San Luis SP, CO - Oct 2007

We had been to San Luis Lake State Park about four years ago. Its allure, other than being a good stopping off point between Colorado and New Mexico, is its proximity to the Great Sand Dunes National Park. It also boasts of spectacular views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and an abundance of waterfowl. The park was devoid of humans when we arrived (no campers, hosts nor rangers) and we spent the first night totally alone. It was a bit spooky since the park is about 20 miles from any civilization. But, on the other hand, it was so quiet and peaceful and the night skies were gorgeous with all the stars. Plus, we could let the doggies off leash on our walks and they really enjoyed that.

We had also been to the Sand Dunes on our previous trip and had such a good time that we wanted to go again. This time, however, was not so pleasant. A fierce wind sandblasted us into submission and we only wandered a few yards from the parking lot before giving up.


The dogs were especially miserable since the blowing sand was right at their eye level. We finally gave up and carried them back to the car and left the park. We were still finding grains of sand on our bodies -- even days later.