Last updated: July 24, 2026
Thing to Do
Hiking Alkali Flat Trail
NPS
Surround yourself with a rolling white landscape that stretches endlessly in every direction. Embrace the solitude offered by this trail as it travels up and down the dunes and away from the road. Find yourself along the outer edge of Alakli Flat, the salty expanse where an ancient lake once flourished.
- This is a strenuous five mile (8 km) out-and-back hike. You will hike 2.5 (4 km) miles to Alkali Flat and return the same way. This hike consistently has you climbing 60 ft (18.3 m) dunes.
- This trail takes an average of four hours to complete.
- Follow the red diamond trail markers to complete the trail. If you are unable to see the next marker, turn around and go back to the trailhead.
-
Although the name of the trail is "Alkali Flat," please note that this trail is not flat!
Ranger Recommendations
- Bring plenty of water for your family and pets
- This trail has very little shade. Use adequate sun protection.
- 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 can reduce visibility to a few feet, making it easy to become lost.
- Stay on the trail to avoid damaging delicate biocrust
- Visit our Hiking Safety page for more recommendations about hiking in the unique conditions of White Sands National Park
Details
Duration
3-5 Hours
Activity
Front-Country Hiking
Age(s)
Not recommended for small children
Pets Allowed
Yes
- Pets are allowed on a leash of maximum 6 feet length.
- Please remember to clean up after your pet.
- Pets need plenty of water!
- Learn more about bringing your pet to White Sands National Park
Activity Fee
No
Standard park entrance fees apply.
Location
Dunes Drive
Trailhead parking lot is at the end of the loop portion of Dunes Drive, 7.4 miles (12 km) from the visitor center.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
During the hot summer months, consider hiking early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day.
Check the Operating Hours page for information about the park's current closing time.
Check the Operating Hours page for information about the park's current closing time.
Accessibility Information
This trail is not ADA accessible. This hike includes walking up and down sand dunes of up to sixty feet in loose gypsum sand.
The park's only accessible trail is the Interdune Boardwalk.
The park's only accessible trail is the Interdune Boardwalk.