The dunes at Bruneau Dunes State Park are unique in the Western Hemisphere. Other dunes in the Americas form at

the edges of natural basins; these form near the center. They include the largest single-structured sand dune in

North America, with a peak 470 feet above the lakes. The combination of 1) a source of sand; 2) a relatively constant wind activity; and 3) a natural trap have caused sand to collect in this semicircular basin for about 12,000 years. Unlike most dunes, these do not drift far. The prevailing winds blow from the southeast 28 percent of the time and from the northwest 32 percent of the time, keeping the dunes fairly stable. The two prominent dunes cover about 600 acres.

The park contains lake, marsh, desert, prairie and dune habitats. Since most desert wildlife is nocturnal, early morning and late evening are the best times for spotting the park's inhabitants.The small lakes at the foot of the dunes provide an excellent bass and bluegill fishery. Sport fishing from nonmotorized boats, canoes, rubber rafts and float tubes is a popular activity.

• Hike on these interesting sand dunes.
• Look for tracks in the sand to steer you toward a daytime glimpse of desert wildlife. Since most desert wildlife is nocturnal, early morning and late evening are the best times for spotting the park's inhabitants.
• Enjoy birdwatching for songbirds or raptors such as owls, hawks and eagles.