Dunes Overlook Trail

The Dunes Overlook Trail is a short hike located in Great Sand Dunes National Park. This hike travels through a forest to a stunning overlook. This out and back hike is 2.7 miles long and gains 469 feet of elevation.

This hike starts from a small parking area outside of Pinyon Flats Campground. There are no amenities at the trailhead. Begin hiking east on the campground road. After 0.2 miles, turn left onto Loop 2. Walk Past campsites and a bathroom for 0.2 miles. Then turn right onto Overlook Trail. You will be hiking gradually uphill amongst coniferous trees. After 0.1 miles, the trail opens up a bit and you will have views of the dunes on your left. Enjoy the views for the next 0.3 miles. After this, you will hike downhill briefly before heading uphill again. You will now be walking amongst trees once again.

Continue trekking uphill as the trail switches back up a slope. After 0.2 miles, you will come to a junction. Turn right here to stay on Overlook Trail. The trail gets a bit steeper, and the switchbacks continue. Hike up three switchbacks over the next 0.3 miles. This will bring you to the Dunes Overlook. From here, you will have a phenomenal view of the large dunefield to the west. There are benches available here too. Once you have taken ample time to rest and enjoy the views, turn around and retrace your steps to return to the trailhead.

Great Sand Dunes National Park is open for hiking year round. There is a $25 fee per vehicle that enters the park. Dogs are allowed on this trail, but they must be on a leash at all times. The Dunes Overlook Trail is a great hike for anyone visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park.