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New Mexico
0.4 mi
Distance
19 ft
Gain
No conditions check on file for this trail yet — always verify current conditions before you go.
Why you'll love it
Ocotillo Loop
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.
The Ocotillo Loop is a short, accessible desert walk perfect for families and casual hikers seeking a quick nature outing. This easy trail showcases the distinctive ocotillo plant, a striking desert species with long, spindly branches that burst into vibrant red flowers in spring. The minimal elevation gain and compact distance make it an ideal introduction to New Mexico's Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem.
Interdune Boardwalk
~1h 16m drive
<p>The Interdune Boardwalk is fully accessible for people using wheelchairs and strollers. Take an easy 0.4 mile (650m) round trip stroll through the dunes and learn about the science, geology, plants, and animals that make White Sands an unequaled natural wonder. The boardwal…
Backcountry Camping Loop Trail
~1h 16m drive
<p>The Backcountry Camping Loop Trail is a moderate, 2-mile (3.5 km) roundtrip hike. Though backpackers hike the trail most frequently, it is also open to visitors who want a shorter hike through the heart of the dunes. Follow the orange trail markers with a spade symbol into…
First Stop of Backcountry Camping Loop Trail Tour
~1h 16m drive
<p>Welcome to White Sands National Park’s digital self-guided tour! If you see the Backcountry Camping Loop Trailhead in front of you, you’re in the right place.<br /> <br /> White Sands is far more than just a sandbox. Over time, this land has been home to countless creatures…
Backcountry Camping Loop Trail Restroom
~1h 16m drive
<p>The Backcountry Camping Loop Trail restroom has two separate wheelchair-accessible vault toilets with no running water, a dumpster, and trash and recycling bins. It is within a parking area with plenty of space to park automobiles and RVs, and there are accessible parking s…
Alkali Flat Trail
~1h 16m drive
<p>Red trail markers with a diamond symbol guide hikers along this strenuous, 5-mile (8 km) roundtrip hike. The Alkali Flat Trail skirts the edge of what is now the final remnant of Lake Otero. <strong>This trail is not flat!</strong> You will be hiking up and down dunes the e…
Dune Life Nature Trail
~1h 17m drive
<p>The Dune Life Nature Trail is a moderate, one-mile (1.6 km) self-guided loop hike. Though not difficult, this hike does require hikers to climb two steep dunes with loose sand. Follow the blue trail markers with a club symbol. Meet Katie the Kit Fox and learn about her frie…
Dune Life Nature Trail Restroom
~1h 17m drive
<p>The Dune Life Nature Trail restroom has two separate wheelchair-accessible vault toilets with no running water, a trash bin, and is adjacent to a parking area with plenty of space to park automobiles and RVs. There are accessible parking spaces directly in front of the rest…
Playa Trail
~1h 18m drive
<p>The Playa Trail is an easy, 0.5 mile (800m) round-trip, level trail with outdoor exhibits along the way to help you learn and explore this trail and the characteristics that make it special. Follow the green trail markers with a heart symbol that lead to a small playa. On t…
A Desert Oasis Interpretive Sign
~1h 18m drive
<p>Water is the focus of this interpretive sign on the Playa Trail. It describes how water is trapped in the basin and helps create the dried lakebed that is highlighted on this trail.</p>
"Just Add Water" Interpretive Sign
~1h 18m drive
<p>This interpretive sign on the Playa Trail showcases how water and the changing seasons create a hidden world that is waiting to come to life.</p>