Great Sand Dunes Self Guided National Park Audio Tour
Shaka Guide Apps
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Walk across the tallest sand dunes in North America and explore Great Sand Dunes National Park at your own pace. A friendly narrator tells you stories about how the wind and rivers shaped these giant dunes and about the people who lived here long ago. You can start at the Visitor Center, then climb the dunes, feel the sand in your toes, or slide down like you’re on a playground. Hike to Zapata Fall, stroll the Montville Nature Trail under aspen trees, and follow the Dunes Overlook Trail for big views. And, if you have time, walk the Mosca Pass Trail if you have more time. This tour works without cell service. It gives turn by turn directions, travel tips as you explore and it never expires. Download the tour, walk in the sand, tell your friends about dunes, waterfalls, and stories of Great Sand Dunes National Park enjoy this amazing park your way. *Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours*
Departure Point
- This meeting point is just outside of town, northbound on CO-17.
Return Details
- This meeting point is just outside of town, northbound on CO-17.
Duration
11 hours - 12 hours
Languages Available
- Audio guide - English
Points of Interest
Stop At: Blanca Wetlands, BLM
Alamosa, CO 81101
Take an informative detour to Blanca Wetlands, a restored oasis that offers a glimpse into the San Luis Valley's past before agricultural drainage transformed the landscape. This Bureau of Land Management project, initiated in 1965, showcases the vital role wetlands play in supporting water quality, soil health, and wildlife migration. Though closed during nesting season (February through July), this site tells an important restoration story.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: UFO Watchtower
2502 County Road 61, , Hooper, Colorado
The UFO watchtower–a place to celebrate the strange, otherworldly, and improbable occurrences which have long intrigued visitors to San Luis Valley. Believers come from all over for a chance to see interstellar beings or, at least, to meet up with other alien enthusiasts. Think you’d like to see…what’s out there? If so, stopping by will only cost you a few bucks, and our perception of our place in the universe.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Colorado Gators Reptile Park
9162 County Road 9 North, Mosca, Colorado
In a surprising twist of Colorado history, what began as a tilapia farm's solution to waste management evolved into a unique wildlife refuge for alligators. After purchasing about a hundred baby gators to handle dead fish, the farm transformed into a public attraction in 1990, drawing crowds curious to see these prehistoric predators thriving in the desert environment. Today, the Colorado Gator Farm has expanded beyond its scaly beginnings to become a sanctuary for various rescued exotic animals, including tortoises, snakes, and even sharks all finding an unlikely home in the San Luis Valley.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center
29477 Highway 159, , Fort Garland, Colorado
Fort Garland Museum, located in Colorado's San Luis Valley, preserves an 1858 military fort that once protected settlers and served as a base for the legendary Buffalo Soldiers. The adobe fort complex includes original buildings with exhibits on frontier military life, the Buffalo Soldiers, and the history of the San Luis Valley.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Zapata Falls
, , Mosca, Colorado
This hidden waterfall is tucked away inside a cave at the end of a short but adventurous hike less than a mile round trip. Getting to the 25 foot falls means splashing through water and scrambling over rocks, so if you have waterproof shoes, you’ll want to break ‘em out for this one.
Duration: 2 hours
Stop At: Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
Colorado
Begin your visit at the Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center, where you can explore exhibits about the park's unique geology, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural history. Pick up maps, watch an engaging orientation film, and get tips from rangers on the best trails or activities for your visit. This is the perfect starting point to plan your adventure in the towering dunes and beyond.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Montville Nature Trail
Montville Nature Trail is the shortest and easiest forest hike in the park, traversing through the former Montville townsite. It’s a quick half mile through shady Aspen forests. At about three quarters of the way in, you’ll break out to the highpoint, which offers a sweeping view of the dunes from above the trees. If you decide to do one trail in the park, I’d recommend this one.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Mosca Pass Trail
11999 State Highway 150, Colorado
Mosca Pass is a moderately difficult 7 mile long trail that continues from Montville Nature Trail, taking you to a pass in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains. It’s nice and shady, but not necessarily one of my favorites, so I’d recommend saving it for the if-you-have-time category.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Wellington Ditch Trail
The Wellington Ditch Trail is just under 2 miles of a relatively flat hike through pinon and juniper trees, ending at the Pinon Flats Campground. The trail follows an old hand-dug irrigation ditch dug by the Wellington family in 1927, and offers a few vantage points overlooking the dunes. Just keep in mind, this hike is one way.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Medano Pass Primitive Road
Medano Pass Primitive Road, CO 81146
Medano Pass Primitive Road offers a rugged 22 mile backcountry adventure through stunning landscapes, including sandy creek crossings and lush meadows. Along the route, stop at Castle Creek Picnic Area for breathtaking views of the dunes and mountains, and look out for wildlife like deer and elk. Most notably, this is where the seasonal floods of Medano Creek create a temporary beach, complete with surging waves. High clearance 4WD vehicles are required, making this bumpy, sandy ride an exciting way to explore the park’s remote beauty.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Sand Ramp Trail
CO 81146
The Sand Ramp Trail is a moderate 11 mile (one way) trek that winds along the base of the dunes, offering sweeping views of the sand and Sangre de Cristo Mountains. For the first few miles, it follows along the Medano Pass Primitive Road. While the views are not a notable as some other trails, it does provide a quiet, peaceful
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: San Luis State Wildlife Area
16399 Lane 6 North, Mosca, CO 81146
The San Luis Wildlife Area is a lesser known but ecologically rich area in southern Colorado, near the San Luis Valley. Managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, it consists of a mix of wetlands, grasslands, and riparian areas that provide essential habitat for migratory birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife.
