GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK and PRESERVE — In early February, visitors to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve enjoyed a warm reprieve from winter weather, with daytime highs of about 58 degrees — 20 degrees above the average daily high. This warm spell is expected to last through Sunday, making weekend visits a walk in the park. 

As of the morning of Thursday, Feb. 6, the dunes were free of snow; the Mountville Nature Trail and the Wellington Ditch trail mainly were free of snow and, in places, a bit muddy. 

The Wellington Ditch Trail affords excellent views of Mount Herard and, during a recent weekday hike, free of other hikers. 

It's important to remember that this warm spell is only temporary. In February, the park (at the visitor center) has average highs of 39 degrees and lows of 14. Snow and blizzards are possible, so it's crucial to be prepared. Just two weeks ago, the park experienced a low of minus 14 degrees. 

The Mosca Pass Trail has lots of slushy snow in the afternoons, so bring good waterproof shoes and snow traction gear/spokes for those boots.   

Birding in Great Sand Dunes is always great, and on a recent visit, numerous red–breasted nuthatches were seen along the aforementioned trails. Later this month, the sandhill cranes will begin their return, most visible at the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge. 

While the National Weather Service predicts this warm spell to last through Sunday, it's important to remember that weather in the Rockies is always unpredictable, especially in winter. So, it's best to be prepared for sudden changes and potential cold spells.