Dunes Overlook
Take a trail off Medano Pass Road for great views of the dune field.
Plan Around Dunes Overlook
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Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
Dunes Overlook Details
The Dunes Overlook is accessed via a trail off Medano Pass Road and offers a beautiful view of the first ridge of dunes in the park. The hike is 2.3 miles (out and back) and spurs off the Sand Ramp Trail after the first .5 miles. Be prepared to hike on sand if you head out on this trail. It's not as difficult as hiking in the dunes, but don't expect hard pack.
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
2.3 miles
Estimated time
1 hour
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Dunes Overlook
Compare nearby parks around Dunes Overlook when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Dunes Overlook
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Dunes Overlook while the map context is still fresh.
0.1 mi away
Dunes Overlook Trail
A short hike with vast views of the dunes.
0.2 mi away
Buck Creek
A backcountry campsite located a half-mile from Pinon Flats Campground.
0.3 mi away
Point of No Return
A backcountry trailhead that's also the beginning of the 4WD portion of the Medano Pass Road.
0.3 mi away
Sand Pit Trail
A half-mile spur trail off the Point of No Return, with great views and picnic tables.
0.5 mi away
Sand Ramp Trail
A long, lightly used path that takes hikers around the foot of the dunes and towards the Sangre de Cristo mountains.
