The best walks and hikes in White Sands National Park

Due to the exposed desert environment, preparation is key. Always carry more water than you think you'll need—at least one gallon (4 liters) per person, per day. Sun protection is essential, so bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. The sand reflects sunlight, increasing exposure. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and sturdy shoes. It's also wise to have salty snacks to help with hydration.

Yes, several trails are great for families. The Interdune Boardwalk is an easy, 0.4-mile (0.6 km) accessible walk that's perfect for all ages and strollers. For a bit more adventure on the sand, the Dune Life Nature Trail Loop is a one-mile loop that is manageable for most families, offering a chance to see animal tracks and unique desert plants.

The park offers a range of trail lengths. There are short, easy walks like the 0.5-mile Playa Trail and the 0.4-mile Interdune Boardwalk. Moderate options include the 1-mile Dune Life Nature Trail. For a more strenuous hike, the Alkali Flat Trail Loop is a challenging 4.7-mile (7.5 km) trek through the heart of the dunes.

The primary dangers are dehydration and getting lost. The desert sun is intense, and there is no shade or water on any of the trails. Always carry plenty of water. The uniform landscape can be disorienting; stay on marked trails, which use colored posts to guide you. It's easy to lose your way if you wander off-trail, especially on the longer routes. Before you go, check for any park alerts, as the park can close for missile testing from the adjacent White Sands Missile Range.

Yes, backcountry camping among the dunes is a unique experience. The Backcountry Camping Trail Loop leads to the designated camping sites. A permit is required and must be obtained in person at the visitor center on the day you plan to camp. Sites are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The park is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers consistently praise the otherworldly experience of walking on the cool, white gypsum sand and the stunning, minimalist landscapes. The quiet and solitude found deep within the dunefield are often highlighted as a major draw for visitors.

Yes, the Interdune Boardwalk is a 0.4-mile (0.6 km) accessible trail. It's an excellent, easy option that allows you to see the fragile ecosystem that exists between the dunes without walking on the sand. It's fully wheelchair-accessible and provides great views of the dunefield and the Sacramento Mountains.

The Alkali Flat Trail takes you into the heart of the dunefield. The landscape is a vast, starkly beautiful sea of steep, rolling white dunes with no vegetation. It follows the edge of the Alkali Flat, which is the dry lakebed of the ancient Lake Otero. Hikers are rewarded with spectacular, seemingly endless views of pure white sand against the blue sky.

Yes, the park offers several ranger-led programs that provide a unique way to experience the dunes. These include sunset strolls and full moon hikes. These programs are very popular and often require advance reservations. For the most current schedule and reservation information, it's best to check the official National Park Service website.

There are five official, marked trails in the park, offering a variety of lengths and difficulties. In addition to these, komoot features over 15 different routes mapped by the community, including variations and unmarked adventures through the open dunes, providing plenty of options for exploration.

The best times for hiking and photography are early in the morning and late in the afternoon. During these 'golden hours,' the temperatures are cooler, and the low-angled sun creates dramatic shadows and soft light, highlighting the ripples in the dunes. Midday hiking can be extremely hot and the light is often harsh for photos.