5 Exhilarating Hikes To Take in White Sands National Park

We hope you enjoy a little sand in your shoes 

White Sands National Park is one of the most unique places in the United States. It’s home to the largest gypsum (a type of mineral found in the sand) dune field in the world, and it’s a must-see for anyone visiting southern New Mexico.

While the national park designation is fairly new, only becoming one in 2019, the area where the park resides was named a national monument by President Hoover in 1933. The park itself is surrounded by military bases, including White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base.

This causes the park to be in a very uncomfortable situation, as the military frequently conducts missile and bomb tests close to the park, causing potential dangers. However, the park is always closed during these tests and has never had any major incidents.

It’s also been the site of many movie shoots, including the famous scenes from Transformers, Independence Day, and The Book of Eli, just to name a few.

While you might think that a barren desert landscape might not have any interesting hikes, White Sands National Park has some truly breathtaking trails. Just remember that the park requires you to pay a fee to enter and use any of the trails on our list.

So let’s dive right into our top five favorite trails.

Playa Trail

The first trail on our list is less of a hike and more of an educational walk focusing on the area that the park stands on.

This self-guided trail takes you through the history of the park’s changes. From the plants and animals to human history, including the involvement of Native Americans and settlers in the area. Near the end, you will also step back in time and learn about the dinosaurs that roamed these lands, so be ready for a full history lesson on this trail.

Total Distance: 0.37 miles

Elevation Gain: 0 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Walking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be leashed.
• This is an outdoor exhibit trail.
• Little to no shade on this trail — sunscreen is recommended.

Interdune Boardwalk

Looking a for a short and relaxing hike in the dunes? Look no further than Interdune Boardwalk.

This boardwalk trail allows you to traverse through the gypsum dunes without damaging them, as it can take years for the delicate dunes to recover from even a small footprint. As you take a stroll, the entire boardwalk is lined with informative signs that provide information on the ecology and history of the dunes.

Total Distance: 0.37 miles

Elevation Gain: 0 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Walking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• This is an informative trail, and less of a hike.
• This trail has little to no shade — sunscreen is recommended.
• Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be leashed.
• This trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Dune Life Nature Trail

Get up close and personal with the dunes at Dune Life Nature Trail. This trail takes you up and over two of them.

While this is a shorter trail, don’t underestimate the difficulty of climbing two steep sand dunes with the sun beating down. Be sure to keep your eyes open for any animals that call these dunes home, especially reptiles and smaller rodents. There are also signs that will provide valuable information on the flora and fauna of the park.

Total Distance: 0.99 miles

Elevation Gain: 0 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Walking, Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• Sunscreen and water are recommended for this hike.
• Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be leashed.
• Please do not walk off of the trail as footprints can damage the sand dunes.

Alkali Flat Trail

The longest trail on our list — and while you might consider this trail easy because of the name, Alkali Flat Trail, this hike is anything but flat.

This trail takes you through the majestic dunes and gives you a sense that you are on another planet. While you might consider the sand to be very hot, there are many times during the year when it is quite cool, so hikers opt to wear sandals or hike the entire trail barefoot! It’s quite a unique experience and one that shouldn’t be missed.

Total Distance: 4.72 miles

Elevation Gain: 52.4 feet

Difficulty: Moderate - Walking, Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• Please follow the marked signs when hiking this trail.
• Dogs must be leashed on this trail.
• Sunscreen and water are recommended for this hike.
• Please don’t go off the trail, there are signs where unexploded bombs are marked.

White Sands Backcountry Trail

Get up early or stay late to hike the White Sands Backcountry Trail during sunrise or sunset for some of the most amazing views in all of White Sands National Park.

See the spectacular view of the sun hitting the sand dunes, casting a beautiful orange, white and red glow. As you hike, take in the quiet beauty of the desert and the diverse wildlife that calls it home, such as jackrabbits, roadrunners, and coyotes. You will want your camera for this trail.

Total Distance: 1.80 miles

Elevation Gain: 6.5 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Walking, Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• Sunscreen and water are recommended for this hike.
• Please follow the marked signs when hiking this trail.
• Dogs must be leashed on this trail.

Whether you are visiting White Sands National Park for a day or a week, these hikes are sure to give you an unforgettable experience. From educational walks to stunning views, these hikes have something for everyone.

So grab your hiking boots and hit the trails! Happy hiking!