Wellington Ditch Trail

Experience the Great Sand Dunes from another perspective along the Wellington Ditch Trail. The easy terrain and short distance enable this trek to be enjoyed by explorers of all skill levels and ages. Though this trek is open year-round, we enjoy this hike most in the autumn when the aspens are at their peak vibrance. Be sure to charge your camera because this scenic excursion warrants plenty of photo opportunities. Note that the National Park charges an entrance fee of $25USD for 1-6 passenger vehicles, providing access to all the trails and attractions within the park.

Embark on your exciting journey along the Wellington Ditch Trail from the Mosca Pass Trailhead. Setting out from here, take the leftmost Montville Nature Trail, which will intensely climb up a rocky ridge. Soon after your departure from the trailhead, you will meet an intersection, veer left here, and you will be diverted onto the Wellington Ditch Trail. Now hiking north, this scenic route will weave between dense woodlands and exposed meadows which deliver breathtaking views of the sand dunes in the west.

Crossing over several alpine streams, you will eventually reach the trail’s end at the Pinyon Flats Campground. Here, turnaround and retrace your steps along the path all the way back to the trailhead.