White Sands National Monument is a U.S. National Park, preserving a major portion of the dune fields along with the plants and animals that live there. After you get past the strip malls, the suburbs fade into sparse single-family homes, and then ranches. However, the unique conditions at White Sands National Park (hot, dry weather) have helped create the large expanse of gypsum sand dunes seen here. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. Sleds cost $24.99 and wax (highly recommended!) Programs are offered for a variety of ages and interests. Riley the roadrunner will guide you through fun-filled, age-appropriate activities for you and your family as you explore the world's largest gypsum dunefield. Known for its dramatic landscapes of unique white gypsum sand dunes, the photographic possibilities are endless here. This is the most popular ranger-guided hike. White Sands National Park protects the world's largest gypsum dune-field, and the unique plants and animals that survive in this other-worldly place. These footprints date back to 23,000 years ago, Best Things to Do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, How to Hike Guadalupe Peak, aka the Top of Texas, 10 Best Things to Do in Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Big Bend, 10 Day Texas New Mexico Road Trip Itinerary, The Complete Guide to the US National Parks, Complete List of the US National Parks (+ FREE Printable Checklist), 8 Amazing Things to do at Great Sand Dunes National Park, 10 Day Texas New Mexico National Parks Road Trip Itinerary, 10 Best National Parks to Visit in March (USA), 10 Best National Parks to Visit in February (USA). And with its short list of must-see sights, you dont need to spend a whole lot of time here to really get to know this place. In 2020, White Sands National Park in New Mexico replaced White Sands National Monument. Cancellations: Weather at the park can vary drastically and change quickly. Anyone can take good pictures at White Sands National Park, regardless if you are shooting with your phone or a top-of-the-line DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) camera. WINTER: Daytime highs are usually in the high 50s to low 60s with below freezing temperatures at night. It looks like you are wearing hiking boots in the photos? Park operating hours vary by season. Dunes Drive: Go on a Scenic Drive There is only one road in White Sands National Park and that road is Dunes Drive. On July 16, 1945, the first atomic bomb was test donated at the Trinity Site, which is on the far northern end of the White Sands Missile Range, miles away from the national park. Regardless of whether youre driving or flying, well help you get here. We included White Sands in our Texas and New Mexico National Park tour, sandwiching it between Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Carlsbad Caverns. Deserts have unique hazards. In fact, to be more accurate, the White Sands has officially become a National Park on December 20, 2020. This "Plan Your Visit" section has all kinds of helpful information, including basic information on the park, things to do, eating and sleeping, safety, accessibility, and nearby attractions. We spent two nights in Alamogordo and both nights ate at D. H. Lescombes Winery and Bistro and highly recommend it (make a reservation in advance). This is the driest time to visit the park (although rainfall remains relatively low all year). Get tour times here. 88330, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Top ways to experience White Sands National Monument and nearby attractions PistachioLand Farm Tour 93 Recommended Trolley Tours from 4.85 per adult UTV Adventure Tour / Rental 4 from 348.95 per group (up to 4) El Paso Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate 4 from 61.37 per adult Begin your journey at the visitor center. We spoke to a park ranger, and once backcountry camping becomes available again, the campsite schedule is released two weeks in advance. From both of these trails, you dont have to walk far to see undisturbed dunes. Julie Last updated: July 2, 2022 United States 2 Comments. Free Cancellation. About White Sands National Park White Sands National Park is one of the great natural wonders of the world. It is necessary to have a sufficient amount of fuel and a spare tire in case of a flat. There are several ranger-guided hikes at White Sands National Park. Along the road, you will find wayside exhibits, hiking trails, picnic areas, vault toilets, and parking areas. This entire trail is an elevated boardwalk that leads out to a viewpoint of the dunefield and the Sacramento Mountains off in the distance. 