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White Sands National Monument, New Mexico
Known for its white gypsum sand dunes, this corner of the
northern edge of the Chihuhuan Desert is preserved as a delicate ecological
system. The site is the largest gypsum dune field in the world, spanning
275 miles of desert dotted only by a few hardy plant species, small animals
and birds.
The Visitor Center includes displays on the ever-moving
dunes which can be seen on an eight-mile drive through the park. Several
trails allow access into the dunes. The Alkali Flat Trail is designed
for backcountry hikers and spans 4.6 miles. The most accessible route,
the Interdune Boardwalk, has interpretive exhibits on the ecology of the
dunes.
Location
White Sands is located in southeast New Mexico.
The Visitors Center is located on US 70/82 15 miles southwest of Alamogordo
or 52 miles east of Las Cruces.
Activities
A visit to White Sands is simple: go out and
have fun. Run and jump and play in the miles of undulating white dunes,
enjoy a picnic, play explorer, just have a good time. Four trails are
available although you can walk anywhere. The marked trails are a great
way to get oriented, though. (With a lack of landmarks, it’s easy
to become lost in the dunes. Your footprints are blown away most days
so don’t count on following them back.)
There is a boardwalk that’s great for
strollers as well as wheelchairs.
A great program for young visitors is the
Junior Dunes Ranger Program. The program has three age levels: pre-school,
age 6-8 and age 9 and up. Activities include everything from scavenger
hunt bingo to coloring pages and the program is free. To sign up your
child, just stop by the visitors center when you arrive and ask for the
activity guide for your child’s age. Once the activities are completed,
return to the visitors center and pick up your child’s patch and
certificate!
When To Visit
The peak visitation months are March through
August, mostly in the summer, although the park is open year around. During
the summer months, you’ll find the dunes hot so bring plenty of sunscreen,
light colored clothing, sunglasses, and hats.
How Long to Stay
You can spend anywhere from an hour to a full
day exploring the dunes (and longer if you want to camp) but most people
will find two to three hours plenty of time for a romp in the sand.
What To Bring
Sunscreen and protective sun equipment (hats,
sunglasses, even lightweight long-sleeved shirts for fair-skinned people)
are essential. The sun glares off the white sand so you’ll be totally
exposed. Bring along beach toys for the kids to enjoy in the sand as well.
Events at White Sands
Throughout the summer months, full moon programs
are planned.
Special astronomy programs include telescope
viewing, slide programs, meteor shower viewing, and other activities depending
on activities. Star talks are planned for many Friday nights throughout
the summer; call the park for dates.Practical Information
Restrictions: The park occasionally closes
if missile testing is going on at the White Sands Missile Range. During
these times, the park is closed for up to two hours (as well as the US
70/82 from Alamogordo to Las Cruces.) Also, dogs must remain on a leash.
Return to Southern
New Mexico Travel Guide
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