From Sand to Snow: The Ultimate Southern Colorado Adventure
Here’s how to experience Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, wander through Salida, and ski at Monarch Mountain — all in one perfectly balanced getaway.
Great Sand Dunes National Park: Colorado’s Desert Surprise
Yes, Colorado has the tallest sand dunes in North America — rising dramatically against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
What makes this stop so special:
Climb or hike High Dune for sweeping views
Try sandboarding or sand sledding
Visit in late spring when Medano Creek creates a beach-like oasis
Stay for sunset — the light turns everything gold and blush
It feels wild and quiet and almost surreal. You’ll wonder how this landscape exists in the same state as ski resorts.
Travel Tip: Spring and early summer are ideal for creek flow. Fall offers cooler temps and fewer crowds.
Salida: Colorado’s Coolest Mountain Town
About 2.5 hours north of the dunes sits Salida — the kind of town that makes you consider moving.
Why Salida works perfectly in this itinerary:
Walkable historic downtown
Local art galleries and coffee shops
Soaking opportunities nearby (hello hot springs)
Arkansas River views and trails
Salida feels creative and relaxed without being overly polished. It’s a reset between adventure days.
Monarch Mountain: Skiing Without the Scene
Just 25 minutes from Salida, Monarch Mountain is refreshingly old-school.
This isn’t a see-and-be-seen resort. It’s:
Affordable lift tickets
Legit powder days
Minimal lift lines
Friendly, laid-back vibe
If you’re skiing with kids or just want the mountain experience without the chaos of bigger resorts, Monarch delivers. It’s approachable but still exciting.
And after a ski day? Back to Salida for dinner and maybe a soak.
How to Plan This Trip
Best Time to Go:
Late March–April if you want both snow and accessible dunes.
May–June for dunes + warmer mountain days.
Winter for a ski-focused version with a quick dunes stop (weather permitting).
Suggested Flow (4–5 Days):
Day 1: Arrive in Denver or Colorado Springs → Drive to Great Sand Dunes
Day 2: Morning dunes exploration → Drive to Salida
Day 3: Ski Monarch Mountain
Day 4: Ski or explore Salida → Hot springs evening
Day 5: Leisurely morning → Return drive
Why This Trip Works So Well
It’s contrast.
Desert and alpine.
Sand and snow.
Creative town energy and wide-open wilderness.
For families, couples, or women’s adventure groups (👋 WildHer style), this trip feels both grounding and invigorating. You get movement, beauty, and that Colorado magic without the overwhelm of mega-resorts.
Where to Stay
Salida boutique inns or vacation rentals
Cozy cabins near the dunes
Simple ski lodge stays near Monarch
If you want help planning it — lodging, lift tickets, timing the creek flow, or building it into a longer Colorado itinerary — this is exactly the kind of trip I love designing.
