Download your Alkali Trail guide here! (Includes a printable PDF guide, gpx files for your GPS device, and KLM files to view your trail in google earth or google maps!)
Overview:
Enter White Sands National Monument and drive the scenic loop about 8 miles to get to the Alkali Trail. The drive itself was one of the most fascinating drives I have ever made. It took me hours to get to the Alkali Trail as I was stopping constantly to explore and photograph right along the road. The white sand looks like snow and with the very blue sky is a sight you won’t want to miss.
The hike is even more amazing simply because you are right in the heart of the dunes. The trail is marked with cairns made from tall poles with orange tops – but don’t rely on them exclusively for directions – they get covered with sand as the dunes shift with each day. The first time I was on the trail I got lost, and sand dunes are not a good place to get turned around. Just a “quick” venture from your car can have a person disoriented pretty quickly as things look very different going in than they do looking back. It’s easy to mistake one dune for another as well! .. that said, be sure to download my GPX file into your garmin, Iphone, or smart phone and take it with you! You will see where you are at all times and then get off the beaten path to really explore!
The hike itself is fascinating, fun and challenging. The sand piled into my shoes, especially when I traveled down the dunes. But it’s fun to get knee deep in sand! I had to shake my shoes out every now and again to avoid the crowding that the sand does to the feet! …
With every step I turned 360 degrees and the scene looked different. This place is a landscape photography dream. The sunrise and sunset colors against this white playground of sand are amazing! Also, try multiple exposures here if you have that ability within your camera. It’s a perfect place to play with a lot of creative ideas.
Enjoy!
Points of Interest
Keep track of images from White Sands National Monument as they are added and updated!
please click the image to see the book! download your printable trail guide with GPX for your GPS device and KLM files to view in google earth!
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