The San Luis Valley is a study in contrasts, evident in the 7,000-foot elevation gain from the low-lying valley floor to 14,345-foot Blanca Peak. The Great Sand Dunes are reminiscent of the Sahara Desert. Fourteen-thousand-foot peaks, the spire-like Crestone Needle, and its neighbor Crestone Peak - pride of the Sangre de Cristo ("Blood of Christ") Range - are the natural landmarks for the valley's eastern boundary.