Wind’s Art in the Folds of Sand: Great Sand Dunes National Park, CO

I am glad I have the time to explore Colorado in depth, as it is a stunning state with diverse landscapes.

My first stop is Zapata Falls. I pack my sandals, knowing I will need to go through water to reach the waterfall. When I arrive at the stream, it looks like the rain from the last few days has really raised the level. I put on my sandals and step into the freezing water. I brace myself for the numbing of my feet, but when I reach a spot that feels too risky, I turn around. The chance of falling into the water is high. I would not mind a dip on a hot day, but I do not want to risk ruining my equipment.

The falls are about twenty minutes from Great Sand Dunes National Park. Only when you get closer can you witness the vast beauty of the dunes resting at the base of the lush green Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The contrast is stunning.

I start my hike up the dunes in the early evening. There is no set trail, so I simply head in the direction of fewer people. I pack a quick dinner in case I decide to sit for a while. Sunset might be beautiful here, although I keep my eye on a heavy, dark cloud moving above.

It is hard not to compare this park to White Sands National Park in New Mexico. The main difference is in the color of the sand. Here, the grains are a creamy brown, while in White Sands they are a bright, creamy white. Both places are stunning and worth a visit.

What I enjoy most here is how the wind creates a story of movement. The folds of the dunes become endless shifting art. The wind here is the artist.

I continue to climb, sliding two steps back for every one step forward. Somehow, I chose a very steep incline, but it is fun. As the wind picks up, I decide it is time to descend. I already feel like a sandbox.

That night, I find my spot to call home on nearby BLM land called Sacred White Shell Mountain.

Good morning!

By 5:30 a.m. I begin another climb up the dunes. The silence is gorgeous. With each step, my eyes adjust to the darkness that is softly giving way to a new day. As I sit down to welcome the rising sun, wiggling my bare toe in the cold sand is to feel alive and bold!

Back at the picnic area, I find a quiet corner for yoga stretches and breakfast. Just a few feet away, a small building catches my attention. Hallelujah, a bathroom with running water! After yesterday’s wind at the top of the dunes, washing my hair feels like bliss.

Colorado does not stop amazing me. Driving toward Durango on Route 160 through Wolf Creek Pass is absolutely stunning. However, I can feel my brakes straining against the steep grades. I plan to stop at Treasure Falls, but construction in the area blocks the entrance.

My travels in Colorado are a mix of research ahead of time and what I call “traveling with the wind,” letting the road lead its way. Last year, I began using AI as a tool for travel planning. It amazes me how quickly I can gather information. What once took me hours now takes seconds. Of course, I always double-check, as it has led me astray a few times.

Why do I mention my AI tool? Because as I pause at Patagonia Spring, I ask AI if there are any points of interest on my way to Durango. That is how I discover my next stop: Chimney Rock National Monument.

Unfortunately, I arrive late in the day. The gate closes at 4:30, but I still have just over an hour to explore this gem.

Chimney Rock National Monument, just west of Pagosa Springs, is a striking landmark where twin stone spires rise dramatically above the valley. Once home to the Ancestral Puebloans more than a thousand years ago, the site preserves over 200 ancient structures, offering a glimpse into their connection with the land and the sky. Today, visitors can walk among the ruins and climb to mesa-top views, where the vast San Juan Mountains frame the horizon and the timeless presence of Chimney Rock still inspires awe. (from AI)

Finding a corner to call home for the night in Durango proves to be a challenge. Luckily, I come across Shera on the Road Trip Her map. My parking spot is at her business location, not far from the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad station, where I will ride tomorrow morning.

I meet Shera for a quick minute before she leaves on her camping trip and thank her for offering me a safe place to park for the night.

Sweet Dreams.