Exploring ever-changing landscapes and evolving ecosystems often makes one wonder about the history behind these enduring lands. What are the stories that have shaped this land, and how has this land, in turn, shaped those who have lived and traveled upon it?  

For Jaiden Garcia, an Individual Placement intern with Southwest Conservation Corps, this wonder led to the creation of a remarkable project within Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. In collaboration with the National Park Service, Jaiden initiated a unique project—a guided hike that invites visitors to witness the transformation in landscape that many people simply drive by. This guided hike aims to take participants beyond the surface beauty of the park, bridging the gap between past and present, allowing participants to unravel the rich connection of Indigenous heritage intertwined with the land. 

Jaiden Garcia leading a guided hike through Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Photo credit to Patrick Myers, NPS employee.

“The interpretive program consists of 13 stops on a half-mile hike through the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, along the Monte Ville Trail,” Jaiden explains. “The hike highlights a variety of plants, from aspen, cottonwood, white fir, Douglas fir, and pinion pine trees to wild rose, rabbit brush, Indian paintbrush, chokeberry brush, and yucca. These plants and trees have been vital to the affiliated Tribes with the park, who have used them for medicinal purposes and traditional ceremonies. The Tribes still come here to gather resources.”  

Jaiden’s connection to this project runs deep. “I grew up in a little town called Dulce, New Mexico, located on the Jicarilla Apache Reservation,” he shares. “I am half Spanish and half Jicarilla Apache, so this project resonated with me. I accepted the internship [with Southwest Conservation Corps] because I felt it had a big connection to my culture and heritage, with the Jicarilla Apache Nation being one of the 18 Tribes affiliated with the park… For me, one of the most valuable takeaways from this experience is having the ability to spread knowledge and awareness that Native Americans are still here.”  

Photo credit to Patrick Myers, NPS Employee.

Kathy Faz Garcia, Program Manager with NPS Interpretation and Visitor Services, emphasizes the profound impact of Jaiden’s work, stating “Jaiden is spending his second year at Great Sand Dunes, more involved with interpretive programming than last year. It has been a pleasure to witness his growth in the development of this culturally themed hike. His program is well-researched and includes personal elements that he is passionate about. This passion he has for the topic and the landscape is evident in how he presents it. Jaiden has really enhanced our program offerings.” 

This project is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of preserving the legacy of our natural landscapes. It serves as an invitation, encouraging folks to witness the tales etched into the landscape and held by the park’s ecosystems, bringing past and present together. By offering visitors this opportunity to learn about the rich history of Great Sand Dunes, Jaiden, Southwest Conservation Corps and the National Park Service are fostering a deeper understanding of the balance between humans and nature. This guided hike is a celebration of culture and land, highlighting the timeless bond between people and their natural environment. 

Click here to view all open positions with Southwest Conservation Corps and begin your journey today!

Click here to visit NPS.gov and learn about Great Sand Dunes’ 18 affiliated Tribes.