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Indian Grove: A Cultural Tapestry Woven into the Landscape

Discover a unique blend of nature and Native American history at Indian Grove, where scarred ponderosa pines whisper tales of the past.

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Indian Grove, nestled within Great Sand Dunes National Park, is a unique archaeological site featuring a stand of ponderosa pine trees scarred by indigenous peoples in the 1800s. These culturally modified trees, peeled for their bark's medicinal and practical uses, offer a tangible link to the past within a stunning natural setting.

A brief summary to Indian Grove

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking during the warmer months, as the area can be quite dry.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes suitable for uneven terrain and potential sandy conditions.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
  • Be respectful of the site's historical significance by not touching or disturbing the trees.
  • Consider visiting during the spring or fall for more moderate temperatures and fewer crowds.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Alamosa, take US Highway 160 east to State Highway 150 north. Follow Highway 150 to the entrance of Great Sand Dunes National Park. Once inside the park, continue towards the Visitor Center. From the Visitor Center, follow signs for the Sand Ramp Trail. The trailhead for Indian Grove is located along this trail. Park entrance fee is $25 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.

  • Walking

    From the Pinon Flats Campground, follow the Sand Ramp Trail. The trail is generally easy to navigate and offers views of the dunes and surrounding forests. Indian Grove is located a short distance from the campground along the trail. Be sure to carry water and wear appropriate footwear. No additional costs beyond the park entrance fee.

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Discover more about Indian Grove

Indian Grove, located within Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, presents a compelling intersection of natural beauty and cultural history. This site features a grove of approximately 200 ponderosa pine trees, 72 of which bear the marks of early indigenous people. These aren't just any trees; they are culturally modified trees, living artifacts reflecting the practices of the Ute, Apache, and other native groups who inhabited this region. Between the early 1800s and the early 1900s, these groups peeled strips of bark from the ponderosa pines. The scars left behind tell a story of resourcefulness and survival. The inner bark was used for food and medicine, while the outer bark served in crafting items like trays and baskets. The grove's location near Medano Creek and Medano Pass, which provided access to the Wet Mountain Valley, made it a favorable spot for Native American groups. Today, visitors can explore Indian Grove via the Sand Ramp Trail, immersing themselves in both the serenity of the forest and the palpable sense of history. The site is also home to a backcountry campsite with a solar-composting toilet, offering a unique overnight experience. Indian Grove stands as the only stand of culturally modified trees listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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