Save this Guide to Backpacking the Great Sand Dunes🏔️ 📍4 hours from Denver 📅 Permit for “Dunes Backcountry” required. 🥾 It’s at least 1.5 mile hike from the visitor center. You’re allowed to camp if you can no longer see the visitor center.  What to Bring: 🧊 Warm layers (it can get cold at night) 🚰 1 gallon of water per person (no water source) 🥾 We hiked barefoot in wool socks, but hiking boots are fine too. The sand is cold during the winter or hot during the summer ⛺ Sand stakes instead of regular tent stakes 🔦 Headlamp 🧢🕶️☀️ Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)  Things to Know: ♻️ Pack out your trash 🥾 Hiking in sand is TOUGH! Especially with a heavy pack. Come prepared.  🗓️ Best season: possible year-round, fall/spring for mild weather. Winter is doable with warm gear! ⛈️ Check the wind forecast 🚙 Park pass required 🏔️ Acclimate if you’re coming from low elevation (risk of altitude sickness)  Is this backpacking trip on your bucket list?  #ReadySetCO ...