White Sands National Park
4.8FreePermanently closedWhite Sands National Park is in New Mexico, not Grand Canyon.
White Sands National Park does not exist within Grand Canyon National Park or anywhere in Arizona. The famous gypsum sand dunes of White Sands National Park are located in southern New Mexico. Travelers visiting the Grand Canyon will encounter vast red rock gorges rather than gypsum dune fields.
Expert notes
- Arrive early in the day to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Wear light-colored clothing to reflect the sun's rays.
- Take advantage of the visitor center for maps and information.
- Follow marked trails to protect the delicate environment.
- Stay on designated paths to preserve the dunes.
- Use sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays.
- Bring a sled to enjoy sliding down the dunes.
- Plan your visit around the sunset for spectacular views.
- Observe wildlife quietly to avoid disturbing them.
- Carry enough water for your visit to stay hydrated.
Features
- Dune Sledding
- Educational Exhibits
- Hiking Trails
- Park Store
- Picnic Areas
- Restrooms
- Visitor Center
- Wildlife Viewing Areas
More things to do in Grand Canyon
Little Colorado River GorgeFreeMarvel at dramatic sheer canyon walls and local Navajo artisan crafts.
Monument ValleyFreeDiscover iconic red sandstone buttes across breathtaking desert landscapes.
Petrified Forest National Park$$Discover ancient fossilized logs and colorful badlands in northeastern Arizona
Glen Canyon DamFreeTowering concrete arch dam holding back Lake Powell near Page, Arizona
Desert View Visitor CenterFreeDiscover sweeping canyon vistas and rich Indigenous heritage at Desert View
Tusayan RuinFreeExplore a historic Ancestral Puebloan village along Grand Canyon South Rim.