Checking Out White Sands National Park Hours
Down in southern New Mexico, White Sands National Park is a gem. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful retreat, this place has got you covered.
Cool Stuff
White Sands has these amazing white gypsum dunes spread over 275 square miles. Here are some highlights that make this park a standout.
- Gypsum Dunes: These sands aren’t like your usual beach fare. Made of gypsum crystals, they get their unique white color from this mineral. Dive deeper into this in our white sands national park gypsum article.
- Hiking Trails: Five trails await you, varying in length and difficulty. So whether you’re up for a challenge or a casual stroll, there’s a path for you. Check details at white sands hiking trails.
- Sledding: Grab a waxed plastic saucer and slide down the dunes. It’s a fun-filled must-do. More tips in our sledding guide white sands national park sleds.
- Scenic Views: Snap some Instagram-worthy shots of the surrounding mountains and desert plants. Get photography tips at white sands national park photography.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Gypsum Dunes | White dunes made of gypsum crystals |
| Hiking Trails | Five trails, varying lengths and difficulties |
| Sledding | Waxed, plastic saucers down gypsum dunes |
| Scenic Views | Panoramic views of mountains and desert flora |
Getting In
Before heading to White Sands National Park, make sure you know the admission fees.
| Admission Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Vehicle | $25 |
| Motorcycle | $20 |
| Individual | $15 |
| Annual Pass | $45 |
The good news is, your admission is valid for seven days, so you’ve got plenty of time to explore. For more on this, visit white sands national park entrance fee.
The park also has some special activities like moonlight hikes and horseback riding. If you’re interested in bringing your own horse, look up the horseback riding rules and get the necessary permits.
For up-to-date info on park hours, contact details, and weather updates, the official NPS website has you covered.
Park Hours and Closure Updates
Get the most out of your visit to White Sands National Park by knowing when it’s open and any potential closures.
Daily Schedule
The park’s open all year, with a few exceptions, and hours change with the season. Except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day (National Park Service), you can soak in the beauty whenever you please. Different times of year offer different experiences, like seeing the white gypsum dunes under moonlight (Le Wild Explorer).
| Month | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| January | 7 AM | 6 PM |
| February | 7 AM | 7 PM |
| March | 7 AM | 8 PM |
| April | 7 AM | 8:30 PM |
| May | 7 AM | 9 PM |
| June | 7 AM | 9 PM |
| July | 7 AM | 9 PM |
| August | 7 AM | 9 PM |
| September | 7 AM | 8 PM |
| October | 7 AM | 7 PM |
| November | 7 AM | 6 PM |
| December | 7 AM | 5 PM |
Winter Closures
In winter, the park might close sometimes. Apart from the holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas (Visit Las Cruces), bad weather can also shut things down. Always check the latest updates on the park’s website before heading out to dodge any surprises.
For more planning tips, check out our info on White Sands National Park location and weather.
Happy exploring!
Pet Guide and Safety Rules
Heading out to White Sands National Park with your pet? Here’s the scoop on keeping both them and you safe while having an awesome time.
Leash Rules
Your pets are welcome at White Sands, but they gotta stay on a leash no longer than six feet (National Park Service). This keeps your pet and the local critters safe and makes sure everyone has a good time.
Before you even pop the car door open, get your pet on the leash. Leaving pets alone in a car, especially when it’s hot, is a no-go. Cars heat up super fast and that can be dangerous for your furry buddies.
Leash Tips:
- Max leash length: Six feet
- Keep pets leashed always
- Don’t leave pets alone in cars
Want more ideas for things to do with your pet? Check out White Sands camping.
Visitor Center No-Go Zones
Pets can roam most of the park, but spots like the visitor center and the gift shop are off-limits. This keeps things clean and chill for everyone. Service animals, of course, are the exception (National Park Service).
Hot day? Bring a friend to hang with your pet outside while you’re inside, or take care of business quickly so your pet isn’t left waiting too long.
No-Pet Zones:
| Area | Pet Policy |
|---|---|
| Visitor Center | No pets allowed (except service animals) |
| Gift Shop | No pets allowed (except service animals) |
Thinking about joining the Moonlight Hikes? Pets are welcome as long as they’re quiet, leashed, and you keep a close eye on them (NPS.gov).
