White Sands Backcountry
Nine primitive camps on the world's largest gypsum dune field — moonlike night skies and 40 mph gusts.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to White Sands Backcountry, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
- Region
- New Mexico, USA
- Country
- United States
- Biome
- Gypsum dune desert (1,200 m)
- Best season
- October – April
- Difficulty
- moderate
Known for
- Backpacking
- Hiking
- Desert Hiking
- Canyoneering
Key takeaways
- Biome: Gypsum dune desert (1,200 m)
- Best season: October – April
- Difficulty: moderate
- Top activity: backpacking
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Topic summary
Nine primitive camps on the world's largest gypsum dune field — moonlike night skies and 40 mph gusts.
Key takeaways
- Difficulty: moderate
- Best season: October – April
Intended uses
backpacking
Climate suitability
Gypsum dune desert (1,200 m)
Verification notes
Last verified January 1, 1970.
Region
United States
Biome
Gypsum dune desert (1,200 m)
Difficulty
moderate
Plan with verified data
White Sands Backcountry trip tools
Popular pursuits at White Sands Backcountry
- Backpacking
Multi-day travel with everything on your back — see the packing blocks below.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
- Desert Hiking
Water carries and heat management drive the plan.
- Canyoneering
Narrows, downclimbs, and flash-flood timing.
