October 3, 2017
Joy Webb
Colorado is a gold mine when it comes to spontaneous outdoor destinations.
Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of these wondrous places that adventurers can visit. It is also the next destination on the Student Outdoor Learning Experience’s calendar.
On Oct. 7, students will have the opportunity to sand and ski board at the Sand Dunes through S.O.L.E., who have provided the trip at a cost of $40. Transportation and rental equipment is included in the cost.
Out of 11 total spots, eight students have registered to go on the trip. Registration opened on Sept. 25, and students are still able to sign up.
S.O.L.E. member Chad Frankenberger will lead the trip. According to Frankenberger, a senior mechanical engineering major, few students have the experience of going to the Sand Dunes since it is three hours away.
“We want students to be able to experience it. It’s a fun time, and we haven’t been there in a few years,” he said.
The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a popular destination to visit in Colorado. According to the National Park Service, 320,000 people visit the park annually.
Prior to this trip, S.O.L.E went backpacking in the Rockies over Labor Day weekend, skydiving, standup paddle boarding, night hiking and stargazing at Garden of the Gods, mountain biking in Winter Park and rock climbing.
“We have been maxing out our spots on every trip so far. Turnout has been great,” said Frankenburger.
After S.O.L.E visits the Great Sand Dunes, they will go to the Wild and Scenic Film Festival on Oct. 20.
To register for the Sand Dunes or upcoming trips, visit uccs.edu/recwellness/campus-rec/outdoor/outdoor-trips.