Stick to these rules, and you and your pet can have a blast at White Sands National Park. For a deep dive into park rules, head over to White Sands National Park regulations.
Fun in the Sun: Outdoor Adventures in White Sands
Hiking Trails You’ll Love
Feel the magic of White Sands National Park on its five stellar hiking trails. Each offers a unique peek into the gypsum dunes and captivating vistas of the mountains. Here’s the lowdown:
| Trail Name | Distance (miles) | Difficulty | Time (hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playa Trail | 0.5 | Easy | 0.5 |
| Interdune Boardwalk | 0.4 | Easy | 0.5 |
| Dune Life Nature Trail | 1 | Moderate | 1 |
| Backcountry Camping Loop | 2 | Moderate | 2 |
| Alkali Flat Trail | 5 | Strenuous | 3 |
For the nitty-gritty on each trail, peep our guide on White Sands hiking trails.
Bike With a Smile, Not With a Fine
Cycling at White Sands National Park? Sure thing, but remember the rules to keep it safe and fun:
- Pedal only on Dunes Drive.
- No bike riding on hiking trails or in backcountry areas.
Need more details and tips? Our guide has your back: White Sands National Park regulations.
Extras You Need to Know
Get the lay of the land and enjoy the White Sands dunes to the max. Plan ahead with info on entrance fees here. Keep up with park hours by checking the latest updates here.
So grab your gear, hit the trails, and enjoy!
Unique Adventures at White Sands National Park
If you’re looking for unforgettable experiences, White Sands National Park has you covered. Whether it’s basking in moonlight during a hike or exploring the dunes on horseback, these activities promise to make your visit special.
Moonlight Hikes
Imagine walking through White Sands under a glowing full moon with the Moonlight Hike program. Available from March to November on nights around the full moon, this is a must-do.
What You Need to Know:
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Starting Point: Dune Life Nature Trail
- Tickets: Available two months before the hike at 8:00 am Mountain Time. These usually sell out fast. No waitlist (Discover Ruidoso).
- Pets: Dogs are welcome if they’re quiet, on a leash less than six feet, and controlled.
Moonlight Hike Schedule:
| Month | Dates Available | Ticket Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| March – November | Nights around the full moon | Two months prior at 8:00 am |
To enjoy a moonlit adventure, get your tickets early. Bring a flashlight and good hiking shoes. For info on park hours and activities, check our guides or the official park website.
Horseback Riding
Hop on a horse and ride through the stunning gypsum dunes. This offers a relaxing yet thrilling way to explore White Sands from a different angle.
Horseback Riding Tips:
- Permits: Get a permit from the Visitor Center before you ride.
- Trails: Use the marked horse trails for a safe journey.
- Bring Your Own Horse: No rentals here, so make sure your horse can handle sandy areas.
Follow the park guidelines and get your permit. For more rules, check out our regulations page.
Whether you’re hiking under the moon’s glow or riding through snowy dunes, these activities add something special to your visit. Plan ahead, secure what you need, and enjoy White Sands’ unique charm.
Extra Info for Your Visit to White Sands National Park
Planning a trip to White Sands? Here’s the scoop on what you’ll need to know, from entrance fees to how to get in touch if you have questions.
Entry Fees
No surprises here! Let’s break down the costs:
| Pass Type | Price | Lasts |
|---|---|---|
| Car Pass | $25 | 7 days |
| On Foot/Bike Pass | $15 | 7 days |
| Kids (15 and under) | Free | N/A |
For current rates and more details, check out our entrance fee page. Annual passes might cover your entry, so it’s a good idea to look into that too.
How to Reach Us
Got questions about your visit to [White Sands National Park]? Contact us directly with the info below:
Visitor Center:
- Phone: +1 (575) 479-6124
- Address: 19955 Highway 70, Alamogordo, NM 88310
For updates on park hours, closures, and weather, check out our weather page or drop by the Visitor Center.
While you’re here, don’t miss the dunes. Our map will help you find your way around easily. Happy exploring!
