One of the newest names National Parks in America, White Sands National Park is located in New Mexico. Featuring the worlds largest Gypsum Crystal Dune Field, this is one of the most unique places you can visit. Stunning sunsets, and plenty of opportunities to get out and explore, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know before visiting!
Know Before You Go
White Sands National Park is located directly by a missile testing range. This means occasional park closures when testing. Be sure to check the NPS website before your trip to be aware of closures.
Unlike some parks, White Sands doesn’t allow anyone to enter the park prior to 7am. They also close 30 minutes after sunset, and have park rangers patrolling the area to make sure everyone is heading out at that time.
You can easily get turned around when visiting this park. Be sure to pre download your map before your trip, and to drop a pin on your parked vehicle.
To enter White Sands National Park you will either need to purchase a $35, 7 day vehicle pass, or $55 annual pass. If you plan on visiting at least 3 National Parks/National Designated area within 1 year, you can purchase an annual America the Beautiful Pass at the entrance station for $80 which will cover 12 months of entrance fees into any National Park in the US.
Please Leave No Trace when visiting. We are all responsible for leaving these beautiful areas exactly how we found them and helping preserve the land for future generations ahead of us.
Where To Stay When Visiting
The city of Alamogordo, New Mexico is your gateway town to visiting White Sands. This town is located in the center of everything New Mexico has to offer. Great restaurants, hiking, and amazing weather. We loved our time visiting this town.
For lodging, there’s no better option than The Classic Desert Aire this is a one stop shop for everything you need when visiting. Featuring one of the best breakfasts we’ve ever had, they also have a pool, beautiful shop located in the main office, and a variety of rooms. This is the go to place to stay when visiting!
Closest Major Airport
El Paso international airport is your closest to White Sands National Park. Located about 85 miles away
Best Time To Visit
October-December would be our best bets to visit. You’ll experience much lower crowds than the summer, and comfortable temperatures. Although you can’t go wrong with any season, this is truly a year round park!
Hikes We Recommend
White Sands National Park has just a few named trails, all featuring amazing paths through the dunes. If you’re looking to get those photos of less foot traffic, we recommend picking one of these trails and hiking out 2 miles from the parking where the dunes will be smooth and less visited.
Interdune Boardwalk
Difficulty (easy)
Distance (0.4 miles)
Estimated hike time (5-10 minutes)
Very nice boardwalk trail that is elevated above the sand. This is a good option for those with disabilities who may have a tough time walking through the sand.
Alkali Flat Trail
Difficulty (moderate)
Distance (4.7 miles)
Estimated hike time (1.5 hours)
White Sands Backcountry Trail
Difficulty (moderate)
Distance (1.8 miles)
Estimated hike time (30 minutes)
Dune Life Nature Trail
Difficulty (easy)
Distance (1 mile)
Estimated Hike Time (20 minutes)
Other activities to do in the National Park or nearby!
Rent a sled and sled down one of the dunes
Visit https://pistachioland.com
Visit https://nmspacemuseum.org
Visit https://ci.alamogordo.nm.us/477/Alameda-Park-Zoo
This town and park really surpassed our expectations and quickly became one of our all time favorite places visited. From the scenery, to the town, the lodging, and the people. This was truly a trip of a lifetime and needs to be on everyone’s bucket list!