Hey there, fellow adventurers! Buckle up as we embark on a journey through one of nature’s coolest playgrounds: White Sands National Park. Tucked away in New Mexico, this gem is like no other, with its shimmering sands and endless blue skies. So, grab your shades, and let’s dive into the fun and beauty that await us!
Exploring the Nature Walk at White Sands National Park
When hitting the nature trail at White Sands, think comfort first! Opt for comfy kicks or sandals that can handle the soft sands without giving you blisters. Sunscreen and shades are a must to beat that desert glare, and don’t skimp on the hydration—bring along a water bottle or two to stay cool under that desert sun.
Keep your peepers peeled for cool critters and unique desert plants along the way, and don’t be afraid to take it slow and savor the scenery. Stick to the marked trails to help keep the park pristine, and most importantly, have fun exploring! The only disappointing aspect about the nature walk is that the infographics throughout the walk were very worn down and hard to read.
Tips for Sledding on the Sand Dunes at White Sands National Park
Now, who’s up for some sledding action? Grab your sled, and let’s hit the dunes! It’s a wild ride down those sandy slopes, with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. But hey, don’t worry about wiping out—it’s all part of the fun! And trust me, the views from the top are totally worth the climb.
- Pick the Right Sled: Go for something sleek and sand-friendly, like a plastic saucer or snowboard. And no, your old-school metal sled won’t cut it here! Our RV park offered free sled rentals, so we just used the ones they had, which worked out perfectly!!
- Wax On, Wax Off: Give your sled a good wax job before hitting the dunes. It’ll help you zip down those slopes like a pro. Our RV park also offered free wax for us to use on the sleds, and it really did make the sleds go faster!
- Find Your Perfect Slope: Look for a dune with a gentle incline and a clear path. And watch out for tumbleweeds—those things can be tricky! We went out to the Alkali Flat Trail and found the perfect dune to sled down.
- Stay Safe: Slap on some sunscreen, grab a water bottle, and keep hydrated. Oh, and don’t forget to snag some epic selfies while you’re at it!
Watching the Sunset at the Park
Last but not least, let’s catch the sunset. Trust me, it’s a show you won’t want to miss. Find yourself a cozy spot, kick back, and watch as the sky explodes in a riot of colors. It’s pure magic, my friends—a perfect end to an epic day. We brought dinner with us and watched the sunset at Alkali Flat Trail two different times during our stay in Alamagordo, and enjoyed both times! If you’re in the area during a full moon, try to plan to visit during sunset because you’ll also have an incredible view of the moon as you exit the park.
They also have a guided sunset tour/hike with a park ranger, but we did not get the chance to do it on this visit.
More Tips for Visiting White Sands
- Wear comfortable shoes or sandals suitable for walking on sand.
- Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
- Apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife and unique desert flora along the way.
- Stay on designated trails to help preserve the fragile ecosystem.
- Take breaks as needed to rest and enjoy the scenery.
- Consider bringing a hat or visor for additional sun protection.
- Pack a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and memorable moments.
- Plan your visit around sunset for an unforgettable experience.
- Don’t forget to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.
So there you have it, folks—the lowdown on White Sands National Park. Whether you’re into nature walks, sledding adventures, or sunset spectacles, there’s something here for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. White Sands is waiting for you!
Let me know in the comments if you’ve been to White Sands National Park, and if so, what tips or must-see things you have to share. You can also check out this video I made of White Sands and give me a follow on Instagram while you are there.
Your Wandering VA, Tina 🙂
