While exploring the recreational opportunities and scenery throughout this great region, explore some sand dune areas.
In Wyoming, the popular Killpecker Sand Dunes in Wyoming’s Red Desert should not be missed. From Rock Springs, travel north on U.S. Highway 191 approximately 10.5 miles and turn east (right) onto the Tri-Territory Road (County Road 4-17). Once you’ve traveled 28 miles from Rock Springs, you’ll arrive at Killpecker Sand Dunes.
Killpecker Sand Dunes is one of the largest active sand dunes in North America. Dunes, up to 150 feet high, constantly change as winds blow sand eastward. The name comes from Killpecker Creek, colorfully named by the U.S. Calvary in the 1860s because of the mineral-rich water’s effect on the troops.
The Killpecker Sand Dunes are a popular place for off-road vehicle enthusiasts. Many ATVers head to the dunes, where the BLM has opened 13,000 acres to off-road vehicle use.
In Idaho, pay a visit to Bruneau Dunes State Park, located in the southwestern part of the state. Here, you’ll see the continent’s tallest single sand dune rising over 470 feet above the desert floor. Recreation opportunities abound.
About eight miles west of St. Anthony, Idaho, are the St. Anthony Sand Dunes – 41,000 acres of moving sand dunes. The white rolling hills of sand rise 200 to 300 feet above the valley floor. They stretch about 35 miles in length and one to five miles in width. In mid-summer, although the sand gets hot, the temperature rarely tops 90 degrees.
