The UFO Highway by Great Sand Dunes National Park is a unique stretch of road in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, known for its high frequency of UFO sightings. This area, often called the ‘Bermuda Triangle of the West,’ attracts sky watchers and UFO enthusiasts from around the world. The highway, which includes parts of Highway 17, offers visitors a chance to explore mysterious sightings, dark skies, and the otherworldly landscape of the Great Sand Dunes.
What is the UFO Highway by Great Sand Dunes National Park?
The UFO Highway is not an official designation but rather a colloquial term for the stretch of road near Great Sand Dunes National Park that has become famous for UFO sightings. This area, particularly along Highway 17, has been a hotspot for unexplained aerial phenomena for decades. The combination of vast, open skies, minimal light pollution, and a history of strange occurrences has made this region a magnet for those interested in extraterrestrial activity.
Where Are the Best Spots for UFO Sightings Along This Highway?
While UFO sightings have been reported throughout the San Luis Valley, some locations stand out:
- UFO Watchtower:
- Located 2 miles north of Hooper, Colorado
- GPS Coordinates: 37.7433° N, 105.8767° W
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Features a viewing platform and gift shop
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Great Sand Dunes National Park:
- An International Dark Sky Park
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Offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities
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San Luis Valley Floor:
- Wide-open spaces with unobstructed views of the sky
- Multiple reported sightings across the valley
How Can You Plan a UFO Highway Road Trip?
Planning a road trip along the UFO Highway can be an exciting adventure. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1:
– Start in Alamosa, Colorado
– Drive north on Highway 17 to Hooper (25 miles)
– Visit the UFO Watchtower
– Spend the evening stargazing and UFO watching
Day 2:
– Drive to Great Sand Dunes National Park (30 miles from Hooper)
– Explore the park during the day
– Set up for night sky viewing in the evening
Essential Tips:
– Bring warm clothing for cool nights
– Pack binoculars or a telescope
– Carry a camera for potential sightings
– Bring plenty of water and snacks
What Equipment Should You Bring for UFO Watching?
To make the most of your UFO watching experience, consider bringing:
- Binoculars
- Telescope
- Camera with night photography capabilities
- Comfortable seating (chairs or blankets)
- Red flashlight to preserve night vision
- Star charts or astronomy apps
Are There Organized UFO Tours in the Area?
While there are no formal, organized UFO tours within Great Sand Dunes National Park itself, the UFO Watchtower offers a unique experience:
- Self-guided tours available
- No specific schedules or group sizes
- Opportunity to share UFO sighting stories with other visitors
- Interaction with the owner for local insights
What Safety Precautions Should You Take When UFO Watching?
When embarking on a UFO watching expedition, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Check weather forecasts for clear skies
- Inform someone of your plans and expected return time
- Bring appropriate clothing for potentially cold nights
- Carry a first-aid kit
- Respect park rules and regulations
- Be aware of wildlife in the area
How Does the UFO Highway Compare to Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway?
While Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway (State Route 375) is more widely known, the UFO Highway by Great Sand Dunes National Park offers its own unique experience:
| Feature | UFO Highway (Colorado) | Extraterrestrial Highway (Nevada) |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Approximately 25-30 miles | 98 miles |
| Nearby Attractions | Great Sand Dunes, UFO Watchtower | Area 51, Little A’Le’Inn |
| Landscape | Sand dunes, mountains | Desert, mountains |
| UFO Culture | Less commercialized | More tourist-oriented |
| Dark Sky Quality | Exceptional (International Dark Sky Park) | Very good |
What Makes the San Luis Valley a UFO Hotspot?
Several factors contribute to the San Luis Valley’s reputation as a UFO hotspot:
- Geographical Features:
- Vast, open spaces
- High altitude (7,500 feet above sea level)
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Surrounded by mountains
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Dark Skies:
- Minimal light pollution
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Clear atmospheric conditions
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Historical Context:
- Long history of reported sightings
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Native American legends of star beings
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Cultural Factors:
- Open-minded local community
- Active UFO research groups in the area
How Can You Distinguish Between UFOs and Natural Phenomena?
When observing the night sky, it’s important to differentiate between potential UFOs and natural phenomena:
- Movement Patterns: UFOs often exhibit erratic or impossible movements
- Light Intensity: Unusual brightness or color changes may indicate a UFO
- Duration: Natural phenomena like meteors are typically brief
- Shape: Distinct, non-aircraft shapes could suggest a UFO
- Sound: Lack of sound from apparent aircraft might indicate a UFO
Remember, most sightings have natural explanations, but keeping an open mind and careful observation can lead to exciting discoveries along the UFO Highway by Great Sand Dunes National Park.