National Parks
Comparing Colorado's National Parks
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Location: Southern Colorado
Known for: Its land-locked towering sand dunes
Biggest crowds: June through August
Accessibility: The road only goes from the park entrance to the visitor center; you'll want to walk or hike the dunes.
Why kids like it: They can play in the sand, build sand castles, and slide down the dunes on saucers.
What hikers say: Climb the High Dune for the most scenic view of the dunes; walk in the Preserve to trek on wooded trails to a fabulous view of 13,000-foot mountains.
Best for:Birds, Bison
Mesa Verde National Park
Location: Southwestern Colorado
Known for: Hundreds of ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings.
Biggest crowds: Mid-June through August
Accessibility: You can see some of the park from scenic road overlooks, but taking a guided hike is your best bet.
Why kids like it: You don't see clusters of ancient stone houses on cliffs every day!
What hikers say: Be aware that hiking is restricted, and you're sometimes required to have a ranger as a guide.
Best for:Caves & Caverns
Rocky Mountain National Park
Location: North-central Colorado
Known for: Alpine lakes and scenic peaks.
Biggest crowds: Summer
Accessibility: The park's shuttle will take you to the main sites.
Why kids like it: There are elk everywhere.
What hikers say: Remember to pace yourself, since you're at a higher elevation—but the views are definitely worth it.
Best for:Birds, Bison, Majestic Mountains, Climbing, Fishing, Horseback Riding, Winter Recreation