Duration: 1 hour
Additional Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Additional Starting Points: Moffat and Fort Garland
- Get Started Easily: • Book Your Tour: Receive a confirmation and easy instructions via email. • Download the App: Follow the simple steps in your email. • Redeem the Tour: Use the redeem code in your email to redeem the tour in the app. • Prepare Ahead: Download the tour using strong Wi-Fi.
- Begin Your Journey: • Select Your Tour: Go to the My Stuff tab in the Shaka Guide app to launch the tour. • Start the Tour: Select the tour starting point and follow the GPS instructions. • Follow Shaka Guide: Stick to the suggested route and speed for the best experience.
- Why Choose Our Audio Tour: • Cost-Efficient: One tour for the entire vehicle—no per-person fees! • Ultimate Flexibility: Start, pause, and resume on your schedule. • Convenience: Use the tour any day, over multiple days if needed.
- Top Features: • Hands-Free: The tour works automatically - GPS-activated stories, directions, and music play as you drive for a seamless experience. • Works Offline: No need for continuous wifi or data. • Reliable Support: Get help via call, chat, or email.
- Private and Personalized: • Crowd-Free: Enjoy a private tour with just your group. • Customizable Stops: Pick the stops you want and skip the ones you don’t!
- The Ultimate Guided Tour: • Detailed Itinerary: Includes travel tips and recommendations. • Engaging Narration: Captivating stories and history.
- What Our Users Say: • “A fantastic way to explore! Easy to use and very informative.” • “Loved the flexibility to stop and go as we pleased. Highly recommend!”
- Tours NEVER expire
- Freedom to explore at your own pace
- Offline map (no wifi or data needed)
- Turn-by-turn directions using GPS
- Hours of audio narration with stories, travel tips and music
- Audio narration that plays automatically as you drive
Exclusions
- Private transportation
- Entrance Fees
- Parking Fees
- Meals and Refreshments
Redemption Instructions
HOW TO REDEEM YOUR TOUR:
Thank you for purchasing the Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Before you start your adventure, you'll need to redeem and download the tour in the Shaka Guide app. Follow the instructions below:
*Please Note: The redeem code is the 10-digit booking reference number on your ticket (located under the barcode).
1. Download the Shaka Guide App in the App Store or Google Play Store (or use the link at the bottom of this email)
2. Open the app and go to the support tab
3. Click Account Settings
4. Click Retrieve Purchases
5. Select Use Redeem Code (the 10-digit booking reference number on your ticket, located under the barcode)
6. Sign up with your email ID
7. Enter the redeem code shared above in the message.
Once you've redeemed your tour, you'll find it under "My Stuff" in the app.
For a smooth ride, download the tour with wifi before you go.
We can't wait for you to explore with Shaka Guide!
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to aloha@shakaguide.com or call (808) 201-8138
DOWNLOAD THE APP HERE: www.shakaguide.com/download
Voucher Info
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
The tour identified in this promotion is made available through Viator. Groupon is not affiliated with or sponsored by the Shaka Guide Apps in connection with this deal. Please contact Groupon customer service for all inquiries related to this offer. Inquiries placed to Viator will be directed back to Groupon.
This offer is not eligible for promo codes.
