Hike Alkali Flat Trail, White Sands National Monument, New Mexico

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Imagine yourself surrounded by the spectacular views of endless dunes with few footprints. If you yearn for these views, the Alkali Flat Trail is for you. This trail takes you through the heart of the sands, up and over steep dunes, to the edges of the Alkali Flat. The Alkali Flat is the dry lakebed of Lake Otero, a lake that filled the bottom of the Tularosa Basin during the last ice age and covered 1,600 square miles. This is a strenuous hike with a total distance of five miles (8 km), round-trip. Although the name of the trail is "Alkali Flat," please note that this trail is not flat! This trail is for foot travel only. No bicycles, horses, or motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail. Follow the red trail markers with a diamond symbol through the heart of the expansive dunefield. Look carefully for the next trail marker before continuing. If you cannot see the next trail marker because of blowing sand or because the trail marker is knocked down, do not proceed—return to your car. Strong winds, especially in the spring, can reduce visibility to a few feet, making it easy to become lost.You do not have to hike the entire trail to enjoy the spectacular scenery. Make sure that you are off the trail by sunset. Distance from visitor center: 7 miles (11.2 km) Trail marker color: Red Trail marker symbol: Diamond

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