Day 10: Mesa Verde National Park to Great Sand Dunes National Park

On Thursday, September 22, 2022, I checked out of Retro Inn at Mesa Verde and drove to Best Western Alamosa.

There are two routes from Cortez, CO, to Alamosa, CO: US Highway 160 all the way, or a combination of US Highway 160 and US Highway 84, which dips briefly into New Mexico before re-entering Colorado. I had read that Highway 160 can be a dangerous road to drive on, particularly the stretch beyond Highway 84 known as Wolf Creek Pass, as it features steep 7% downhill grades and dangerous hairpin turns. Since it was raining heavily that day, I opted for the Highway 84 route.

I left Retro Inn at Mesa Verde around 9am and arrived at Best Western Alamosa around 12pm. Once again, luck was on my side, the room was ready, and they allowed me to check in early.

I chose to stay there because it was only a mile from downtown Alamosa, the closest town to Great Sand Dunes National Park, and just a 32-mile drive to the park. It was also relatively affordable, costing $350.04 for three nights in September 2022.

After checking in, I headed out to explore downtown Alamosa, taking a relaxing walk around town. Knowing the next day would be a long one, I returned to the hotel around 5pm to unwind and get an early night’s rest.