Best hikes with kids in White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park in New Mexico offers a unique and magical landscape perfect for families exploring the outdoors with children. Here are 10 of the best short hikes in White Sands National Park that are perfect for kids:
- Playa Trail: This easy 0.4-mile loop trail takes you through the heart of the dunes, allowing kids to play and run on the soft white sand.
- Dune Life Nature Trail: A 1-mile loop trail that offers educational signs to learn about the plants and animals that call the park home.
- Interdune Boardwalk: A wheelchair-accessible 0.4-mile boardwalk trail that provides stunning views of the dunes and surrounding landscape.
- Alkali Flat Trail: While this 5-mile trail may be longer, the first mile offers a taste of the expansive dunes and is an excellent option for families looking for a bit more challenge.
- Backcountry Camping Trail: This 2-mile trail takes you into the backcountry camping area and offers a more secluded experience in the dunes.
- Old Monument Trail: A 0.8-mile trail that leads to the historic marker commemorating the first atomic bomb detonation at the nearby Trinity Site.
- Sunset Stroll: A short walk from the picnic area to the dunes provides a perfect opportunity to watch the sunset over the white sands.
- Lake Lucero Trail: A 2-mile trail that takes you to the source of the white gypsum dunes at Lake Lucero, a seasonal lake within the park.
- Backcountry Trail: This 3-mile trail offers a longer adventure into the park’s backcountry, perfect for families looking for a more remote experience.
- Heart of the Sands Trail: A 0.4-mile loop trail that takes you through the heart of the dunes, offering a chance to see the park’s beauty up close.
These short hikes in White Sands National Park provide excellent opportunities for families with kids to explore and enjoy the unique landscape of this stunning park.
Hiking in White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park in New Mexico offers a unique and unforgettable experience for families looking to hike with kids. With its stunning white gypsum dunes that stretch for miles, the park provides a magical playground for children and adults alike. Hiking in White Sands with kids can be thrilling, allowing families to explore the otherworldly landscape and learn about the park’s diverse ecosystem.
When hiking with kids in White Sands National Park, it’s essential to be prepared. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and hats to protect against the sun’s intense rays. Check out our favorite water jug! Additionally, wear sturdy shoes that can handle the sandy terrain. Encourage your children to take breaks as needed and set a comfortable pace that allows everyone to enjoy the hike without feeling rushed.
The Dune Life Nature Trail is one of the best family-friendly hikes in White Sands. This easy 1-mile loop trail offers informative signs that teach hikers about the plants and animals that call the dunes home. Kids will love spotting animal tracks in the sand and learning about the adaptations that allow life to thrive in this harsh environment. For a more challenging adventure, families can tackle the Alkali Flat Trail, a 5-mile loop that takes hikers deeper into the heart of the dune field. This trail offers breathtaking views of the expansive white sands and is a great way to immerse kids in the park’s beauty.
Overall, hiking with kids in White Sands National Park is an enriching experience that allows families to connect with nature and create lasting memories. You can ensure a fun and safe adventure in this one-of-a-kind landscape by being prepared, taking breaks as needed, and choosing trails that suit your family’s abilities.
What to learn more about White Sands National Park? Check out: White Sands National Park – Our SWELL Travel Guide!
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read our disclosure policy.
“Every grain of sand is a jewel waiting to be discovered.” – Anonymous
May all your adventures be SWELL!