Walk across the tallest sand dunes in North America and explore Great Sand Dunes National Park at your own pace. A friendly narrator tells you stories about how the wind and rivers shaped these giant dunes and about the people who lived here long ago. You can start at the Visitor Center, then climb the dunes, feel the sand in your toes, or slide down like you’re on a playground. Hike to Zapata Fall, stroll the Montville Nature Trail under aspen trees, and follow the Dunes Overlook Trail for big views. And, if you have time, walk the Mosca Pass Trail if you have more time. This tour works without cell service. It gives turn by turn directions, travel tips as you explore and it never expires. Download the tour, walk in the sand, tell your friends about dunes, waterfalls, and stories of Great Sand Dunes National Park enjoy this amazing park your way. *Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours*
Departure Point
- This meeting point is just outside of town, northbound on CO-17.
Return Details
- This meeting point is just outside of town, northbound on CO-17.
Duration
11 hours - 12 hours
Languages Available
- Audio guide - English
Points of Interest
Stop At: Blanca Wetlands, BLM
Alamosa, CO 81101
Take an informative detour to Blanca Wetlands, a restored oasis that offers a glimpse into the San Luis Valley's past before agricultural drainage transformed the landscape. This Bureau of Land Management project, initiated in 1965, showcases the vital role wetlands play in supporting water quality, soil health, and wildlife migration. Though closed during nesting season (February through July), this site tells an important restoration story.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: UFO Watchtower
2502 County Road 61, , Hooper, Colorado
The UFO watchtower–a place to celebrate the strange, otherworldly, and improbable occurrences which have long intrigued visitors to San Luis Valley. Believers come from all over for a chance to see interstellar beings or, at least, to meet up with other alien enthusiasts. Think you’d like to see…what’s out there? If so, stopping by will only cost you a few bucks, and our perception of our place in the universe.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Colorado Gators Reptile Park
9162 County Road 9 North, Mosca, Colorado
In a surprising twist of Colorado history, what began as a tilapia farm's solution to waste management evolved into a unique wildlife refuge for alligators. After purchasing about a hundred baby gators to handle dead fish, the farm transformed into a public attraction in 1990, drawing crowds curious to see these prehistoric predators thriving in the desert environment. Today, the Colorado Gator Farm has expanded beyond its scaly beginnings to become a sanctuary for various rescued exotic animals, including tortoises, snakes, and even sharks all finding an unlikely home in the San Luis Valley.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center
29477 Highway 159, , Fort Garland, Colorado
Fort Garland Museum, located in Colorado's San Luis Valley, preserves an 1858 military fort that once protected settlers and served as a base for the legendary Buffalo Soldiers. The adobe fort complex includes original buildings with exhibits on frontier military life, the Buffalo Soldiers, and the history of the San Luis Valley.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Zapata Falls
, , Mosca, Colorado
This hidden waterfall is tucked away inside a cave at the end of a short but adventurous hike less than a mile round trip. Getting to the 25 foot falls means splashing through water and scrambling over rocks, so if you have waterproof shoes, you’ll want to break ‘em out for this one.
Duration: 2 hours
Stop At: Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
Colorado
Begin your visit at the Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center, where you can explore exhibits about the park's unique geology, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural history. Pick up maps, watch an engaging orientation film, and get tips from rangers on the best trails or activities for your visit. This is the perfect starting point to plan your adventure in the towering dunes and beyond.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Montville Nature Trail
Montville Nature Trail is the shortest and easiest forest hike in the park, traversing through the former Montville townsite. It’s a quick half mile through shady Aspen forests. At about three quarters of the way in, you’ll break out to the highpoint, which offers a sweeping view of the dunes from above the trees. If you decide to do one trail in the park, I’d recommend this one.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Mosca Pass Trail
11999 State Highway 150, Colorado
Mosca Pass is a moderately difficult 7 mile long trail that continues from Montville Nature Trail, taking you to a pass in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains. It’s nice and shady, but not necessarily one of my favorites, so I’d recommend saving it for the if-you-have-time category.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Wellington Ditch Trail
The Wellington Ditch Trail is just under 2 miles of a relatively flat hike through pinon and juniper trees, ending at the Pinon Flats Campground. The trail follows an old hand-dug irrigation ditch dug by the Wellington family in 1927, and offers a few vantage points overlooking the dunes. Just keep in mind, this hike is one way.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Medano Pass Primitive Road
Medano Pass Primitive Road, CO 81146
Medano Pass Primitive Road offers a rugged 22 mile backcountry adventure through stunning landscapes, including sandy creek crossings and lush meadows. Along the route, stop at Castle Creek Picnic Area for breathtaking views of the dunes and mountains, and look out for wildlife like deer and elk. Most notably, this is where the seasonal floods of Medano Creek create a temporary beach, complete with surging waves. High clearance 4WD vehicles are required, making this bumpy, sandy ride an exciting way to explore the park’s remote beauty.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Sand Ramp Trail
CO 81146
The Sand Ramp Trail is a moderate 11 mile (one way) trek that winds along the base of the dunes, offering sweeping views of the sand and Sangre de Cristo Mountains. For the first few miles, it follows along the Medano Pass Primitive Road. While the views are not a notable as some other trails, it does provide a quiet, peaceful
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: San Luis State Wildlife Area
16399 Lane 6 North, Mosca, CO 81146
The San Luis Wildlife Area is a lesser known but ecologically rich area in southern Colorado, near the San Luis Valley. Managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, it consists of a mix of wetlands, grasslands, and riparian areas that provide essential habitat for migratory birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife.