50 years of Hatch Chile Festival: 1972 cofounder will lead this year's parade . Dont miss out on any of our upcoming events. On this nature trail, you will get to hike up and over the white sandy dunes. The dunes offer countless opportunities for discovery and it is our sincere hope that you will have fun, make lifelong memories, and develop a deep connection to a place that has provided spiritual and physical sustenance to humankind for thousands of years. Dunes Drive from the White Sands is a looped road reaching the dune field. White Sand Dunes National Park is the world's largest gypsum dune field, which spans 275 square miles. Ranger programs are the perfect way to learn more about White Sands National Park and the amazing diversity found here. Rangers will share the geologic story of White Sands National Park as you traverse a steep gully down to the lake bed and walk by thousands of exposed selenite crystals, which are critical to the formation of the gypsum sand. At first glance, White Sands National Monument might appear to be a dry dune field devoid of life with the exception of a few small shrubs. If you drive from the park entrance to the end of Dunes Drive, it takes 15 to 20 minutes. There is more plant life here than in the heart of the park, which gives this trail the name Nature Trail. Along the loop, numerous signs teach you about the plants and animals that thrive in this basin. Dont Forget Your Sunglasses! Our website uses cookies. "Every sunset is different . Offered November through March. FALL: Daily highs and lows are very similar to springtime, but rainfall chances increase slightly. Besides rarely found in sand form, it's even rarer to find gypsum sand in the form of dunes, making this 275-square mile dune fields a one-of-a-kind . In 2021, almost 800,000 people visited the national park. From. There may be some washboarding on this section of road, but it is suitable for standard vehicles, motorcycles, RVs and bicycles. Best Time to Visit White Sands National Park How to Get Here Where to Stay & Eat Things to Know Before You Go Important Planning Information Where Are You Going Next? NM The temperature at White Sands can also get a little extreme. White Sands is one of the country's newest National Parks. Itinerary: Salt Lake City - Moab - Arches - Canyonlands - Capitol Reef - Bryce Canyon - Lake Powell - Grand Canyon - Flagstaff - Seligman/Route 66 - Las Vegas. We had soft sand if a few places, but for the most part, we walked on frozen, hard sand. new adventures through a one-stop shop for inspiration and ideation, trip planning, information sharing, All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. White Sands National Monument is a U.S. National Monument located in the state of New Mexico on the north side of Route 70 about 16 mi southwest of Alamogordo in western Otero County and northeastern Doa Ana County. Join a ranger and explore the mysteries of a geologic wonder sculpted by wind and water that preserves the ancient past and shelters an incredible diversity of plants and animals. You could even do it barefoot (we have friends who hiked this trail barefoot). Plan ahead to ensure you have a great and safe hike. Roughly 600.000 people come to visit the White Sands in New Mexico each year, which makes it the most frequented national park in New Mexico. The key to having a fun and an exciting experience camping at the park is preparation and common sense. Go sledding on sand dunes as white as the snowthis is one of the best things to do in White Sands National Park. If your visit is part of a bigger road trip through New Mexico and Texas, here is more information to help you plan your trip: CARLSBAD CAVERNS: Best Things to Do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park GUADALUPE MOUNTAINS: How to Hike Guadalupe Peak, aka the Top of Texas BIG BEND: 10 Best Things to Do in Big Bend National Park BIG BEND: Big Bend Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Big Bend ROAD TRIP ITINERARY: 10 Day Texas New Mexico Road Trip Itinerary NATIONAL PARKS: The Complete Guide to the US National Parks NATIONAL PARKS: Complete List of the US National Parks (+ FREE Printable Checklist). Here are the driving distances and times from other nearby destinations: If you are looking for a cool road trip idea, you can combine White Sands National Park with Carlsbad Caverns, Guadalupe Mountains, and Big Bend National Parks. Best Time to Visit White Sands National Park, Get updates on road conditions and trail closures, as you plan your trip and just before your visit, on the, Read all of our articles about the United States in our. The Backcountry Camping Trail is a shorter version of the Alkali Flat Trail. -White Sands was originally a "National Monument" until 2019 when it received the distinction of being a "National Park." Because it is such a new park, many of the park components such as a permanent entrance sign were not available quite yet. The White Sands Missile Range is a military testing ground that was established in 1945. In March, the nights are cool and can get below freezing, but by May, the lows are in the 50s. The key to having a fun and an exciting experience camping at the park is preparation and common sense. Read the important safety information to ensure you have the best time possible! Refunds will also be provided for programs that are canceled by park staff for any reason PRIOR to program start time. White Sands National Park participates in several community events throughout the year. As you dig deeper, you'll also find maps, directions, operating hours and seasons, a listing of fee-free days, information on fees and passes, brochures, and even details on permits and reservations. On either side of this national park, you'll find empty land and a military base where missiles are tested. 