Explore the world’s largest gypsum dune field —
A Dazzling, White Desert Like No Other
Spanning nearly 275 square miles, White Sands is home to a surreal landscape of rolling white dunes, with 230 square miles open for exploration. It's a playground for hiking, sledding, stargazing, and more.
Established in 1933 as a national monument and re-designated a national park in 2019, White Sands is open daily, year-round (closed only on December 25).
Park hours vary seasonally, and missile tests or weather may cause temporary closures. Always check the official website before visiting.
Quick Guide
Trekking to and through White Sands National Park
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Dunes Drive
16-mile round-trip scenic drive (approx. 45 min). Stop to hike, take photos, or sled down the dunes.
Visitor Center
Built in 1938, this Pueblo-Revival gem features exhibits, a bookstore, and helpful park info.
Ranger Programs
Enjoy guided sunset strolls, moonlit hikes, and special events all year long.
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Hiking & Trails
Explore trails for every skill level:
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Interdune Boardwalk (0.4 mi) – Easy, paved & accessible
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Playa Trail (0.5 mi) – See changing desert landscapes
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Dune Life Nature Trail (1 mi) – Great for spotting wildlife
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Backcountry Camping Trail (2 mi) – Backpacking adventure
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Alkali Flat Trail (5 mi) – Rugged trek with big views
🛷 Dune Sledding
Slide down powdery white slopes — fun for all ages!
Bring your own sled or rent one at the gift shop.
Best times: Early morning or late afternoon.
🚴 Biking & Driving
Bike designated dune routes
Drive Dunes Drive for sweeping views and trail access
🐎 Horseback Riding
Bring your own horse for a serene ride through the dunes.
Free permit & proof of insurance required.
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One of the park’s most popular events!
90-minute ranger-led hike under the moonlight
Starts at Dune Life Nature Trail
Offered monthly: $8 adults / $4 kids
🎟️ Tickets go fast — reserve online 2 months in advance
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From Las Cruces, NM (~50 min)
Take US-70 East over the Organ Mountains. Park is ~52 miles out, on the left, just past the Border Patrol checkpoint.
📌 Bring your passport if you're not a U.S. citizen.
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Open Daily Year-Round (closed Dec. 25)
Hours vary by season
Missile Test Closures may occur with little notice
🔎 Call ahead: (575) 479 6124 ext. 236 or 206
🔗 Or check the NPS Facebook or NM Road Conditions
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- $25/vehicle (good for 7 days)
- $15/person for walk-ins & cyclists
- Free for kids 15 and under
💳 Cash, checks, and most major cards accepted.
Fees are collected at the Dunes Drive entrance station.
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✅ Always check the official park website for hours, events, and any alerts.
🎉 Don’t miss seasonal events like:
- Lake Lucero Tours
- Mothapalooza
- Star Parties and more!
@visitlascruces Check out some day trips in the region!🚗 Visit our website for more fun ideas. 🔗visitlascruces.com #cityofrocks #whitesandsnationalpark #hatchnm #visitlascruces #lascrucesnm #nm ♬ original sound - Visit Las Cruces
@visitlascruces White Sands National Park is less than an hour from Las Cruces, NM. It is a pet-friendly place you can bring the WHOLE family and fun for everyone! #therealnewmexico #visitlascruces #newmexico #lascruces #whitesandsnationalpark #whitesands #petfriendly #petfriendlytravel #shihtzu ♬ I'm A Dog Mom - Meghan Trainor