Hiking Interdune Boardwalk

Blue whiptail lizard on the Interdune Boardwalk

NPS

The Interdune Boardwalk is an elevated boardwalk that leads you through the fragile interdune area to a scenic view of the dunefield and the Sacramento mountains. Ten interpretive panels along the boardwalk explain the amazing science of White Sands National Park, including tenacious wildlife, fascinating geology, and other special features of the world's largest gypsum dunefield. This short walk has much to discover!

• The Interdune Boardwalk is 0.4 miles (0.6 km) round trip.
• A large shade structure is located halfway down the boardwalk. 
• An accessible restroom is located in the parking area. 

Ranger Recommendations

• Bring plenty of water for your family and pets.
• Keep in mind that this trail is for observing plant and animal life. If you want to play in the sand, please drive farther down Dunes Drive where there are better dunes for sledding and picnic tables with shade.
• 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

15-30 Minutes

Activity

Front-Country Hiking

Age(s)

Great for all ages!

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

This is the park's only ADA accessible trail. Please make sure your pet is well-behaved and completely under your control. 

• 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

The parking area for the Interdune Boardwalk is on Dunes Drive, 4.5 miles (7.2 km) from the visitor center. 

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility Information

This trail is ADA accessible. The parking lot is well-compacted sand. A large shade structure is located halfway down the boardwalk. 

Sometimes wind blows sand onto small patches of the boardwalk, making travel accross the boardwalk more difficult. Please report sand on the boardwalk to a park employee.