11:30 am - 12:45 pm: We hiked Playa Trail, Dune Life Nature Trail, and Interdune Boardwalk. Get the full details here. Pets: Pets are allowed in park and on most programs. These pure white dunes create a fun place to explore, for both kids and adults. Rising from the heart of the Tularosa Basin is one of the world's great natural wonders, the glistening white sands of New Mexico. Duration: 7 Days and 6 Nights Tour Type: USA Escorted Coach Tours Tour Activity: National Parks Tour Region: American Southwest , Rocky Mountains Region. The park is renowned for the white sands, white sand rock formations, and the . Call the park at 575-479-6124 ext. Since this park is entirely located within the White Sands Missile Range, there are some important things you should know as you plan your trip and we cover those, too. Then backpack to your assigned site and become a guest of the nocturnal animals that make their home in this unique ecosystem. All Mothapalooza events are available online. Plants found at White Sands. V Fees and Passes: There is a separate fee to enter the park, which is charged on site. There are five trails to choose from throughout the park, ranging in length from 0.5 to 5 miles - we recommend starting with the Dune Life Nature Trail, a mile-long loop. Pass Discounts: Pass discounts are not available for White Sands Tours Water: There is NO WATER available in the dunefield area. Cheers, Julie, Your email address will not be published. White Sands National Park is located in southern New Mexico. The park is occasionally closed for periods of time due to missile tests on the adjacent White Sands Missile Range. This park is gated and once the gate is closed, you wont be able to get in or out. However, these cold temperatures froze the sand and made it a lot easier to hike on the dunes. White Sands is a stunning natural wonder that is located in the Tularosa Basin at a height of 4235 feet. Rome2rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant . Dip your toes in the turquoise water and enjoy the fine white sands, watch the Golden Island from the Golden Island lookout, and have a bird-eye view of the healthy reef system in Coffin Bay National Park.Travel through amazing sand dunes to the exclusive and beautiful beach around Gunyah . It looks like the road is snow-covered but nope, thats just sand. The Full Moon Hike follows the Dune Life Nature Trail and is rated as moderate. Alkali Flat Trailhead | Best Things to Do in White Sands National Park, Alkali Flat Trail | Best Things to Do in White Sands National Park, View of the dunes from the trail | Best Things to Do in White Sands National Park. October 4, 2022 by Hernn Gonzales. The dunes in White Sands arent huge, but you will hike up and down quite a few of them. If you get started early enough, you can hike the trail without another person in sight. Entrance Fee. Have you ever wondered how the white sands formed? You can get updates on missile testing and road closures on the National Park Service website. How Much Time Do You Need in White Sands National Park? It is a splendid opportunity to experience the dunes first-hand while learning about the uniqueness of our geology, plants, and animals. This park is small and easy to navigate. From here, it takes an hour and a half to drive to White Sands National Park. You're about to become part of an amazing legacy that stretches back in time over more than 10,000 years. Take a tour to Lake Lucero, often called the birth place of the dunes, and learn about the natural forces that created and help sustain the world's largest gypsum dunefield. It's a ranger-guided tour that starts about an hour before sunset and highlights the panoramic views of the area. October 16, 2022. Holloman AFB Gypsum is mined at sites around the world and it is used in drywall, fertilizer, plaster, shampoo, and even silken tofu.. The first four miles of Dunes Drive are paved and the last four miles are a hard-packed, gypsum road. Considering White Sands National Park. Mammals, Reptiles, Amphibians and Insects at White Sands. Read all of our articles about the United States in our United States Travel Guide. Find all the transport options for your trip from El Paso to White Sands National Park right here. The White Sands lay in the Tularosa Basin in the . This is the longest, toughest hike in the park. It is the largest gypsum dunefield in the world. However, these spots can be crowded. 