Explore White Sands National Park's Unique Gypsum Dunes

Experience the beauty of White Sands National Park, where expansive gypsum sand dunes create a unique landscape ideal for hiking, sledding, and breathtaking sunset views.

Last updated: Apr 2024

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$25 per vehicle entry fee, valid for 7 days.
More than 500 Miles from you
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Description

White Sands National Park, located in southern New Mexico, is a natural wonder featuring over 275 square miles of gypsum sand dunes, the largest of its kind in the world. This unique landscape offers a range of activities, from leisurely hikes along marked trails to dune sledding for thrill-seekers. Start your visit at the visitor center to learn about the park's history and get maps for the various trails. Explore the 16-mile Dunes Drive to get a comprehensive view of the park's beauty. Enjoy the stunning sunsets over the sand dunes, a perfect backdrop for photography. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and protective eyewear to stay safe in the desert environment.

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Outdoorsy

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Itinerary

Start at the visitor center to gather information and purchase entry tickets.
Explore Dunes Drive for a scenic view of the park.
Choose from several hiking trails, such as the Interdune Boardwalk, Playa Trail, Dune Life Nature Trail, Backcountry Camping Trail, or Alkali Flat Trail.
Try dune sledding at designated areas with a sled from the visitor center.
Capture stunning photos at sunset from various vantage points.

Location

White Sands National Park, NM

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Packing List

Comfortable hiking shoes
Water bottle
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hat
Snacks or a packed meal
Camera for photography

4.8 ● Google reviews

GORGEOUS! Escape the crowd and enjoy nature's beauty! Bring water and food, and follow the trails. Best time to visit is during winter. Thick jackets recommended for sunset views. Check the park's website before going. Highly recommended!

White Sands National Park is one of the coolest and most underated National Parks we have. It's certainly not the largest park but once you're in it, the pure white sand dunes appear to go on indefinitely. It's a mesmerizing experience that feels otherworldly. There's a few trails that can be walked but the most fun is grabbing a sand sled from the visitor center and finding the steepest sand dune. It can be very hot and the sun is brutal so bring plenty of water and sun protection!

Amazing place! Felt out of this world, like an infinite beach. It does get hot very quickly so make sure to bring sunscreen and lots of water. It has become my favorite unique national park- especially if you’re into photography. Traveled here with DBK photography Had a great time sand sledding so definitely can recommend that as an activity. You can roam basically as far as you can see so be aware of which direction you go. Don’t get lost!

Feels like another planet for sure! The sands go on and on for miles. Be sure to take water and sun protection if going for a hike or sledding as the sun beaming off of the white sands can be brutal. The visitor center will rent sleds and the wax needed. The sledding will wear you out from climbing the dunes....great for kids. Just make sure to check the sites pages for closures and weather before you go.

Amazing place! Felt out worldly, like an infinite beach. It does get hot very quickly so make sure to bring sunscreen and lots of water. Had a great time sand sledding so definitely can recommend that as an activity. You can roam basically as far as you can see so be aware of which direction you go.

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