White Sands National Park protects 275 square miles of brilliant white gypsum dune fields in the Tularosa Basin of southern New Mexico, representing the largest gypsum dunefield in the world. Unlike quartz-based desert sand, gypsum crystals remain cool to the touch even in summer heat, do not retain solar radiation in the same way as silica sand, and produce a distinctive powdery white surface that is well suited to sledding. Sand sledding has become one of the park's most popular activities, drawing families and adventure seekers to the dune crests along Dunes Drive for a low-cost, no-experience-required outdoor pursuit.
Sled rental is available at the park's visitor center gift shop for approximately $20 per sled, with a refundable deposit required. Rentals are returned to the gift shop on departure; the shop also sells sleds outright for visitors who wish to keep theirs. The park's gift shop frequently runs low on rentals on busy weekends, so early arrival is advisable. The most accessible dune sledding is concentrated along the first two miles of Dunes Drive, where pull-outs allow dune access within a 0.2-mile walk from parking.
No specialized skill or physical fitness level is required, and children as young as toddlers regularly participate with parental supervision. The park is open year-round, though White Sands is closed for up to three hours at a time without advance notice when White Sands Missile Range conducts testing on the adjacent military installation. Checking the park's NPS website or calling ahead is advisable before making a long drive from Alamogordo or Las Cruces.
The most comfortable sledding season is October through April, when daytime temperatures typically remain below 85°F (29°C). Summer visits require early morning starts—the white gypsum reflects intense radiation and conditions grow uncomfortable by mid-morning. Sunrise and early-morning visits in summer are rewarded with cooler conditions, soft pink-tinted light, and fewer visitors. Sunset visits are photogenic but may conflict with park closing times; confirm the current schedule at the visitor center.
Activity facts
- Where
- White Sands National Park, Tularosa Basin, New Mexico
- Duration
- 1-2 hours
Equipment
- Sled rental $20 at park gift shop (deposit required)
- Sunscreen essential
- Water
- Shoes (sand gets very hot in summer)
Location
19955 US-70, Alamogordo, NM 88310
32.7872, -106.3256 View on map
Highlights
- Sled down gypsum dunes in the world's largest white gypsum dunefield, covering 275 square miles in the Tularosa Basin
- Rent sleds at the park visitor center for around $20—no equipment or prior experience needed
- Explore a landscape of blinding white dunes that stay cool underfoot even on summer days
- Visit year-round with the most comfortable sledding temperatures from October through April
- Combine sledding with sunset photography over an otherworldly white desert landscape
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at the park visitor center early on weekends to secure a sled rental before stock runs low
- Confirm the park is not closed for missile testing by calling 575-479-6124 or checking the NPS website before making a long drive
- Apply sunscreen liberally; white gypsum reflects UV radiation from above and below, significantly increasing burn risk
- Bring at least 1 liter of water per person even for short dune walks—the desert air is extremely dry year-round
- Visit at sunrise for cooler temperatures, soft golden light, and lighter crowds than peak afternoon hours
Frequently asked questions
Can visitors bring their own sleds to White Sands?
Yes. Commercially available plastic disc sleds or foam sleds work well on gypsum dunes. Hard plastic gives better speed; a small spray bottle of water used to wet the sled bottom can improve glide.
How much does park entry cost?
Entry is $25 per vehicle (valid for seven days). America the Beautiful annual pass holders enter free. The pass covers all NPS sites and is worth purchasing for frequent national park visitors.
Why does the park sometimes close without notice?
White Sands Missile Range conducts missile testing on the adjacent military installation. Closures can last up to three hours and may occur without advance public notice.
Is sand sledding safe for young children?
Sand sledding at White Sands is one of New Mexico's most family-friendly adventure activities. Dune slopes are gradual, the gypsum surface is soft, and falls are low-impact. Young children should be supervised at all times.
Are pets allowed in the park?
Leashed pets are permitted in all outdoor areas of the park including the dunes and hiking trails. Pets are not permitted inside the visitor center building.