154: Exploring White Sands National Park: Best Tips + Activities

Picture cloud-white sand surrounding you on every side, with the Sacramento Mountains as your backdrop, and a sunset that turns everything a shade of pink and purple. THAT’s the awe that is waiting for you at White Sands National Park. Well, that and some other fun activities like hiking through nature trails, and even sledding! We’ll also take you through all the quirky rules this park has that no other national park does — and what makes White Sands so incredibly unique.  In this episode, we cover: The two things that make White Sands totally different from every other national park The working missile range, located next to the park A driving tour down Dunes Drive, including the Playa Trail, Dune Life Nature Trail, and Interdune Boardwalk How to sled the dunes (hint: cardboard boxes don't cut it) Why so many commercials, movies, and music videos have been filmed here The best ranger program in the park and why sunset is non-negotiable Where to stay, eat, and detour in nearby Alamogordo Your task for today: Have you been to White Sands for sunset? Head over to the @DirtInMyShoes Facebook or Instagram page, find your favorite sunset photo from the dunes, and tag us so we can see it too! Don't miss the full show notes packed with all the links we mentioned so you can plan your adventures like a pro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/exploring-white-sands-national-park/ Planning your own White Sands National Park adventure? 5 Things You Can’t Miss On Your First Visit to White Sands: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/5-things-cant-miss-first-visit-white-sands/  Episode 49: Best National Parks for Young Kids (White Sands National Park makes the list!):  https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/best-national-parks-for-young-kids/  Episode 105: 8-Day Spring Break National Parks Road Trip (that includes White Sands National Park): https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/8-day-spring-break-national-parks-road-trip/  Master Reservation List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/list/ National Park Checklist: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-parks-checklist/ Trip Packing List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/pack/