Band Lands is to South Dakota, White Sands is to New Mexico. If you happen to be in New Mexico, never miss to visit the White Sands National Monument. There is nothing like seeing the vast glistening white sands in all its natural wonders. The dunes of gypsum sand covered an area of 275 square miles, making it the world’s largest gypsum dunefield.

Need more convincing?

Striking landscapes.

Sledding all day.

Great place to get away to relax.

No beach, no sea, just sand.

It is the perfect canvass for any photo session.

You won’t need shoes.

It looks like a Star-Wars scene.

The gift shop and the museum in one building.

Make the detour and visit the White Sands National Monument.

Someone told me that I should have gone in time for sunset and watched the sand glow under the moon. Next time, I will.

Admission fees.

$5 per person (good for 7 days with receipt). Children 15 and under are free.

Entrance fees are collected at the entrance station on the Dunes Drive. Holders of the Interagency Annual Pass, Interagency Senior Pass, Interagency Access Pass, Interagency Volunteer Pass and White Sands Annual Pass will be admitted free along with three other persons (16 and older) in a private non-commercial vehicle.

Hours.

With the exception of Christmas Day, December 25, the monument is open daily year-round. However, hours of operation vary throughout the year. Visit the official website for details.

Also: See all my travel adventures here.

See more of my New Mexico travels.

See the White Sands National Monument in 360 degrees below: