The gypsum dunefields of New Mexico’s White Sands National Park are truly one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Rising from the heart of the Tularosa Basin, the glistening white sands have engulfed 275 square miles of desert to create an otherworldly environment that has been constantly shifting and settling for millennia.
The ever changing topography is incredible to explore but can also pose significant navigational challenges:
“Becoming lost is easy when footprints fade as quickly as they are created. Not to mention that sand dunes all begin to look the same when you are in the middle of them.” -White Sands National Park
Unfortunately in the past people have died hiking in White Sands National Park and the park recently issued a PSA for hikers to pay close attention to trail specific markers. They advise if you are standing at one marker and cannot see the next to turn around and return the way you came.
If you become disoriented and lost, do not attempt to hike out. Rather call 911 and let the authorities know where you started (never hike White Sands without a working cellphone).
“Welcome to White Sands National Park, a place of wonder, inspiration, and beauty. Your tomorrow depends on the decisions that you make today.”
White Sands National Park PSA:
Don’t get lost out there…
Trails here at White Sands National Park are not as well-established due to the nature of the sand and its relationship with the wind. Becoming lost is easy when footprints fade as quickly as they are created. Not to mention that sand dunes all begin to look the same when you are in the middle of them.
When hiking, follow trail-specific markers. If you are standing at one marker, and cannot see the next one, turn around and return the way you came. If you do become lost in the dunes and cannot locate any trail markers, stay put and call 911. Trying to traverse the dunes in an effort to find your way back can result in you becoming more lost and make it difficult for rescuers to determine your location. Tell 911 what trailhead you left from, how long you have been on the trail, and the approximate distance you have traveled.
Stay put, stay alive.
-White Sands National Park
In addition to the directive to “Stay Put, Stay Alive” White Sands has several more precautionary measures hikers should take when exploring the park. Read on below.
People have died in White Sands National Park from heat related illnesses, dehydration, and getting lost. Are you prepared to prevent heat illness? Nobody wants to look back on their vacation and remember the time they had to spend in the emergency room because they weren’t prepared for their trip. Follow these suggestions to ensure your trip to White Sands is filled with memories of sliding down dunes, taking in the sunset, and attending ranger guided tours.
-Bring one gallon of water per person per day.
-Bring all the high-energy salty snacks you will need for the day. An important part of staying hydrated is replenishing electrolytes.
-Never hike alone. If you do, make sure a friend or family member knows where you are going and when they can expect to hear from you.
-Always follow the trail markers when hiking. If you are at one trail marker and cannot see the next, turn around and return the way you came.
-Wear sun protection. Hat, sunglasses, long loose clothing, and sunblock are all necessities at the park. The sand reflects 80% of sunlight, making a sunburn much easier to get than in other locations. This also raises the ambient temperature by 15 degrees Fahrenheit or more.
-Choose to hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon. The sun is at its peak between 10am and 4pm. This is the hottest time of day, and your risk of developing heat illness will be high.
-If you are experiencing any kind of emergency, dial 911.
Your safety is your responsibility. Come prepared for all the activities you plan to participate in.
