White Sands National Park
Explore the world's largest gypsum dune field, a surreal landscape of shimmering white sands that feel cool underfoot.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, cooler temps
White Sands National Park
Best Time
Magical light, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the world's largest gypsum dune field, a surreal landscape of shimmering white sands that feel cool underfoot.
"White Sands National Park completely exceeded our expectations. It’s one of the most unique landscapes we’ve ever explored."
Hydration is Key! 💧
Bring more water than you think you'll need. The sun is intense, even when the sand feels cool.
Sledding Fun! 🛷
Buy or rent a sled at the visitor center for an unforgettable dune sliding experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gypsum Dunes
Vast, shimmering white dunes that feel like cool powder underfoot. An otherworldly landscape.
Sand Sledding
Experience the thrill of sliding down the powdery gypsum dunes. Fun for all ages!
Sunset Spectacle
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the dunes in vibrant colors. A photographer's dream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for the Dunes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hydration is Key! 💧
Bring more water than you think you'll need. The sun is intense, even when the sand feels cool.
Sledding Fun! 🛷
Buy or rent a sled at the visitor center for an unforgettable dune sliding experience.
Golden Hour Magic ✨
Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning light and fewer crowds. +1
Protect Your Eyes 👀
Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential due to the intense glare off the white sand.
Tips
from all over the internet
Hydration is Key! 💧
Bring more water than you think you'll need. The sun is intense, even when the sand feels cool.
Sledding Fun! 🛷
Buy or rent a sled at the visitor center for an unforgettable dune sliding experience.
Golden Hour Magic ✨
Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning light and fewer crowds. +1
Protect Your Eyes 👀
Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential due to the intense glare off the white sand.
Explore the Trails 🚶♀️
Hike the Dune Life Nature Trail or Alkali Flat Trail for unique perspectives.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise White Sands National Park for its surreal beauty and unique gypsum dunes, often describing it as an otherworldly experience. The opportunity for sand sledding is a major highlight, providing fun for all ages. Sunsets are particularly breathtaking, offering spectacular photo opportunities. While the park is stunning, visitors are reminded to bring ample water and sun protection due to the intense desert sun.
"Visitors center was very educational and nice to visit. The gift shops had a huge variety of souvenirs and personable employees who knew a lot about the park. There’s plenty of space at each stop for the volume of visitors and bathrooms available throughout the park. It was a great experience I would highly recommend."
Melanie Duke
"One of the best sunsets I’ve seen. The sun makes the clouds colorful and the color changes millions times in an hour.
Unlike other huge national parks, it does not need a week to explore everything, you can either enjoy the thrill of sand dune sliding or watch the sunset quietly."
Pu Sun
"Early October was the perfect time of year to check out White Sands National Park. It was still 90 degrees so bring tons of water. Hikes were beautiful. Park was clean. You could see other people in some areas but it was not crowded. Sleds were expensive and we couldn't rent, had to purchase because we wanted to stay until sunset and can't bring a sled home on a plane easily so gave it to others. How often can you say you have gone sand sledding?"
Laura Gould
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
White Sands National Park is conveniently located about 1.5 hours north of El Paso, Texas. Many visitors drive from El Paso, making it a popular day trip destination. +4
Driving is the most common and recommended way to reach White Sands National Park, especially if you're coming from nearby cities like El Paso. You can also arrive by RV.
Public transport options are very limited for reaching White Sands National Park. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
From El Paso, take US-54 E to NM-54 E towards Alamogordo. Turn right onto US-70 W and follow signs for White Sands National Park. The drive is scenic and straightforward.
While ambitious, some visitors attempt to visit both White Sands and Carlsbad National Parks in a single day, especially if flying into El Paso. However, it's a very long day with significant driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for White Sands National Park is $25 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. If arriving by foot or bicycle, the fee is $15 per person. +1
Advance booking is generally not required for White Sands National Park. Entry is typically on a first-come, first-served basis, though it's wise to check the official NPS website for any alerts or closures.
