos that include the sand dunes, Sangre de Cristo range, and Medano Creek are especially stunning. Because crowds can be an issue during peak season, photographers need only hike approximately half a mile up stream to take pictures that don't include tourists. 

Great Sand Dunes is a location in Colorado that becomes even more spectacular during summer months. Explorers don't have to look hard to find adventure hiding around every river bend.