White Sands National Park hiking guide
Alkali Flat Trail
A 4.3-mile trail with 660 ft of climbing in White Sands National Park.
Key facts
- Length
- 4.3 mi (6.9 km)
- Elevation gain
- 660 ft (201 m)
- Bikes
- Allowed
About Alkali Flat Trail
Trail markers lead you up and over rolling dunes, away from the road and into a quiet stretch of the dunefield. Near the far edge, the path reaches a salty expanse, the dry bed of an ancient lake that filled the Tularosa Basin in the last ice age. Shade is scarce, so bring plenty of water and sun protection. Blowing sand can hide the next marker, so watch closely and turn back if the trail disappears.
