News Release

Under the Stars at the Salt Basin Dunes

Date: August 1, 2022

Salt Flat, Texas – On Friday August 12, 2022, at 7:30 pm, Guadalupe Mountains National Park will conduct a moonlight hike to the Salt Basin Dunes. This program will begin at the Salt Basin Dune Trailhead located at the end of Williams Road near Dell City, TX, and will last approximately two hours and cover two miles of hiking.

The Salt Basin Dunes ecosystem comes alive at night, as many of the reptiles, insects, and other creatures that live there are nocturnal. Join park staff for this unique opportunity to explore the dunes at twilight and under bright moonlight, and potentially be able to see some of the Perseid meteor shower. Please wear closed toed shoes, bring plenty of water, and dress for the weather. A flashlight is also encouraged, preferably with a red filter.

To reach the Salt Basin Dunes from Highway 62/180, turn north on FM road 1576. Drive north 17 miles then turn right on Williams Road. Travel 7.5 miles East to the parking area. It is a little over a 1-hour drive from the Pine Springs Visitor Center to the Salt Basin Dunes. Parking is limited, and carpooling is strongly encouraged. Please note that the surface of Williams Road is clay road that may become slippery and dangerous when wet. Please check the park website and social media channels the day of the program for any weather-related changes that may occur.

Visitors without a park pass can pay park fees at www.recreation.gov For more information about the Salt Basin Dunes, visit https://www.nps.gov/gumo/planyourvisit/dunes.htm