White Sands National Park: Planning Your Visit
Weekend Trip From Phoenix
We made our visit to White Sands National Park a weekend adventure from Phoenix. On Friday, we drove about 3.5 hours east on I-10 to Indian Bread Rocks in Arizona, where we found a beautiful dispersed camping spot surrounded by giant boulders. The next morning, we continued another 3.5 hours to southern New Mexico, passing through the small towns along US-70 before arriving near Alamogordo.
For our second night, we stayed at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, about 30 minutes from the park entrance. The campground offers both tent and RV sites, restrooms, showers, and incredible views of the Sacramento Mountains. We loved that it was close enough to make it easy to catch both sunset and an early morning in the dunes without a long drive. Reservations are recommended, especially in spring and fall when temperatures are ideal.
If you’re planning a similar trip, keep in mind:
- Phoenix to White Sands is about 7 hours total driving time (we split it over two days).
- Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather, with cooler mornings and evenings.
Summer can be extremely hot and bright in the dunes, so visit early in the morning or later in the day.
Best Time to Visit White Sands National Park
White Sands is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, making hiking and exploring the dunes more comfortable. Summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures often reaching the 90s or higher, so plan for early morning or evening visits if traveling then. Winter brings cooler weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful low-angle light that makes the dunes look even more dramatic. No matter when you go, sunrise and sunset are magical times in the park, with the shifting light creating incredible colors and long shadows across the sand.
First Impressions
We absolutely loved White Sands National Park — it was everything we imagined from the photos and even more beautiful in person. It completely lived up to our expectations. Most of our trip planning came directly from the National Park Service’s White Sands National Park website, which has excellent resources for visitors.
The park is relatively small, with only one eight-mile out-and-back road. But once you’re on the dunes, it’s easy to feel completely isolated — just don’t get lost, especially since cell service can be spotty.
There’s plenty to do at White Sands, from hiking to the extremely popular sledding. While we didn’t go sledding, most visitors we saw were enjoying it. Many groups set up pop-up tents, chairs, and tables for a full day in the sand.
Tip: Bring sandals for casual walking on the sand, but wear boots if you plan to hike — the loose sand can make it easier to roll an ankle.
Getting to White Sands National Park
There is only one entrance to the park, located off US Route 70. From Phoenix, we took I-10 east toward Tucson, continued past Las Cruces, and then followed signs toward Alamogordo. Any maps app should give you accurate directions.
Once you arrive, you’ll find the visitor center and gift shop before the entrance fee booths. This is a great place to pick up maps, sleds, or souvenirs before heading into the dunes.
Quick Stats
Length:
5 miles
Route Type:
Out and back
Elevation Gain:
311 ft recorded
Vaulted Toilets:
Yes
Dog Friendly:
Yes
Fee:
Yes (Park Entrance)
Difficulty:
Moderate
Water:
No
Hiking the Alkali Flat Trail at White Sands National Park
Starting the Hike
We arrived at 10:30 am, a couple of hours after the park opened, and headed straight to the end of Dunes Drive near the Alkali Flat Trailhead. Parking can fill quickly on busy weekends, so we were glad to find a spot. After applying extra sunscreen, we set off in hiking boots with sandals strapped to our packs.
Following the Trail
The trail is marked by bright orange posts, which stand out against the white sand. Soon after starting, the loop forked, and we chose the right path for a short uphill climb. From the top, the view across the dunes was stunning, with wind-shaped ridges stretching out in every direction.
Crossing the Dunes
As the temperature rose, we decided not to complete the full loop. Instead, we cut across the dunes, which was both challenging and fun. We passed untouched areas shaped only by wind and rain, switched to sandals for comfort, and kept a close eye on Finnick to make sure he stayed hydrated.
Reaching the Flats
Eventually, we rejoined the trail on the far side of the loop. The highest point of the hike offers a view of the Alkali Flats — a dried lake bed within the park boundary — before the trail heads back toward the parking area.
Final Thoughts on Visiting White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park completely lived up to our expectations and then some. Between the vast, surreal dunes, the challenging yet rewarding Alkali Flat Trail, and the peaceful isolation you feel once you step away from the road, it’s a place that sticks with you.
Before you go, keep these tips in mind:
Bring plenty of water — There is no water available on the trails, and the heat plus sun reflecting off the sand can dehydrate you quickly.
Wear sun protection — Sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and lightweight long sleeves are your best friends here.
Footwear matters — Hiking boots work best for longer treks like the Alkali Flat Trail, but sandals can be nice for casual walking on the dunes.
Watch for missile range closures — The park is within White Sands Missile Range and occasionally closes for safety. Check the NPS website before you go.
Arrive early or stay late — Midday sun is harsh. Early morning and sunset offer cooler temps, fewer crowds, and amazing photo opportunities.
Dog-friendly — Leashed dogs are allowed on the dunes and trails, so it’s a great adventure for your pup.
Bring sleds if you want to try it — Plastic snow saucers work best for sliding down the dunes. You can also rent or buy them at the gift shop.
Whether you come for hiking, sledding, photography, or simply watching the light change across the white gypsum sands, White Sands is worth every mile of the drive. Plan ahead, take your time exploring, and enjoy this one-of-a-kind New Mexico landscape.
If you’re planning a Southwest road trip, you might also enjoy:
Big Bend National Park & Carlsbad Caverns NP – Rugged desert landscapes, dramatic canyons, and some of the best stargazing in the U.S.
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