Inspiring travel stories, tips, and guides from a couple exploring the world one destination at a time.
Last Updated: May 24, 2026
From the Great Sand Dunes we drove a couple of hours to Colorado Springs, Colorado. There were so many things to see and do in Colorado Springs, but we only had time for Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and Costco.
Last Updated: May 24, 2026
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve sits in south-central Colorado, nestled against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. These are the tallest sand dunes in North America, covering a dunefield of about 30 square miles, with the highest dunes rising more than 740 feet from base to crest. It was only a two-hour drive from Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
Last Updated: May 24, 2026
After visiting Mesa Verde National Park, we settled in at the western-slope towns of Durango and Pagosa Springs, Colorado. The area sits only about 35 miles from New Mexico, enjoys a milder climate than much of the state thanks to its 7,000-foot elevation, and is framed by a stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop. We split our stay between the two towns, soaking in hot springs, chasing snowmelt waterfalls, and wandering historic streets.
