At the summit of the dunes hikers are treated to a view of the San Andres Mountains to the west. The white dunes that stretch across the valley mark the site of an ancient lake, Lake Otero, which evaporated after the last ice age to create selenite crystals that eroded into fine white gypsum sand.

Frost

June 2, 2025

Hiking

Early morning hiking to avoid the heat. Ok for dogs early in the day with water.

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#1.

Alkali Flat Trail

7.12km

01:48

10m

Hike the 4.4-mile Alkali Flat Trail in White Sands National Park, traversing soft gypsum dunes to the ancient Lake Otero dry lakebed.

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Easy

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#2.

Alkali Flat Trail

7.49km

01:54

10m

Hike the 4.7-mile Alkali Flat Trail in White Sands National Park, an easy route through stunning gypsum dunes.

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5.0

(1)

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#3.

Alkali Flat Trail Overlook – Alkali Flat Trail loop from Boles Acres

22.9km

05:46

30m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

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Informations

Elevation 1,200 m

Weather

Today

Saturday 28 March

20°C

6°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: Otero County, New Mexico, United States

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Alkali Flat Trail

Alkali Flat Trail Overlook

#1.

Alkali Flat Trail

#2.

Alkali Flat Trail

#3.

Alkali Flat Trail Overlook – Alkali Flat Trail loop from Boles Acres

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