White Sands National Park

White Sands National Park in the Tularosa Basin in southern New Mexico, USA, lies between the San Andres and Sacramento Mountains and protects part of the world's largest gypsum dune field: about 275 square miles (712 km²) of white sand. The national park covers just over 40 per cent of it; the rest belongs to the White Sands Missile Range. The gypsum comes from the area around Lake Lucero and the Alkali Flat. The visitor centre is an adobe building in Spanish Pueblo style from 1936 to 1938.

Dunes Drive leads 8 miles (13 km) into the dunes; the first 5 miles (8 km) are paved, after which a firm gypsum road follows. Without stops, allow about 45 minutes for the round trip, or about half a day with walks and sledding. Sledding takes place away from the road and plants, usually on waxed plastic saucers from the park shop. The Dune Life Nature Trail is a 1-mile (1.6 km) loop over two steep dunes; the marked Alkali Flat Trail (5 miles, 8 km round trip) is regarded as a winter hike. Sunrise and sunset are the best times.

Temperatures can swing by up to 50°F (28°C) in a day; Lonely Planet suggests about 1 gallon (nearly 4 litres) of water per person per day. Because of tests on the Missile Range, Dunes Drive can be closed for up to three hours, so allow some slack. Ask in advance whether backcountry camping is currently offered.