Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

As of Friday, July 25th, 2025, at 3:30 pm, Medano Pass Primitive Road is fully open from State Highway 150 to Medano Pass and Forest Road 559. All vehicles must be four-wheel drive with a low-range transfer case to travel beyond the Point of No Return Parking Lot. Plan to lower tire pressure for deep sandy sections. For Forest Road 559 in Pike and San Isabel National Forest east of Medano Pass, check with the National Forest Service for conditions on the continuation of the road east of the park. The gate at Medano Pass opened for the season for entry into the park as of May 19 2025. The Forest Service website is undergoing maintenance, so the link to road conditions may not be updated regularly until maintenance is completed.

From the Horse Trailer Parking Lot to the Point of No Return, the road is open. Near Ponderosa Point there are several large dips in the roadway, so drive slowly to avoid tires slipping and digging further into the dips. The sandy section from Ponderosa Point to Castle Creek Picnic Area is wet and firm due to recent rains. The road is passable, though you will likely need to consider airing down your tires to cross the sand. The air station is now operating for the 2025 season.

Besides current conditions, plan ahead for sand, water, and rocks.

The road fully opens when weather and road conditions allow, typically in mid to late May, and it remains fully open through the end of the fourth rifle hunting season near the end of November, as weather allows. ATVs and UTVs are prohibited throughout the park and preserve, and all vehicles must be highway-legal in Colorado.

Weather shifts quickly here, so it helps to plan by the season and/or months. In spring, afternoons can bring high winds. Temperatures vary widely, with highs reaching the 60s °F or only the 30s °F with snow and an even colder windchill. Lows range from the 40s °F to the 20s °F. March and April are the snowiest months of the year, typically interspersed with warmer days in the 50s °F to 60s °F. In later spring when Medano Creek is flowing, you may still see snow or high winds, or find calm, sunny, swimsuit weather. Be prepared for any conditions in spring and check Medano Creek conditions and forecast flow.