Elk Crossing Dunes

From the U.S. Department of the Interior:

Here's a rare sight: A herd of elk cross the dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in Colorado. What would cause a large mammal to venture into the seemingly barren sand? The elk find food in patches of ricegrass and blowout grass; perceived shelter from predators like mountain lions and coyotes that may attack their young; and space to run. Photo by Patrick Myers, National Park Service. — at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve.