Backpack – BPX 3-Day Great Sand Dunes Backcountry from Point of No Return TH

Learn about the CMC's Backpacking Section (BPX) and become a member here. 

Meetup directions will be sent to participants prior to the trip. We can only park 2 cars at the national park, so will need to carpool from Denver or along 285. Expect an early start on Day 1, and return to Denver on evening of Day 3. 

Experience the magic of Great Sand Dunes National Park in spring, before it's too hot! This time of year, the Medano Creek creates a seasonal flow across the sand. This is a phenomenon that draws crowds to the park, where people enjoy the temporary beach and play in the waves. There are lots of Youtube videos on this. 

This is a great trip for photography enthusiasts -- pack that extra camera gear and capture the epic dunes, night skies, and mountains. 

Route and Itinerary

We have permits for the backcountry camp site called Little Medano. This site is 4 miles from the Point of No Return trailhead, but we'll be assigned parking when we arrive and might have to walk farther than 4 miles total (up to 5). 

This route is fairly easy and this is a more casual backpacking trip, but you should be able to hike 5 miles at a casual-to-moderate pace, manage all your own gear and needs, and hike on the dunes comfortably. 

Map to campsite

Day 1: Drive to National Park (3.5 hours from Denver), find parking, hike in to site. 4-5 miles and 583 feet of gain. 

Day 2: Spend the day exploring the dunes and Medano Creek, potential day hike distance of 8 miles. Head back to camp, perhaps wake up after midnight to catch the milky way and famed night skies above the dunes.  

Day 3: Break camp, hike out, drive home. 

This trip requires backpacking gear and some special gear, such as water shoes, swimsuits, and gear that will be fitting for sand hiking, high winds, and sun exposure.