The Picturesque Trail In New Mexico That's Perfect For An Easy Sunset Hike
By Monica Spencer|Published March 29, 2018
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
Spring is officially here (according to the calendar, that is)! If you’re hoping to get out and enjoy nature waking up around the state, then we always suggest heading out for a hike through the beautiful landscapes you can find in New Mexico. If a sunset hike sounds like just the adventure you’re hoping to have, keep reading! We know of one spectacular sunset hike that you’ll absolutely love!
Isn't that a beautiful sight? White Sands National Monument is perhaps better known for its striking white landscape that glitters under the harsh sun but watching the sunset from here will feel like you're standing on another planet. The landscape glows and, as the sun dips lower on the horizon, everything appears softer.
But before we get into the hike, let's take a closer look at the national monument in case you've never visited. White Sands covers 275 square miles of sand dunes that are actually gypsum crystals, the largest of its kind on the planet. It was designated a national monument in 1933 by President Herbert Hoover.
Onto the hike! For a fantastic sunset hiking experience, you'll want to check out the Sunset Stroll. This ranger-led hike takes you on an easy, one-mile trek through White Sands. Expect to spend about one hour on this hike!
Aside from entrance fees, the hike itself is free and does not require a reservation. Simply meet at the marked parking area 5 miles from the entrance station about one hour before sunset (the location and a list of times can be found at the National Park Service website) and get ready for a fairly easy hike that will take you into the dunes.
The ranger will provide some insightful information about the area, its geology, and the plants and wildlife that call the area home. You'll also get a chance to see for yourself how the colorful sunset affects the white dunes. (Hint: it's amazing!)
White Sands National Monument is located 15 miles from Alamogordo via US-70. You can find details about hiking Sunset Stroll by visiting the National Park Service website.
