Colorado - Great Sand Dunes National Park
Great Sand Dunes National Park, located at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in Colorado, was first established as a national monument in 1932 and redesignated as a national park in 2004. Spanning 149,137 acres, the park is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including wetlands, forests, tundra, and the tallest sand dunes in North America. Among these, the Star Dune stands out, reaching an impressive elevation of 755 feet. The dynamic landscape of the dunes is ever-changing. During winter, melting snow from the surrounding mountains feeds the Medano and Sand Creeks, which transport sand particles from the mountain slopes back to the valley floor. Winds then carry these sand particles across the valley, and shifting storm patterns can cause the sand to move back towards the mountains, promoting vertical growth of the dunes. Beyond its stunning dunes, Great Sand Dunes National Park is a haven for wildlife. The park provides habitat for a variety of species, including pronghorn, mountain lions, black bears, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. Additionally, the park has been designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it an exceptional location for stargazing and capturing celestial phenomena. This designation, combined with the park’s unique landscapes and wildlife, offers fantastic opportunities for both landscape and wildlife photography.
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