Sandhill Crane Migration

A Four-Day Photography, Off-Road, and Community Experience in the San Luis Valley

Each March, more than 20,000 Sandhill Cranes arrive in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, one of the most dramatic wildlife migrations in North America. For 2026, this Fernweh experience has been expanded into a four-day Thursday–Sunday expedition, giving you more time for photography, off-road confidence, meaningful connection, and unhurried exploration of one of Colorado’s most stunning valleys.

Over four days, we’ll explore Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Zapata Falls, and Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge. Expect big landscapes, early-morning movement, golden-hour magic, relaxed afternoons, and evenings around the fire under wide-open skies.

This trip weaves together

• Confidence with photography and with your rig
• Community through shared dinners, campfires, and conversation
• Connection to nature, to the landscape, and to yourself

Featured Instructor: Mike Endres

Wildlife Photographer • Author • Naturalist • Educator

We’re honored to welcome Mike Endres back as our photography instructor. Mike brings decades of experience photographing wildlife across the American West and has a gift for helping both new and seasoned photographers see more deeply and shoot with intention.

Mike is also the author of A Guide to the Western National Monuments, a beautifully written exploration of the landscapes, history, and significance of America’s National Monuments. His book reflects the curiosity, reverence, and depth he brings to his work.

Included for Every Attendee
Each participant will receive a complimentary copy of Mike’s book.
Mike will be available for questions, discussion, and optional book signings throughout the trip.

Off-Road Driving & Rig Confidence

This expedition includes relaxed, practical instruction on:

• Off-road driving fundamentals
• Sand, dirt, and washboard driving dynamics
• Rig capability and preparedness
• Trail etiquette and safe travel
• Basic recovery concepts
• Building real confidence behind the wheel

These sessions are accessible, conversational, and built around real Fernweh experience… no pressure, no ego, just shared learning.

Camping & Meals

This expedition is a camp-based experience with time each evening for connection around the fire.

Meals:

• Breakfast: On your own
• Lunch: On your own
• Dinner: Catered for the entire group each night, a Fernweh signature

Evenings are designed for slowing down, sharing stories, and enjoying the community that naturally forms on every Fernweh trip.

Who This Trip Is For

• Wildlife and bird lovers
• Beginner and seasoned photographers
• Drivers looking to build off-road confidence
• Travelers who crave connection, community, and story
• Anyone ready to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature

Pricing:

• Driver + Vehicle: $450
• Additional Passenger: $200

What’s Included

• 4-day guided Fernweh experience
• Nightly catered dinners
• Instruction and guidance from wildlife photographer & author Mike Endres
• Off-road driving & rig-confidence sessions
• Visits to Great Sand Dunes NP, Zapata Falls, and Alamosa NWR
• Complimentary copy of Mike’s book
• Campsite coordination
• Pre-trip guidance, packing info, and support