Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to the tallest dunes in North America. The highest dunes within the park reach impressive heights, with Star Dune rising 750 feet from its base to its crest.
Understanding Dune Heights
When discussing the height of the dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park, it's important to consider specific measurements. The park's dunes are renowned for their size and scale, standing out prominently against the surrounding landscape.
According to information from the Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, the two most frequently mentioned tall dunes are Star Dune and High Dune:
- Star Dune: This dune is measured from its base to its crest and reaches a height of 750 feet. It is often cited as the tallest dune in the park based on this measurement.
- High Dune: Located on the first ridge, High Dune measures 699 feet from its base. While slightly shorter than Star Dune from base to crest, its starting point is higher above sea level, resulting in its crest being at a higher elevation overall than Star Dune's crest.
These measurements highlight the significant vertical relief created by the sand formations in the park.
Key Dune Heights
Here is a summary of the heights of the park's notable tall dunes:
| Dune Name | Height (Base to Crest) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Star Dune | 750 feet | Tallest measured base-to-crest |
| High Dune | 699 feet | Crest is higher above sea level |
These heights contribute to the unique geological and recreational features of Great Sand Dunes National Park, offering challenging climbs and expansive views. The park's official website provides further details on these and other frequently asked questions.
