Our visit to Great Sand Dunes will include an opportunity to wade in Medano Creek that flows around the dunes. In fact, we must cross the creek in order to reach the dunes. We also have the chance to wade through the stream at Zapata Falls. Bear country Black bears are common in the San Isabel National Forest, including the Cuchara vicinity. Students are advised to place small bells or rattles on their packs.
Bears normally move away from an approaching human disturbance.
Some bears, however, have come to depend on garbage where people live, including the Cuchara Mountain Resort. These bears have little fear of humans. If you encounter a bear, do not try to run away. This will only excite the bear. Likewise do not play dead.