Thu 6/2 - AM 6 hour run/hike, Great Sand Dunes

Experienced all the different environments the park has to offer. Attempted to reach Medano Lake, forced to turn back near the top by snow. Much more running vs. hiking as compared to Monday on Pikes Peak though. Started on the Sand ramp trail, 5 miles in soft sand that took over an hour. Hooked up with the Medano Pass Primitive Road for the next 8 miles climbing up to the trailhead that leads to the lake. This was a nice stretch, both up and down, not too steep and with multiple stream crossings that helped to keep cool on the trip down. To top it off, wind was at my back for the climb up, headwind not as big an issue on the trip down. Passed through acres and acres of burnt out forest from last summer. Climbed as high as I could on the final trail, 2000' ascent in a little over 3.5 miles, until the snow was too deep to be able to see where the trail was. Wandered around for 15 minutes or so before giving it up and turning back. Realized soon after turning around that I didn't have as much water left as I would have liked for the trip back. Still, it went well for the portion of the road leading down to the valley floor with the moderate downhill grade. I was hopeful the vehicle traffic would make the road more firm than the Sand Ramp trail that runs parallel to it, but no such luck. Left to run the last 5 miles on soft sand, getting more dehydrated and frustrated with every step. Mountain miles seem drawn out, but mountain miles in the sand are simply excruciating. Took some walking breaks near the bitter end, finished and sucked down 48 ounces of water immediately, with more following soon after.