When visiting White Sands National Park, the beauty of the expansive gypsum dunes is an unforgettable experience. However, like many tourist destinations, it comes with potential traps that can diminish the overall enjoyment. Here’s a detailed guide on six tourist traps to avoid, ensuring your visit is enjoyable, memorable, and cost-effective.
1. Overpriced Sled Purchases at the Gift Shop
One of the most popular activities at White Sands National Park is sledding down the pristine dunes. The park’s gift shop sells sleds, but the price may surprise you. New sleds can cost around $18, while used sleds, if available, are around $10. This might not seem like much at first, but it can quickly add up, especially if you are traveling with a group or family. An easy way to avoid this trap is to bring your own sled from home or purchase one from a local store before entering the park. For frequent visitors to parks like these, having a reusable sled is not only cost-effective but also eco-friendly. The park’s unique terrain allows for great sledding fun, but there’s no need to overspend on equipment you can easily bring yourself.
2. Lake Lucero: A Time-Limited Attraction
Lake Lucero holds a special place in the park’s history and geology. However, the catch here is that it is only accessible via ranger-led tours held during specific months of the year. These tours happen once a month between November and April, meaning if your visit doesn’t align with this schedule, you’ll miss out. For travelers expecting to explore this hidden gem on their own, this could lead to disappointment. It’s better to manage expectations or plan a visit during the tour schedule. If the timing doesn’t work out, White Sands National Park offers many other stunning attractions to fill your day.
3. Backcountry Camping Permit Restrictions
Backcountry camping sounds adventurous and is a unique way to experience the desert landscape at night. However, obtaining a permit can be more challenging than expected. The park only issues ten permits per day, making it highly competitive, especially during peak seasons.
For visitors who don’t manage to secure a permit, this can lead to frustration, as it may seem like a missed opportunity. To avoid this, it’s advisable to check for alternative accommodation options near the park or visit during off-peak times. Alternatively, exploring the park during the day and staying in nearby towns like Las Cruces or Alamogordo provides a more comfortable and stress-free experience.
4. The Underwhelming Visitor Center
Many national parks have impressive visitor centers filled with information, exhibits, and interactive activities. However, White Sands National Park’s visitor center, though informative, may not live up to some visitors’ expectations. While it serves as a good starting point for your journey, offering maps and park information, it’s not a place to spend much time. The gift shop sells typical souvenirs and sleds, but beyond that, the center doesn’t offer much in the way of exciting activities. A quick stop here to gather necessary materials is fine, but don’t let this be the highlight of your visit. The true allure of the park lies in its dunes, wildlife, and outdoor experiences.
5. Driving the Loop More Than Once
The park features a scenic eight-mile drive known as the Dunes Drive, where visitors can enjoy the stunning views from the comfort of their car. While this drive is a must-do, driving it multiple times may not offer much additional value. The loop is short, and the real magic happens when you step out of the car and experience the dunes firsthand. There are numerous places to park, explore the dunes, and take photographs. Instead of circling the loop again and again, it’s better to park at various points and get out to walk. Sledding, hiking, or simply sitting on the dunes to enjoy the vastness of the landscape is far more rewarding than repetitive driving.
6. Sunset Crowds: Overhyped and Overcrowded
Sunset at White Sands is often touted as a magical experience, with the sun casting long shadows over the dunes and painting the sky in shades of pink and orange. While beautiful, the popularity of sunset viewing can lead to large crowds, making it less peaceful than you might expect. If you’re looking for a serene experience, consider arriving earlier in the afternoon to explore the park at your own pace. The dunes are equally stunning during the quieter morning hours, and you’ll have more space to yourself for activities like sledding or photography. Alternatively, if you do stay for sunset, try to find a less crowded area away from the main spots.
Additional Tips for an Enjoyable Visit
- Bring Plenty of Water: One of the most common mistakes visitors make is underestimating how much water they’ll need. The park’s harsh desert environment can be dehydrating, and the only water refill station is located at the visitor center. Carry ample water, especially if you plan to hike or spend a full day in the park.
- Plan Ahead for Picnics: The park has picnic areas, but there are no food vendors or restaurants inside. Bringing a packed meal is essential if you plan to stay for an extended period. The dry, sandy environment is perfect for a leisurely picnic, but remember to leave no trace and take all your trash with you.
White Sands National Park is a remarkable destination, offering a unique desert experience in New Mexico. By avoiding these common tourist traps, you’ll ensure your visit is more enjoyable, budget-friendly, and stress-free. With proper planning and realistic expectations, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the natural beauty that this extraordinary landscape offers.
