22 Unforgettable Adventures in National Parks Across America

13. Sandboarding the Dunes in Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Forget sledding on snow—Great Sand Dunes National Park lets you surf down North America’s tallest sand dunes in the heart of Colorado. These golden peaks, some soaring up to 750 feet high, provide an exhilarating experience as you carve your way down their soft, shifting slopes on a sandboard or sand sled. Unlike snowboarding, which relies on packed snow, sandboarding requires balance and patience as the fine grains create a unique texture for gliding. The dunes are constantly reshaped by the wind, ensuring that no two rides are ever the same, making each descent feel like a fresh adventure. After an adrenaline-fueled session of sandboarding, cool off in Medano Creek, a seasonal stream that runs at the base of the dunes. In late spring and early summer, the creek creates a natural beach oasis where visitors can splash, float, or build sandcastles against the backdrop of towering dunes and the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains. As the sun sets, the dunes take on a golden-orange glow, offering one of the most stunning landscapes in any national park. Whether you're there for adventure or relaxation, this park delivers an unforgettable desert-meets-mountain experience.