Great Sand Dunes

The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is truly one of the most unique places in Colorado. I've been visiting the dunes since I was a little kid and I never get tired of this place. Photographically speaking, there are endless possibilities here. The main challenge is the elements. On this visit, the wind was positively brutal. It's tough to photograph in strong wind, but add to that getting blasted with sand, and you have a tough day ahead. Still, I'm just too stubborn to let that stop me, so I persevered through an evening of hiking and photographing in relentless wind. As you might imagine, I did not take too many photos, but I think this small group of images is a fine enough reward for some fun but hard work, and a pleasant reminder of what a special place this is.

Strong winds blow across the sand dunes at the foot of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains at sunset, Great Sand Dunes National Park...
Windswept Dunes

Strong winds blow across the sand dunes at the foot of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains at sunset, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado. Photo © copyright by Bob Dent.

Strong winds blow sand over the crest of a dune, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado.
Curving Dune

Strong winds blow sand over the crest of a dune, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado. Photo © copyright by Bob Dent.

The sun sets over the sand dunes, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado.
Sunset Over Shifting Sands

The sun sets over the sand dunes, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado. Photo © copyright by Bob Dent.