National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS Photo
White Sands National Park
Rising from the heart of the Tularosa Basin is one of the world's great natural wonders - the glistening white sands of New Mexico. Great wave-like dunes of gypsum sand have engulfed 275 square miles of desert, creating the world's largest gypsum dunefield. White Sands National Park preserves a major portion of this unique dunefield, along with the plants and animals that live here.
Entrance Fees
Activities
Top Hikes
5 mi · 200 ft gain · loop
The park's most challenging hike traversing rolling white gypsum dunes to an ancient lakebed.
Starts at: Dunes Drive
2 mi · 50 ft gain · loop
Loop through the White Sands backcountry with views of the San Andres Mountains.
Starts at: Dunes Drive
1 mi · 30 ft gain · loop
Nature trail with 14 interpretive signs exploring the ecotone where desert scrub meets gypsum dunes.
Starts at: Dunes Drive
0.4 mi · 5 ft gain · out & back
ADA-accessible boardwalk through the fragile interdune area with ten interpretive panels.
Starts at: Dunes Drive
Upcoming Events
Drop in Ranger Talk
Stop by any time between 9:30-10:30 to dig deeper into the natural and cultural history of White Sands National Park. Topics can include ancient footprints, ancient megafauna, modern animals, human history, or a quick art project for children and adults.
The Sunset Stroll is a leisurely, ranger-guided half mile stroll through the gypsum sand dunes. It is a splendid opportunity to experience the dunes first-hand while learning about the uniqueness of our geology, plants, and animals. As an added bonus, the stroll is timed to end at sunset, providing a panoramic view of the sun setting over the mountains and the potential for some breath-taking photographic opportunities.
Ice Age Life Within Drop-in Program
Stop by any time between 10 and 11 to learn more about the ancient fossilized footprints found at White Sands National Park.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: January, February, October, November, December
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
Temperatures at White Sands vary greatly throughout the year. Summer time temperatures can be very hot. Winters are mild with cool evenings. Spring time is the windy season. Fall is very enjoyable with mild daytime and night time temperatures.