Place

Take a Deep Breath

A pale green bush grows on white sand with vegetation dotted dunes in the background.
Rosemary mint is abundant in the park, see if you spot it anywhere else on your journey!

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Audio Description, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

While you’re in the park today, you may notice rock-like mounds dotting the dunes. These are pedestals! Rosemary mint is one of the main plants that creates pedestals. Plants create them by pulling water to their roots and holding it tight. As the dunes move, the pedestals are uncovered and hardened by the sun. Once uncovered, the pedestals begin their second life as homes for the animals that live in the dunefield.

White Sands National Park

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Last updated: September 18, 2021