https://theta360.com/s/fERuAb0E75Pbcvx3179mNkcSW
(360° picture view)
A friend and I have been roadtripping/(car)camping/hiking/hot-springs hopping, and just trying to see the best, most amazing spots around the SW United States (at least to within at least a reasonable driving distance). And one spot DEFINITELY worth noting is,
The Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, in Southern Colorado!
Drive to the parking lot past the visitors' center, cross the little stream in the sand (or just sit in it), and you're at the base of the dunes!
It's not a super-easy hike. Hiking up sand dunes rarely is; and these are BIG!
But the view from even the closest (2nd highest) Peak, "High Dune" is unreal...
As we were leaving, that giant storm rolled over the mountains, which started to drizzle on us a little. As as it picked up, the winds going over the peaks and ridges of the dunes felt a little like being in front of a mini sand blaster. Which was fun for a second, but we quickly made our way off the top of the ridges after feeling properly exfoliated.
Overall, a great spot to check-out and hike. Took about 2-3 hours total to the closest peak. And with more time, or time to find a cool spot in the dunes to camp overnight, I would definitely try to get to the highest peak, "Star Dune" next time.
We were even treated to an amazing complete rainbow (partially double) in the parking lot as we left! Good day!
https://theta360.com/s/aVG6ODOY5i80ixWdrtYIlongm
Thanks for reading! Comment with any questions, thanks.