To the Great Sand Dune National Park!

https://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm

 The tallest sand dunes in the U. S. are found here.  A dramatic picture presented itself as we drove into the National Park.  The sand dunes were made even more impressive with the beautiful mountains in the background.  Picking the best time of day for taking photos became a great game.  Late afternoon proved to be the best time.

There are 6 endemic species of insects found here.  Nowhere else on earth can you find the Great Sand Dunes Tiger Beetle.  Many animals (birds, amphibians and mammals) are also found here.  In fact over 200 species of birds use this area as their habitat.

Black-billed Magpie

Sangre de Christo Mountains in background
The dune field and much of the mountains are designated as wilderness

I love capturing sand dunes in pictures.  The forms and edges, the lights and darks are ever changing.

The Medano Creek - fun to wade across and play in the sand.