Stay on Track: Using Trail Markers in White Sands National Park

Ready to hit the trails this summer? Finding your way around looks a little bit different at White Sands, so, here’s some important information to know before embarking on the dunes.

Most of our trails will have trail markers rather than a obvious path through the sand. Make sure to follow orange markers like the one pictured to navigate your way through the dunes and back to your vehicle.

The pale evening primrose (Oenothera pallida ssp. Runcinata) is thriving along our Backcountry Loop Trail! This beautiful white flower, with its showy yellow pistils, provides both food and shelter to a variety of pollinators in the park. (Photo: NPS/Paige G.)

Sand dunes at the park are constantly moving and changing, this can mean a marker might be shorter than you are expecting or even fall over completely. Having a second method of navigation is always a good idea, but if you aren’t sure where to go next, don’t be afraid to turn around! Going back the way you came is always better than getting lost. Let rangers know if you see any downed markers.

Finally, make sure to drink plenty of water, use sun protection, and opt to hike early in the morning when temperatures are cooler.

Subscribe to the Daily Las Cruces Digest

* indicates required

Email Address *

First Name *How would you like to be addressed in personalized emails?

/* real people should not fill this in and expect good things – do not remove this or risk form bot signups */