White Sands National Park: A First Time Visitor Guide
White Sands National Park, located in southern New Mexico, is home to the world’s largest gypsum dune field, covering nearly 300 square miles of glistening white sand. This surreal landscape offers a unique combination of stunning natural beauty, hiking trails, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer trip, here’s everything you need to know before you visit this less crowded but incredibly beautiful park!
Basic info:
- Name: White Sands National Park
- Location: New Mexico
- Fee: $15-$25 per car (depending on the vehicle)
- Top things to do: Hiking, sand boarding, ATV tours and more (see top recommendations)
- Hotels: See closest options
Getting There:
- Location: The park is located about 15 miles southwest of Alamogordo, New Mexico, along US Highway 70.
- Nearest Airport: The closest major airport is El Paso International Airport, about 85 miles away, making it a 1.5-hour drive to the park.
- Park Entrance Fee: The entrance fee is $25 per vehicle or $15 per person for those entering on foot or bicycle. The pass is valid for seven consecutive days.
Photos:
Best Times to Visit:
- Spring (March to May): Spring offers pleasant temperatures, ranging from 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C), with clear skies perfect for hiking and photography.
- Fall (September to November): Fall is another ideal time, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it great for exploring the dunes.
- Winter (December to February): Winter brings chilly mornings and evenings, but the daytime temperatures remain comfortable, usually around 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 16°C). Snowfall is rare but adds a magical touch to the white sands.
- Summer (June to August): Summers can be hot, with temperatures exceeding 95°F (35°C). If visiting in summer, plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat.
Things to Do:
- Dune Drive: The Dunes Drive is an 8-mile scenic drive through the heart of the dune field, offering several pullouts for photo stops and hiking access points. The drive takes about 45 minutes round-trip, but you can spend more time exploring along the way.
- Sledding on the Dunes: Sledding is a popular activity at White Sands, and you can rent plastic sleds at the visitor center. The gypsum sand is soft and smooth, making for a fun, fast slide down the dunes. Just make sure to wax the bottom of your sled for a faster ride (or buy some here).
- Hiking Trails: The park offers trails for all skill levels. Here’s a quick look at the most popular:
- Playa Trail: A short, easy 0.5-mile loop that offers views of the dunes and a dry lakebed.
- Interdune Boardwalk: This 0.4-mile boardwalk provides an accessible route through the interdunal area, with informational panels about the desert ecosystem.
- Alkali Flat Trail: A challenging 5-mile round-trip hike that takes you through the heart of the dunes. The trail is marked by posts, but be cautious of losing sight of the markers, as the landscape can be disorienting.
- Ranger Programs: Check the schedule at the visitor center for ranger-led programs, including sunset strolls and full moon hikes. These programs offer insights into the park’s geology, wildlife, and history.
- Stargazing: White Sands is a designated Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. The vast open space offers incredible views of the Milky Way, constellations, and shooting stars.
Tips:
- Bring Plenty of Water: White Sands National Park is very dry and can be extremely hot, so bring plenty of water, especially when hiking or sledding on the dunes.
- Wear lip balm: If your lips are sensitive to dry air, it’s highly recommended to bring some sort of lip balm for the trip.
- Check Weather Conditions: The weather can change rapidly, with the potential for strong winds or sudden rain showers. Be aware of any road closures or weather alerts before heading out.
- Stay on Marked Trails: It’s easy to get disoriented in the dunes, so always stick to marked trails and use landmarks to navigate. If hiking the Alkali Flat Trail, ensure each post is visible before proceeding to the next.
Nearby Attractions:
- White Sands Missile Range Museum: Located nearby, this museum offers a glimpse into the area’s military history, including its role in missile testing and space exploration.
- Three Rivers Petroglyph Site: About 45 miles north of the park, this site features over 21,000 ancient petroglyphs carved into the rocks by early Native American inhabitants.
- Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument: Located about an hour’s drive from White Sands, this monument offers hiking trails, rock formations, and stunning views of the surrounding desert.
Final things to know:
White Sands National Park offers a surreal desert experience with its vast gypsum dunes, stunning sunsets, and unique recreational opportunities. And while it’s one of the least crowded national parks in the states, it’s still a wonder to explore at least once! Whether you’re hiking through the dunes, sledding down the slopes, or stargazing under the clear desert sky, this natural wonder is a must-see for first time visitors.
