Alamogordo, New Mexico
We have lived in Albuquerque, NM for nearly 12 years. If you asked me in January of this year, “so, where have you been in this lovely land of enchantment?”, my answer would be a slightly embarrassed, “eeehm, no where.” It took us 12 years, 4 kids, and 2 dogs later to finally visit our state! And our first stop. . . White Sands National Monument, located in Alamogordo, NM.
Now, we went in February. And we were blessed with some pretty spectacular weather – not too hot, great cloud cover, and we had just missed a rain storm, so the sand was nice and smooth. If you’re looking for a late winter trip in New Mexico, this is the place to go! You are literally sledding in the white sand, and it’s fantastic! You don’t have to be layered in bulky snow suites, your toes aren’t frozen, AND it’s easy to climb the hills. . . win, win and win.
Prepping for a sled race! White Sands, NM
Lemme tell ya, even the little’s can hold their own! The hills are easy enough for our 3 and 5 year olds to climb. Also they’re not so steep that they would be afraid to go down by themselves.
Jack and Claire, White Sands, NM
The sand is oh-so-soft on the feet! Plan to hang out here all day, pack a cooler or two, bring some chairs because the kids will be sledding constantly, and soak up the scenery. . .it is B-E-A-utiful.
White Sands, NM
See those little specks out in the distance above? People try to go as faaaar as they can to get a slope all to themselves, but it’s not worth the walk in my opinion. The sand and slopes are the same all over the park, so just find a nice spot, and cozy up for a day of fun!
What to bring:
- Good ol’ fashioned plastic sleds
- Maybe some fun sand castle toys for the little’s…this sand is so fun to play in!
- Lots of water! . . . and snacks!
- Dress in layers, make sure to wear pants so you don’t get sand up your shorts!
- Cash – park fee is $5 per person ages 16 and older.
The family w/sleds, White Sands, NM
Claire having fun in the sand! White Sands, NM
This is a must see destination when you’re in New Mexico! Call this number to check on closures and hours: (575) 479-6124 ext. 236
Oh! And right next door. . . Carlsbad Caverns! Why not make a weekend trip out of it??
We will be visiting again soon, per request of the kiddos 🙂 I hope you’ll make it there too! Don’t forget the sleds!
Joyfully,
Love this! I went when I was a kid, and I keep wanting to take the kids! Shucks, guess we’ll have to visit after we move!!
Hi Joy! Yes, you will have to come back and visit us all sometime soon!! Thanks for visiting my new blog, friend 🙂