Zapata Falls

Last night we camped in a BLM campground outside of Great Sand Dunes National Park, called Zapata Falls. This morning, before our visit to the dunes to try some sledding and sandboarding, we did the short hike to the campground's namesake. The parking area for the hike has a wonderful view of the dunes and an interesting little sculpture.

We hit the trail in the cool of the morning. 

It is a pretty easy hike with lots of benches to stop at, 

though it is a bit rocky.

Before too long, we could hear a rush of water. Then, the trail ends and hikers who wish to see the falls must enter the stream.

Sierra tried to wade through the water to get to the falls, but the current was a bit too strong for her. She decided to stay back with Noelle while I hiked back to the falls. 

I admired the falls and the cool, moist microclimate for a few minutes before returning to Noelle and Sierra for the walk back to the car.