Duration: 1 hour
Additional Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Additional Starting Points: Moffat and Fort Garland
- Get Started Easily: • Book Your Tour: Receive a confirmation and easy instructions via email. • Download the App: Follow the simple steps in your email. • Redeem the Tour: Use the redeem code in your email to redeem the tour in the app. • Prepare Ahead: Download the tour using strong Wi-Fi.
- Begin Your Journey: • Select Your Tour: Go to the My Stuff tab in the Shaka Guide app to launch the tour. • Start the Tour: Select the tour starting point and follow the GPS instructions. • Follow Shaka Guide: Stick to the suggested route and speed for the best experience.
- Why Choose Our Audio Tour: • Cost-Efficient: One tour for the entire vehicle—no per-person fees! • Ultimate Flexibility: Start, pause, and resume on your schedule. • Convenience: Use the tour any day, over multiple days if needed.
- Top Features: • Hands-Free: The tour works automatically - GPS-activated stories, directions, and music play as you drive for a seamless experience. • Works Offline: No need for continuous wifi or data. • Reliable Support: Get help via call, chat, or email.
- Private and Personalized: • Crowd-Free: Enjoy a private tour with just your group. • Customizable Stops: Pick the stops you want and skip the ones you don’t!
- The Ultimate Guided Tour: • Detailed Itinerary: Includes travel tips and recommendations. • Engaging Narration: Captivating stories and history.
- What Our Users Say: • “A fantastic way to explore! Easy to use and very informative.” • “Loved the flexibility to stop and go as we pleased. Highly recommend!”
- Tours NEVER expire
- Freedom to explore at your own pace
- Offline map (no wifi or data needed)
- Turn-by-turn directions using GPS
- Hours of audio narration with stories, travel tips and music
- Audio narration that plays automatically as you drive
Exclusions
- Private transportation
- Entrance Fees
- Parking Fees
- Meals and Refreshments
Redemption Instructions
HOW TO REDEEM YOUR TOUR:
Thank you for purchasing the Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Before you start your adventure, you'll need to redeem and download the tour in the Shaka Guide app. Follow the instructions below:
*Please Note: The redeem code is the 10-digit booking reference number on your ticket (located under the barcode).
1. Download the Shaka Guide App in the App Store or Google Play Store (or use the link at the bottom of this email)
2. Open the app and go to the support tab
3. Click Account Settings
4. Click Retrieve Purchases
5. Select Use Redeem Code (the 10-digit booking reference number on your ticket, located under the barcode)
6. Sign up with your email ID
7. Enter the redeem code shared above in the message.
Once you've redeemed your tour, you'll find it under "My Stuff" in the app.
For a smooth ride, download the tour with wifi before you go.
We can't wait for you to explore with Shaka Guide!
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to aloha@shakaguide.com or call (808) 201-8138
DOWNLOAD THE APP HERE: www.shakaguide.com/download
Voucher Info
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
The tour identified in this promotion is made available through Viator. Groupon is not affiliated with or sponsored by the Shaka Guide Apps in connection with this deal. Please contact Groupon customer service for all inquiries related to this offer. Inquiries placed to Viator will be directed back to Groupon.
This offer is not eligible for promo codes.
Need To Know Info
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services. Offer is not eligible for our promo codes or other discounts. Learn about Strike-Through Pricing and Savings