National Park · NM

Things to do in White Sands

The National Park Service lists 8 things to do at White Sands National Park. 8 have no extra fee, 8 need no reservation, and 8 allow pets. Each listing links to the full NPS page. Data is from the NPS snapshot of Oct 28, 2026.

Updated · NPS Data API

Two people silhouetted on top of a white dune with blue sky overhead
Photo: NPS

Hiking Alkali Flat Trail

Imagine yourself surrounded by the spectacular views of endless dunes with few footprints. The Alkali Flat Trail takes you through the heart of the sands, up and over steep dunes to the edge of Alkali Flat.

3-5 Hours Year-round Pets allowed

Front-Country Hiking

A pink sky at dusk over an interdune area
Photo: NPS

Hiking Backcountry Camping Trail

Are you looking for expansive views of snow-white gypsum dunes for miles? Hiking the Backcountry Camping Trail provides a sense of the magnitude of the world's largest gypsum dunefield.

2-3 Hours Year-round Pets allowed

Front-Country Hiking

Close up of a large lizard with blue face and tail
Photo: NPS

Hiking Interdune Boardwalk

The Interdune Boardwalk is an elevated boardwalk that leads you through the fragile interdune area to a scenic view of the dune field and the Sacramento mountains.

15-30 Minutes Year-round Pets allowed

Front-Country Hiking

a row of curved metal structures provides shade to picnic tables on a concrete pad.
Photo: NPS Photo

Picnicking at White Sands

White Sands National Park offers three picnic areas where people can enjoy shade, relaxation, and access to the parks incredible dunes.

Year-round Pets allowed

Picnicking

sitting on top of a white dune with dunes stretching to the horizon. A trailhead sign seen below.
Photo: NPS Photo

Sledding at the Alkali Flat Trailhead

The Alkali Flat trailhead parking area has some of the tallest dunes to go sledding at White Sands.

Year-round Pets allowed

Playground

two picnic shelters with metal toppers sit in front of a tall white dune
Photo: NPS Photo

Sledding at the Roadrunner Picnic Area

The Roadrunner Picnic area is an excellent place to go sledding with friends and family at White Sands National Park.

Year-round Pets allowed

Playground

Before you go

Check current alerts and closures, entrance fees and operating hours for White Sands. Programs and tours can change with the season or be cancelled on short notice — confirm on the NPS page before you plan around one.

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