If you actually visit White Sands or more simply look at an unedited photo of them, they don’t look like snow, but there’s no denying their sheer whiteness. A combination of natural factors has resulted in this rare phenomenon. The first reason White Sands sands are white is due to their mineral composition – they are largely made up of gypsum, which has a natural white color.
However, gypsum sand is extremely rare, as the mineral dissolves easily in water. The unique geography of White Sands, the basin that surrounds it, prevents any rain that falls here from reaching the ocean, keeping gypsum concentrations high within the basin, leading to the bright white color you see, and sand that is cold to the ocean. touch. even in the heat of the day (more on that in a second!).
Things to do in White Sands
Even if you don’t have a music video to shoot, there are a myriad of ways to enjoy White Sands. In addition to hiking and trekking through the dunes, you can also go on a Dune Drive with your own vehicle, from 7 am to 7 pm Also, during the summer months, the park hosts classical music concerts under the stars every night. full moon, although it is unclear if “Water Runs Dry” is ever one of the songs played.
How to get to White Sands
White Sands is about an hour’s drive from Las Cruces, New Mexico, which is at the confluence of Interstates 10 and 25. Travel east from Las Cruces on US-70 W and follow the signs. The closest major metropolitan area to White Sands is El Paso, which is about 90 minutes south on US-54 W.
White Sands is also easy to visit from more popular destinations in New Mexico, such as Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Taos. In fact, since one of the routes from Santa Fe to Taos runs through scenic Ruidoso, it is possible to take a trip to White Sands on a very satisfying road trip. Another place near White Sands that you can’t miss is Cloudcroft, which has a real “Old West” feel and also allows you to get a wide view of White Sands from thousands of feet above.
When to visit White Sands
White Sands National Monument is open year-round, and while the region can be extremely hot in the summer, the white color of the sands keeps it surprisingly cool to the touch, making almost every day a perfect day to visit. However, mornings and afternoons are particularly great for photography, as the often spectacular colors of sunrise and sunset reflect off the sand, with a glorious visual effect.
Also, while the sand can be cool in the hot summer sun, White Sands is still a desert, and staying outside for too long in these temperatures could have adverse effects on your health, be wise.
You should also be aware that the park is occasionally closed due to missile testing of the near missile range. Check the park’s official ‘Closures’ page before your visit to make sure your first trip to White Sands is not your last!