2) Hike the Dune Life Nature Trail. Hike the dunes under the glow of the full moon. Home to more than 40 unique, endemic species of moths, White Sands National Park continues to be a place of exciting scientific discovery. Interdune Boardwalk . Let us help you get the most out of your visit. If you return your sled when you are finished with it, you get a free koozie. Learn about and explore the alluring landscapes of the Desert Southwest. Recreation.gov is your gateway to explore America's outdoor The white sand dunes are made of gypsum crystals. Most sledding visitors use waxed, plastic snow-saucers, which can be purchased at the park gift shop. To take part in the program, you must make a reservation. This hike is perfect for those who want to hike out into the dunes without doing a long, strenuous hike. This time of year, visitors will see the desert wildflowers in full bloom, and the spring sunsets tend to be incredible. From this town, it takes 20 minutes to drive to the park entrance. Located roughly 45 miles east of Las Cruces on U.S. Highway 70. White Sands National Monument is one of those less known treasures that is located in southern New Mexico. White Sands National Monument Photo by Greg Schechter- Wikimedia. White Sands National Park appears in our Best US National Parks Month-By-Month series as a great park to visit in February, March, and November. If you want to hike on the dunes but not go too far, this is a trail to consider. Hiking is definitely one of the best ways to explore White Sands National Park. 88330, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. In a half of day, you can hike one to two trails and do a little bit of sledding. A brief introduction to White Sands National Park. Whether participating in a ranger-led tour on foot, an overnight excursion at a backcountry campsite, an afternoon picnic on the sand, an eight-mile scenic dune drive, or sledding on the steep faces of the dunes, you are sure to enjoy your time spent on . Visitors are encouraged to contact the park for more information on closure dates and times at: (575) 479-6124 . In honor of the 100th year anniversary join us for a three part audio program on the 19th Amendment. Hike on the dunes at sunset with a park ranger. Most sledder's use waxed, plastic snow-saucers, which can be purchased at the park gift shop. A Short History of the National Monument. How to Use This Map: Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. Cycling through the park offers unobstructed views of an ever-changing dunefield and allows your senses to truly experience the sights and sounds of this unique landscape. Thanks in advance! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Dip your toes in the turquoise water and enjoy the fine white sands, watch the Golden Island from the Golden Island lookout, and have a bird-eye view of the healthy reef system in Coffin Bay National Park.Travel through [] It runs from the park entrance into the heart of the dunefield. Hours of Operation: This park is gated and once the gate is closed, you wont be able to get in or out. Outside of the park, Alamogordo is the best place to stay. The tallest sand dunes in White Sands are 60 feet tall. The park covers an area of 115.8 square miles (300 sq km). On a sunny day, the white sand is highly reflective and almost blinding, just like being out in the snow. The park is located within White Sands Missile Range and both the park and road are often closed when testing is taking place. White Sands National Monument is a United States National Monument located in the state of New Mexico on the northern side of the Chihuahuan Desert. Enjoy a moonlit evening as White Sands National Park extends is closing time. Please check the park's website for current schedule. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Please carpool with friends and family. A park ranger we spoke to gave us this tip: wax the sled in stripes in the direction that you want to go, if you want to go fast. serts have their own unique hazards. Where to begin? Millions of years ago, this area was covered by shallow seas. and cultural destinations in your zip code and across the country. That's where White Sands National Park is. White Sands National Park is in New Mexico and it is located entirely within the White Sands Missile Range. If you leave El Paso headed southbound, you'll immediately find yourself in Juarez, Mexico, but if . Recreation.gov. This is a good place to go to the bathroom, go shopping in the gift shop, talk to a park ranger about park conditions, or grab a bite to eat (there is a small concession stand here). Climate. We want you to be safe while you delight in the beauty of our glistening white sands. March 12, 2020. We loved it, although by the end, it does start to get a little bit monotonous, as the views dont change a whole lot. Virtual Tours of White Sands National Park: YouTube A Tour of White Sands National Park (4m) There are a handful of trails, but one of the best parts about photography in White Sands is that there is no "one place" to go. Not only is the weather cooler, but the sand can freeze, making it much easier to hike on the dunes. Entrance fees are currently $25 per vehicle. The powdery, white gypsum dunes not only look like snow, they behave like it as well. Pets are not allowed inside of the visitor center. White Sands National Park preserves a . The day before our visit, it snowed, and when we did this hike, the morning low was in the high 20s. Holloman AFB This was not something that we did (backcountry camping was not offered during our visit) but it looks like an amazing experience. I dont know for sure, but I think the used sleds are re-sold. Rome2rio makes travelling from El Paso to White Sands National Park easy. 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Your next visit next visit parks, White Sands National park & Missile Range have safe.
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