Interdune Boardwalk
An accessible boardwalk offering a unique perspective into the interdune ecosystem of White Sands National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Interdune Boardwalk
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An accessible boardwalk offering a unique perspective into the interdune ecosystem of White Sands National Park.
"Nice short walk out into the dunes on broad walk if you don’t want to get into sand."
Wheelchair & Stroller Friendly
This boardwalk is fully accessible, making it perfect for all visitors! :wheelchair:
Beat the Heat
Bring water and wear sun protection, especially during warmer months. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elevated Dune Walk
Interdune Boardwalk Trail
Stroll on a 0.4-mile boardwalk through the heart of the dunes, offering unique perspectives.
Wildlife and Flora Info
Along the Boardwalk
Informative signs detail the fascinating plants and animals adapted to this desert environment.
Panoramic Dune Views
End of the Boardwalk
Reach a viewpoint with expansive vistas of the gypsum dunes and distant Sacramento Mountains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessibility is Key
Timing for the Best Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wheelchair & Stroller Friendly
This boardwalk is fully accessible, making it perfect for all visitors! :wheelchair:
Beat the Heat
Bring water and wear sun protection, especially during warmer months. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Photo Opportunities Galore
The stark white sand and unique landscape are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
Dog-Friendly Path
Leashed dogs are welcome on the boardwalk, so bring your furry friends! :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wheelchair & Stroller Friendly
This boardwalk is fully accessible, making it perfect for all visitors! :wheelchair:
Beat the Heat
Bring water and wear sun protection, especially during warmer months. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Photo Opportunities Galore
The stark white sand and unique landscape are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
Dog-Friendly Path
Leashed dogs are welcome on the boardwalk, so bring your furry friends! :dog:
Shaded Rest Stop
There's a shaded area halfway along the boardwalk for a break. :palm_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Interdune Boardwalk for its accessibility and educational value, offering a pleasant way to experience the dunes without the sand. While some find it a bit short for truly breathtaking views compared to deeper park trails, it's highly recommended for families, those with mobility needs, and anyone wanting a quick, scenic walk.
"Mar 23, 2024 - Nice short walk out into the dunes on broad walk if you don’t want to get into sand and if you want to keep your shoes/feet clean. Good for taking pictures. About half way there is shading area to get a rest"
Artem Metelskiy
"New boardwalk takes you on a nice little hike. Great views of the dunes and you can learn about the animals and plants in the park, if you read the signs. Dogs get to walk the boardwalk, too! 🐕🦺"
Kathryn Palmquist
"Short elevated boardwalk that dead ends in the middle of some sand dunes. Lots of informational blurbs along the way about the flora and fauna. Plenty of opportunities to find bleached earless lizards. If you’re looking for something accessible this is it! If you’re looking for breathtaking views this isn’t it in my opinion, and you’ll find what you’re looking for further into the park."
Scarlett Henderson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Interdune Boardwalk is located within White Sands National Park. Follow Dunes Drive into the park, and you'll find the trailhead on your right, about 5 miles from the entrance. It's clearly marked and easily accessible from the main road.
Yes, there is a dedicated parking area at the trailhead for the Interdune Boardwalk. It can get busy, especially during peak times, so arriving earlier is recommended.
The road leading to the Interdune Boardwalk is generally accessible for RVs. However, always be mindful of the size of your vehicle and any posted restrictions within the park.
While the Interdune Boardwalk itself is a short out-and-back trail, it's situated within White Sands National Park, which offers several other hiking options like the Dune Life Nature Trail and the Backcountry Camping Trail.
White Sands National Park is located near Alamogordo, New Mexico. The main entrance is off Highway 70. Use GPS coordinates or a reliable navigation app for the most accurate directions to the park itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need to pay an entrance fee to enter White Sands National Park, which includes access to all trails, including the Interdune Boardwalk. Check the official NPS website for current fees and operating hours.
Park hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official White Sands National Park website for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit.
You can typically purchase park entrance passes online in advance through the NPS website or recreation.gov, which can save you time upon arrival.
White Sands National Park offers various passes, including annual passes and passes for seniors and military personnel. Check the NPS website for eligibility and details.
The Interdune Boardwalk is generally open during park hours year-round, weather permitting. Extreme weather conditions could lead to temporary closures.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Interdune Boardwalk is a 0.4-mile out-and-back trail, so it typically takes about 20-30 minutes to complete, including time for photos and reading the interpretive signs.
Absolutely! The boardwalk is safe and engaging for children, with educational signs and plenty of space to explore without the risk of getting lost in the dunes.
The Interdune Boardwalk is designed to keep you above the sensitive dune environment. While it leads you into the interdune area, venturing off the boardwalk onto the dunes is generally discouraged to protect the ecosystem.
You might spot bleached earless lizards, various insects, and unique desert plants adapted to the gypsum sands. The interpretive signs provide great information about the local flora and fauna.
Restroom facilities are available at the visitor center and at various points within the park. It's advisable to use them before or after your boardwalk stroll.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. The soft light creates long shadows and enhances the textures of the dunes.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive dune landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colors.
The end of the boardwalk offers a great vantage point for panoramic shots. Look for interesting dune formations and the contrast between the white sand and the sky.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks. Always check the official White Sands National Park regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
Expose for the highlights to avoid blowing out the white sand. Consider shooting in RAW format to give you more flexibility in post-processing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as it can get hot. The accessible nature of the boardwalk also makes it a great option for families with strollers or if you have a child who uses a wheelchair. It's a low-stress way to introduce children to the unique landscape of White Sands.
🚶♀️ Visitors Seeking Easy Walks
This boardwalk is ideal for those who want to experience the park's iconic scenery but prefer not to walk directly on the sand or tackle steep dunes. It’s a great way to get some fresh air and enjoy the unique landscape at a relaxed pace.
📸 Photographers
Don't forget to capture the details highlighted by the interpretive signs – the textures of the sand, the hardy desert plants, and any wildlife you might spot. The contrast between the stark white gypsum and the blue sky is always a winner.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Interdune Environment
This area is crucial for understanding the park's ecology. The interdune zones are dynamic, constantly shaped by wind and sand. Observing the subtle changes and the resilience of life here offers a profound appreciation for nature's adaptability. It’s a stark contrast to the more dramatic, sweeping vistas of the main dune fields, offering a more intimate look at the park's natural wonders.
Key takeaways for appreciating this area include understanding the role of gypsum in forming these unique dunes and recognizing the specialized adaptations of the plants and animals. It’s a place for quiet observation and learning, highlighting the interconnectedness of this desert landscape.
Accessibility and Inclusivity at the Boardwalk
This thoughtful design means that families with young children, individuals with mobility impairments, and even those simply wanting to avoid getting sand on their shoes can enjoy a comfortable and safe walk. The presence of a shaded rest area halfway along the boardwalk further enhances the visitor experience, providing a welcome respite from the sun.
The Interdune Boardwalk serves as a prime example of how natural attractions can be made accessible to a wider audience, fostering a more inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy the wonders of White Sands National Park.
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