Hike Backcountry Camping Trail, White Sands National Monument, New Mexico

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Are you looking for expansive views of snow-white gypsum dunes for miles? If so, this trail is for you. Hiking the Backcountry Camping Trail provides a sense of the magnitude of the world's largest gypsum dunefield while not having to venture too far from one's vehicle. The Backcountry Camping Trail is a moderate, 2-mile (3.5 km), round-trip hike. Though backpackers most frequently hike the trail, it is also open to visitors who want a shorter hike through the heart of the dunes. This trail is for foot travel only. No bicycles, horses, or motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail. Follow the orange trail markers with a spade symbol into an area of beautifully varied dunes and vegetation. This trail requires hikers to climb over several steep dunes and loose sand. 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: 6 miles (9.7 km) Trail marker color: Orange Trail marker symbol: Spade

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