Park hours vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official White Sands National Park website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, you can rent or purchase sleds at the park's Visitor Center. Renting is a good option if you don't want to buy one to take home.
While there isn't a separate fee for sledding itself, the cost of renting or purchasing a sled is separate from the park entrance fee. Sled rentals can be around $15.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the Dune Life Nature Trail (1 mile loop), Alkali Flat Trail (5 miles roundtrip, challenging), and the Playa Trail (0.4 miles easy). The Interdune Boardwalk is also a great accessible option.
Early morning or late afternoon/evening are ideal to avoid the midday heat and experience the magical golden hour light on the dunes. Sunsets are particularly spectacular. +2
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, a hat, and sunglasses. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for hiking, though many people go barefoot on the cool sand.
Absolutely! Sand sledding is a huge hit with kids, and exploring the vast dunes feels like a natural playground. Many families find it incredibly fun.
Backcountry camping is permitted in designated areas of White Sands National Park, but requires a permit and careful planning. Day use is more common for most visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food services available inside White Sands National Park. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and drinks.
The nearest town with dining options is Alamogordo, New Mexico, which is a short drive from the park entrance. You'll find various fast-food and local restaurants there.
Yes, picnicking is a great option! There are picnic areas available, and it's highly recommended to bring your own food and plenty of water.
Pack easy-to-eat snacks, sandwiches, and plenty of water. Consider items that won't melt easily in the desert heat.
You can find grocery stores in Alamogordo, NM, before heading into the park to stock up on supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, with soft, warm hues and long shadows that accentuate the dune shapes. +2
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the dunes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. Consider a polarizing filter to manage glare.
The entire park is photogenic! Popular spots include the Dune Life Nature Trail, the Interdune Boardwalk, and any area where you can capture the sweeping curves of the dunes against the sky.
Use a lens hood, keep your camera in its bag when not in use, and consider using a protective filter. Gently brush off sand with a soft brush.
Drone usage is restricted in all National Parks, including White Sands. Check the official NPS website for current regulations regarding drone operation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond sledding, simply exploring the dunes is an adventure. The sand feels cool and soft, making it comfortable for little ones to run, roll, and play. The Dune Life Nature Trail and Interdune Boardwalk are easy, family-friendly options for a gentle introduction to the landscape. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no food services within the park.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the dunes and a telephoto lens for isolating interesting textures. A polarizing filter can help manage the intense glare. Be mindful of the fine gypsum dust and protect your camera gear.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Plan your visit to coincide with sunrise or sunset for the most memorable experience. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the dunes, and don't forget your sleds for some classic White Sands fun. The park's relatively compact size means you can see and do a lot without needing an entire day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geology of White Sands
+1This unique composition creates a surreal, almost otherworldly landscape that has captivated visitors for generations. The dunes are constantly shifting, sculpted by the wind into mesmerizing shapes and patterns. The park is home to the largest gypsum dune field in the world, covering over 145,000 acres.
+1This geological marvel also supports a unique ecosystem. Specialized plants and animals have adapted to survive in this gypsum-rich environment. Keep an eye out for the White Sands pupfish, the Apache pocket mouse, and various insects and reptiles that call these dunes home.
Experiencing the Thrill of Sand Sledding
Many visitors recommend heading out into the dunes away from the main parking areas to find the best sledding spots. The further you venture, the more secluded and exhilarating the experience can be. It's a fantastic way to embrace your inner child and enjoy the unique landscape.
Remember to bring water and wear appropriate clothing, as sledding can be physically demanding. The cool sand underfoot makes it a comfortable activity even on warmer days, but the sun's intensity should not be underestimated.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at White Sands
The best times for photography are undoubtedly sunrise and sunset. During these 'golden hours,' the low-angled sun casts long shadows, accentuating the curves and textures of the dunes. The sky often erupts in a spectacular display of colors, reflecting beautifully off the white sand.
When shooting, consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape. A polarizing filter can help manage the intense glare from the white sand. Don't forget to protect your camera from the fine gypsum dust by using a lens hood and keeping it in its bag when not in use.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit