Anniversary Adventure in Crestone
Day 1 : Exploring the Great Outdoors
Today we'll visit Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve and Medano Creek.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
9:00 - 16:30
Explore the towering Star Dune and enjoy the panoramic views from High Dune. Walk along Medano Creek, especially in spring when the creek is at its fullest. Take a scenic drive on Medano Pass Primitive Road to experience the diverse landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and alpine lakes like Medano Lake.
Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and bring plenty of water. Don't miss the chance to capture stunning photos at High Dune, Medano Creek, and Star Dune. If you're into stargazing, Star Dune is an excellent spot for viewing the Milky Way.
Medano Creek
17:00 - 19:00
Enjoy the unique experience of wading through the shallow, seasonal Medano Creek at the base of the Great Sand Dunes. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding dunes and mountains, and consider bringing a picnic to enjoy by the water.
Tips: Visit during the late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and bring water shoes for comfort. Check the creek's flow conditions before your visit as it can vary greatly depending on recent weather.
Dinner
19:30 - 20:30
Day 2 : Mountain Adventures
Today, we will embark on a mountain adventure starting with a visit to Crestone Needle in the morning. After a lunch break, we will continue our exploration at Crestone Peak.
Crestone Needle
9:00 - 12:00
Embark on a thrilling hike to the summit of Crestone Needle, one of Colorado's famous fourteeners. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo Range and the surrounding wilderness. Capture stunning photos of the rugged terrain and diverse flora and fauna.
Tips: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in July. Ensure you have proper hiking gear, plenty of water, and a map or GPS as the trail can be challenging. Check local weather conditions before your hike.
Lunch Break
12:30 - 13:30
Crestone Peak
14:00 - 17:00
Hike to the summit of Crestone Peak to enjoy breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. Explore the surrounding trails and take in the natural beauty of the Sangre de Cristo Range. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Tips: Start your hike early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in July. Make sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Check local weather conditions before your hike and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Day 3 : Nature and Relaxation
On our final day, we will immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness in the morning. After a relaxing lunch break, we will spend the afternoon exploring the serene South Colony Lakes.
Sangre de Cristo Wilderness
9:00 - 12:00
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, which spans over 220,803 acres. Enjoy hiking through the diverse terrain, from lush forests to alpine meadows. Take in the stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Range and discover hidden waterfalls and serene lakes along the trails.
Tips: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and ensure you have enough time to explore. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Be aware of wildlife and always stay on marked trails. Check local weather conditions before heading out.
Lunch Break
12:30 - 13:30
South Colony Lakes
14:00 - 17:00
Explore the stunning alpine scenery and crystal-clear waters of South Colony Lakes. Enjoy a peaceful hike around the lakes, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, and perhaps even try some fishing. The area is perfect for photography, so don't forget your camera.
Tips: Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection as you will be visiting in the afternoon. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so pack layers and be prepared for sudden changes. Check local guidelines for fishing permits if you plan to fish.
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