Great Sand Dunes National Preserve (Sangres): Medano Lake Basecamp & 13ers Loop

PLEASE READ EVERYTHING BEFORE RESPONDING!
Everyone, up to group size of 10 people will be moved off the wait list if they have completed 1 and 2 below. Well-behaved, leashed trail dogs are welcome as long as they have completed a qualifying hike.

Required actions before trip:
1 – *Fill out waiver: https://forms.gle/71SPiqc4iyqDmD8Y7
2 – *Complete a qualifying hike. Check the calendar regularly for upcoming opportunities.
3- Attend a pre-planning Google meeting one week before trip start date (will send invite via Google closer to).
*including any +1

Another early season trip dependent on continued low snow levels

Trip difficulty: Intermediate
3 days / 2 nights, ~8.7 miles, ~3,450 ft gain (plus optional peaks)
Route: https://caltopo.com/m/5U02NPJ

Day 1 (6/5): Drive to trailhead (~2.5 hours), high clearance may be needed.
6.52 miles, +2667′ / -784′

• Includes potential ~2.5 miles road hiking if no 4×4 vehicle (and confident driver)
• Early season conditions: snow patches, dead fall, creek crossings
• Plan to camp just before Medano Lake near the creek

Day 2 (6/6): 13er Peak loop from Medano Lake (Class 2)
2.14 miles, +2443′ / -1572′

• Medano Peak > ridgeline > Mount Herard > descend to lake
• Enjoy views of sand dunes from above
• Optional add-on if time/weather permits: Nearby 12er: 1.96 miles, +1715′ / -1715′

Day 3 (6/7): Hike out
6.52 miles, +784,-2667
Optional stop in Westcliffe for food