Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Couples Session in Colorado, Marcus and Seraphina

Colorado Adventure Photographer

Great Sand Dunes National Park might just be one of the most breathtaking locations I’ve ever visited. As you can imagine, I was thrilled to shoot to a couple’s adventure session here at the end of the summer, right before the weather became too cold in Colorado. The sand dunes are overwhelming expansive! It takes about two hours to climb to the top of the tallest dune, Star Dune, so an adventure photography session here isn’t for the faint of heart!

Seraphina and Marcus were more than willing to participate in this fun adventure! Due to the wind throwing sand in our eyes and a chance of thunderstorms, we stayed on lower ground. I didn’t want to risk being out in lightning without cover! I love their energy and the joy you can feel through the photos.

About the Location – Great Sand Dunes National Park

As mentioned, Star Dune is a trek to hike to the top. It’s the tallest sand dune in North America at 750 feet! Even though you can’t control the weather, I would highly recommend shooting during a sunny day here, as the light creates amazing depth and dimension to the dunes.

This national park isn’t only dunes. It has beautiful trails through a forest and stunning views of nearby mountains. There is also a hidden waterfall not too far away.

Great Sand Dunes National Park offers camping for individual sites and group sites. To reserve these coveted camps sites, plan your visit one year to six months in advance. Especially if you plan to visit in late May or early June when the park experiences “surge flow” where snowmelt creates waves in Medano Creek. Due to the very large crowds during this time, it isn’t ideal for a wedding or even a photo shoot. In fact, for visits during this time, campsites usually book to capacity within minutes of going available online six months in advance.

In my opinion, September offers the best weather for a wedding or photo shoot. The sand temperatures are slightly cooler, but can still reach temperatures up to 150 degrees. Morning is best for climbing the dunes. Plus, during September, the aspen trees begin to turn to a beautiful golden.

To schedule a wedding or photo shoot, you must acquire a permit from the National Park Service. Information on obtaining a permit for photography can be found here! Apply for the permit as early as possible to allow for processing time! Don’t worry, I’m here to help with this process!

Plan Your Sand Dunes National Park Adventure Session

Do you love Seraphina and Marcus’s adventure photo session? If you enjoy outdoor adventures and want to capture a special time in your relationship, like an anniversary, engagement or vow renewal, consider scheduling a couple’s adventure session at Sand Dunes National Park. National Parks offer beautiful and unique scenery to express your unique relationship. I love helping couples plan a fun adventure, captured the lasting memories with photographs that bring you back to these beautiful outdoor settings every time you look through them.

About Map + Compass Photography

As an adventure wedding photographer and guide, I work with a variety of couples in locations all over the world. National Park weddings and photo shoots remain some of my favorite sessions because of the natural beauty that allows couples to relax and enjoy the adventure.

I founded Map + Compass from my passion to help couples create celebrations true to their personalities and unique relationships. Contact me to discuss your vision for your wedding day or adventure couple’s session!