Alkali Flat Trail
A challenging 5-mile loop through towering gypsum dunes, offering breathtaking vistas and unforgettable sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Alkali Flat Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging 5-mile loop through towering gypsum dunes, offering breathtaking vistas and unforgettable sunset views.
"The dunes are spectacular and so much fun to climb and slide down."
💧 Bring Extra Water!
Seriously, don't skimp on water. The 5-mile loop is tough and the sun is intense.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Sand can be tricky. Closed-toe shoes are best, though some enjoy going barefoot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Towering Sand Dunes
Alkali Flat Trail
Experience the vastness of White Sands National Park on this challenging, yet rewarding, dune hike.
Panoramic Desert Vistas
Along the Alkali Flat Trail
Enjoy breathtaking views of sculpted gypsum dunes stretching as far as the eye can see.
Sunset Spectacle
Alkali Flat Trail
Witness a magical sunset painting the gypsum landscape in warm, golden hues.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hydration is Key!
Trail Navigation & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Extra Water!
Seriously, don't skimp on water. The 5-mile loop is tough and the sun is intense.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Sand can be tricky. Closed-toe shoes are best, though some enjoy going barefoot.
👀 Watch for Trail Markers
Orange poles mark the way, but sand shifts. Keep them in sight!
🕶️ Protect Yourself
Sunglasses and a hat are essential to shield from the sun's glare.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Extra Water!
Seriously, don't skimp on water. The 5-mile loop is tough and the sun is intense.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Sand can be tricky. Closed-toe shoes are best, though some enjoy going barefoot.
👀 Watch for Trail Markers
Orange poles mark the way, but sand shifts. Keep them in sight!
🕶️ Protect Yourself
Sunglasses and a hat are essential to shield from the sun's glare.
🌅 Stay for Sunset
The dunes transform into a dreamscape as the sun dips below the horizon.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Alkali Flat Trail is a challenging but highly rewarding hike within White Sands National Park, offering stunning dune landscapes and breathtaking sunset views. While the trail is not flat and requires navigation skills, most visitors find the effort worthwhile for the unique experience and solitude it provides. Some find the trail strenuous, but the spectacular scenery and photographic opportunities are consistently praised.
"Had to get to Carlsbad Caverns by 2pm, so only did the Alkali Flat trail and spent time at the Visitor Center. Don't think I missed much. Was inside the Park before 8am, and done by around 10:30. If you're coming from Las Cruces, you will have to go through Border Patrol to get to the Park.
Now about this trail - as others have said, it is definitely not flat. I went clockwise, and within the first mile itself, there are some unavoidable dune climbs which put a lot of pressure on your quads and calves. Garmin reports a total elevation gain of around 750 feet in 4.5 miles and it took me 1.5 hours overall. Did the last half mile barefoot and it definitely felt great. There are some patches where the sand is hard, so shoes help there. At any point, you should be able to see the next trail market (orange pole) - if you can't, turn around and look for it. There's a clearly marked turnaround point midway through the hike. Getting to the trailhead requires a bit of driving on hardened sand, but it's nothing too tough - sedans should be able to do it too. Lots of other people were there too the Thursday before Good Friday. Didn't need to show any Pass at the gate (although I had it) because I entered the Park before 8am."
Vipul Singh
"The Akali Flat trail is a five mile loop trail through the sand dunes. As the sign says, this is not a flat trail. The path follows a series of orange trail markers placed within viewing distance of each other. The Rangers cautioned us in advance to stop and turn around if we couldn't see the next marker.
We finished the trail in under 2 hours, but we also skipped some of the trail markers when we saw more distant trail markers in a straight line. We were the only ones on the trail after passing the first couple of dunes.
Make sure to carry the recommended water and dress appropriately. It gets very hot with the sun reflecting off the sand.
This was a great hike, and we were so pleased we took the trail. The dunes are spectacular and so much fun to climb and slide down. The flats were expansive. The fact that we were alone out in the dunes added to the feeling of being in another world."
