The great sand dunes of Alamosa, Colorado

By Graham McKenzie

Three and half hours driving south of Denver you will find the town of Alamosa.

It’s a very nice small linear settlement nestling in the heart of the San Luis Valley. What you wouldn’t necessarily know though is it is also home to one of the greatest natural phenomena in the whole of the North American continent, The Great Sand Dunes National Park.

The Great Sand Dunes means great big, massive, go on forever sand dunes. If you didn’t know any better, you would think you had been transported to the home planet of Luke Skywalker and were about to find Obi Wan. It is without doubt the crown jewel of the region, a mesmerising landscape of towering sand that rises up to 700 feet, creating an otherworldly terrain.

Visitors to the park can experience the unique thrill of sandboarding or sand sledding on the massive dunes, with equipment that is easily available for rent in Alamosa town a few miles away. The park’s terrain is a geological marvel, formed by prevailing winds that carry sand particles and deposit them at the foot of the mountains.

Much like other great expanses of sand the temperatures can however vary wildly from chilly night-time’s to the summer extremes that can easily exceed 40^OC. If you do however visit at night the dark skies can yield more magic as with little, if any, ambient light you can just sit in awe as you take the opportunity to watch the cosmos.

Alamosa’s downtown is a testament to small-town charm, with historic brick buildings utilised for bars, restaurants and retail all characterised by a very welcoming atmosphere. The town’s culinary scene is particularly noteworthy, featuring authentic Mexican cuisine that reflects the region’s cultural roots. If you like it spicy then you have no fear here.

Restaurants like Nino’s Mexican Restaurant and Emma’s offer traditional southwestern dishes, with green chili being a local specialty. It’s not burn the roof off your mouth fare but it does pack a punch. Most other popular cuisines are available including, ‘good ol steaks and burgers.  A wide variety of accommodation is also available with an emphasis on value.

Worthy of mention is that the mighty Rio Grande River runs right through the centre of the town.  It serve as a lifeline to the region, offering numerous recreational opportunities. Stretching 1,896 miles, the river provides excellent fishing, rafting, and bird-watching experiences. If you fancy a stroll, hike The Rio Grande Trail which offers a 3.2-mile out-and-back route along the river, which is perfect for exploring the local landscape.

The magic of Alamosa lies in its ability to blend natural beauty, cultural richness, and small-town hospitality. From the otherworldly sand dunes of the National Park to the authentic local cuisine, this Colorado gem offers a unique and memorable experience for travellers seeking an authentic American destination.

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