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![National Park Service: U.S. Department of the Interior](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081009105503im_/http://www.nps.gov/imr/templates/images/graphics/prntarrw.gif) ![National Park Service Arrowhead](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081009105503im_/http://www.nps.gov/imr/templates/images/graphics/prnttitl.gif) |
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Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Weather
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![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081009105503im_/http://www.nps.gov/imr/templates/images/graphics/spacer.gif) |
![sandhill cranes in spring migration sandhill cranes in spring migration](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081009105503im_/http://www.nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/images/sandhill_cranes_wetland.jpg) |
Sandhill cranes are often seen in springtime. |
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Following is weather information for each season. For a current forecast, call the National Weather Service for the San Luis Valley at (719) 589-3232, or visit the National Weather Service online forecast for the main visitor area of the park. Because the park ranges in elevation from 7500' to over 13,000', this forecast is only valid for the 8000' level, where the main parking area and Visitor Center are located.
Spring can sometimes bring high winds, especially in the afternoon. Temperatures may vary widely: highs may reach into the 60s F, or only into the 30s F with an even colder windchill. Lows can also vary from 0 degrees F to the 30s F. March and April are the snowiest months of the year, but some days, especially in later spring when Medano Creek is flowing, can also be swimsuit weather.
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![medano_creek_dunes_herard_surge_2005 medano_creek_dunes_herard_surge_2005](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081009105503im_/http://www.nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/images/medano_creek_dunes_herard_surge_2005.jpg) |
NPS Photo by Patrick Myers | Medano Creek flows in late spring and early summer during normal to wet years. |
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In summer, daytime air temperatures average in the 70s-80s F. However, sand surface temperatures can soar to 140 degrees F on sunny summer afternoons. Summer nights are surprisingly cool, thanks to our elevation of 8200' above sea level. Even in summer, warm layered clothing is recommended, as lows may drop into the 40s. After dark, a warm coat or a blanket are necessities. Afternoon thundershowers are common in July and August with associated winds and lightning. Be prepared to leave the dunes promptly if thunderstorms threaten: lightning strikes are common and can be fatal.
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![Mosca Creek, Fall Mosca Creek, Fall](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081009105503im_/http://www.nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/images/moscacreekfall.jpg) |
NPS Photo by Patrick Myers | Fall colors along Mosca Creek |
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Fall is generally mild, with Indian summer days. Highs average in the 60s - 70s F, with chilly nights in the 20s - 30s F. Be prepared, though, for the occasional cold fall storm, bringing icy rain or even snow.
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![Fresh snow on dunefield and Sangre de Cristo Mountains Fresh snow on dunefield and Sangre de Cristo Mountains](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081009105503im_/http://www.nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/images/snow_dunes_panorama_crestones285.jpg) |
NPS Photo by Patrick Myers | Fresh snow on dunefield and Sangre de Cristo Mountains |
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Cold temperatures are the norm in winter, even though sunshine is generally abundant. The lowest temperature recorded at Great Sand Dunes was minus 25 degrees in 1963. Average highs are in the 20s-40s F, with lows averaging minus 5 degrees F below zero to 15 degrees F above zero. Snow may fall and high winds may occasionally occur, so bring warm, layered clothing and sturdy footwear.
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![Crestone Peaks Crestone Peaks](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081009105503im_/http://www.nps.gov/imr/customcf/apps/CMS_HandF/Pictures/GRSA_diduknow_crestones_baca.gif) |
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Did You Know?
Some of the most dramatic views of the 14,000' Crestone Peaks are from the north side of Great Sand Dunes National Park.
more...
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Last Updated: July 25, 2006 at 00:23 EST |