Dawn J
"4.5 mile loop trail through the sand dunes. This area of the park has the tallest dunes and is less traveled than the other areas.
If you’re looking to hike the whole trail, please take adequate amounts of water - either bring it before you enter the park or fill up at the visitor center. There’s orange trail markers but it can very difficult to follow the trail. I’d recommend driving and walking a brief distance just to see the views of white sands in all directions."
Kevin Wang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Alkali Flat Trailhead is located within White Sands National Park. Accessing the park may involve passing through a Border Patrol checkpoint if coming from Las Cruces. The road to the trailhead is hardened sand and generally manageable for sedans.
For those with limited time in New Mexico, the drive to White Sands can be significant. However, many visitors find the unique landscape and the Alkali Flat Trail experience to be well worth the journey.
The drive to the Alkali Flat Trailhead involves a portion on hardened sand, which is typically manageable for most vehicles, including sedans.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a park pass is generally required for entry into White Sands National Park. However, some visitors have reported entering before 8 am without needing to show a pass on certain days. It's always best to check the official park website for the most current information.
Operating hours for White Sands National Park can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official park website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit, especially if you plan to hike the Alkali Flat Trail early or late.
Entry fees for White Sands National Park are typically per vehicle. Check the park's official website for current pricing and any potential discounts or passes.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Alkali Flat Trail is a 5-mile loop that winds through the sand dunes of White Sands National Park.
Despite its name, the Alkali Flat Trail is considered challenging due to significant elevation changes as you climb and descend the sand dunes. Expect a strenuous workout for your quads and calves.
Most visitors complete the Alkali Flat Trail in 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on their pace and how much time they spend enjoying the views.
The trail is marked with orange poles, but the shifting sands can make navigation difficult. It's important to keep the markers in sight and turn around if you lose them.
Some visitors enjoy hiking parts of the Alkali Flat Trail barefoot, especially on firmer sand patches. However, it's recommended to wear shoes for most of the trail.
The best times to hike the Alkali Flat Trail are early morning to avoid the heat and crowds, or late afternoon to experience the beautiful sunset light.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Alkali Flat Trail offers stunning photographic opportunities. Look for unique dune formations, expansive vistas, and the dramatic play of light and shadow, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography on the Alkali Flat Trail, casting long shadows and warm tones across the gypsum dunes.
While pets are allowed in White Sands National Park, they are generally not permitted on the hiking trails, including the Alkali Flat Trail. Always check the park's official pet policy before your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a less strenuous option within White Sands National Park, families might prefer shorter, flatter trails or simply exploring the main visitor center area. However, if your family enjoys a good hike and the thrill of a unique landscape, the Alkali Flat Trail can be a memorable adventure. Remember to check the weather and pack accordingly for sun protection.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
Safety is paramount for solo hikers: always inform someone of your hiking plans, carry plenty of water, and be vigilant about trail markers. The sense of accomplishment after completing the loop on your own can be incredibly rewarding. The unique, otherworldly landscape provides a stunning backdrop for a personal journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Shifting Sands
Navigation on the Alkali Flat Trail relies on a series of orange trail markers. However, the constantly shifting sands mean these markers can sometimes be obscured or difficult to spot. It's crucial to maintain visual contact with the next marker and be prepared to backtrack if you lose the trail. The trail has a clearly marked turnaround point midway, offering flexibility for those who wish to shorten their hike.
Key takeaway: Be prepared for a workout and pay close attention to the trail markers. The effort is rewarded with unparalleled views and a unique desert experience.
The Magic of White Sands Sunsets
+1This time of day is ideal for photography, with the soft light highlighting the textures and curves of the dunes. The cooler temperatures of the evening also make the hike more comfortable. It's a perfect opportunity to find a quiet spot on a dune, relax, and simply soak in the breathtaking beauty of the desert.
Pro-tip: Bring a light jacket or hoodie, as temperatures can drop quickly after sunset, especially during cooler months.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit