Text by Alex
Deserts are usually associated with golden or muddy yellow hues, but there are also white deserts. As natural light shifts, the rolling white sand dunes resemble a canvas, reflecting diverse contrasts of light and shadow—especially at sunset when the delicate colors on the dunes compete beautifully with the colorful sky, often captivating photographers who can’t bear to leave.
▲ (photo by aaronfortin @IG)
Located in southern New Mexico, USA, White Sands National Park (formerly known as White Sands National Monument) spans approximately 275 square miles and is the world’s largest gypsum dune field. As the name suggests, its geological composition isn’t sand (which is primarily silicon) but calcium sulfate, commonly known as gypsum—hence its white appearance.
▲ (photo by xavierhphotographe @IG)
▲ (photo by aaron_martinez_photography @IG)
The area where the park is situated was once a shallow inland sea, with large amounts of calcium sulfate deposited on the seabed. Over millions of years of tectonic movements and climatic changes, it eventually formed the desert seen today. In fact, under the influence of wind, the dune landscape is constantly shifting. Photographers seeking off-the-beaten-path perspectives should pay close attention to the color markers along the trails to avoid getting lost.
▲ (photo by jonhuynh1 @IG)
▲ (photo by jeff_maltzman_photo @IG)
One final tip: there is an air force base near White Sands National Park. If missile tests are underway, the park may temporarily close. Additionally, due to its proximity to the Mexican border, there are checkpoints before reaching the park. Visitors should carry identification documents and allow extra time for security checks.
▲ (photo by xavierhphotographe @IG)
▲ (photo by jeff_maltzman_photo @IG)
▲ (photo by markleibowitzpictures @IG)
▲ (photo by aaron_martinez_photography @IG)
▲ (photo by belovedglobe @IG)
▲ (photo by gabbyhall @IG)
▲ (photo by rodtrvn @IG)
▲ (photo by jasolber @IG)
Source: White Sands National Park