Our adventure to Great Sand Dunes National Park was a captivating journey through time and nature. Nestled in southern Colorado, the park boasts the tallest sand dunes in North America, set against the stunning backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The origins of these dunes trace back approximately 440,000 years, to a time when the San Luis Valley was a vast, shallow lake. As the lake dried up, winds gradually deposited sand and sediment against the mountains, creating the towering dunes we see today.
The dunes have long held significance for various cultures, particularly the Ute and Apache tribes, who considered the area sacred. Walking through the dunes, we felt the ancient presence and reverence these tribes held for this natural wonder. The early 20th century saw a renewed appreciation for the dunes, leading to their designation as a national monument in 1932, thanks to local citizens’ efforts to protect them from mining operations. In 2000, the area was elevated to national park and preserve status, safeguarding its unique landscape for future generations.
We hiked our way up the dunes for several hours and were rewarded with outstanding vistas of the dunes and the surrounding mountains. As the heat began to build we started back down enjoying the opportunity to glissade our way down some of the steeper dune faces. Back at the car it was time for lunch and a chance to cool off so we headed into the mountains to find Zapata Falls.
Zapata Falls is a hidden gem located near Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado. Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this stunning waterfall offers a refreshing and rewarding short hike. The journey begins at the Zapata Falls trailhead, accessible via a rugged dirt road. The hike itself is a moderate, half-mile trek through a picturesque landscape of aspen and pine trees, leading to the entrance of a rocky crevasse.As you navigate the cool, shaded crevasse, the sound of rushing, very cold, water grows louder, heightening the anticipation. The final approach requires wading through the icy stream, adding a sense of adventure to the experience. Upon rounding the last bend, you are greeted with the breathtaking sight of Zapata Falls, cascading 30 feet into a serene pool below. The mist from the falls creates a refreshing atmosphere, perfect for cooling off on a warm day. Click on thumbnail to view image
