3 day itinerary for White Sand National Pary

Itinerary

A road trip from Tucson to White Sands National Park sounds like an amazing adventure for the whole family! Let’s make the most of your three days with a fun and family-friendly itinerary. Buckle up, and let’s hit the road!

## Day 1: Tucson to White Sands National Park

Morning:

• Departure from Tucson: Start your day early, around 8 AM, to make the most of your time. Pack some snacks and drinks for the road!
• Drive to White Sands: The drive is about 4 hours (around 250 miles), so enjoy the scenic views along the way. You might want to stop in Las Cruces, NM for a quick break and some breakfast. Check out The Bean for delicious coffee and breakfast burritos!

Afternoon:

• Arrive at White Sands National Park: Aim to arrive around noon. Head straight to the Visitor Center to get maps, learn about the park, and pick up any souvenirs.
• Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the designated picnic areas. Bring along sandwiches, fruits, and some treats!

Late Afternoon:

• Explore the Dunes: After lunch, it’s time to hit the dunes! The Dune Life Nature Trail is a great family-friendly hike (1.5 miles round trip) that’s easy for kids and offers stunning views of the gypsum dunes.
• Sledding Fun: Don’t forget to bring or rent a sled! The kids will love sliding down the dunes. It’s a blast for all ages!

Evening:

• Sunset at the Dunes: Stay for the sunset; the colors reflecting off the white sands are breathtaking! It’s a perfect photo op.
• Dinner: Head to Alamogordo for dinner. The 19th Hole is a family-friendly spot with a great menu.
• Overnight: Book a hotel in Alamogordo for a comfortable night’s rest.

## Day 2: Exploring White Sands

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
• Morning Hike: Head back to the park for a morning hike on the Interdune Boardwalk. It’s an easy walk and great for spotting wildlife.

Afternoon:

• Sand Dune Exploration: Spend the afternoon exploring more of the park. Consider the Alkali Flat Trail (5 miles round trip) if your family is up for a bit more adventure. It’s a bit longer but offers unique views.
• Lunch: Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic spots in the park.

Late Afternoon:

• Visitor Center Activities: Return to the Visitor Center for any ranger-led programs or activities. They often have family-friendly educational programs that are both fun and informative!

Evening:

• Stargazing: If the skies are clear, stick around for some stargazing! White Sands is a great place to see the stars without light pollution.
• Dinner: Head back to Alamogordo for dinner. Try Cattleman’s Steakhouse for a hearty meal.
• Overnight: Stay another night in Alamogordo.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local diner.
• Visit the New Mexico Museum of Space History: This is a fun and educational stop for the whole family, just a short drive from Alamogordo. Kids will love the interactive exhibits!

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Grab lunch in Alamogordo before heading out.
• Visit the White Sands Missile Range Museum: This museum is fascinating and offers insights into the history of the area. It’s a great way to learn more about the region.

Late Afternoon:

• Drive Back to Tucson: Start your journey back to Tucson. You can take a different route if you’d like to see new sights. Consider stopping at Chiricahua National Monument if time allows for a quick hike.

Evening:

• Dinner on the Road: Stop for dinner along the way, perhaps in Willcox for some classic diner food.
• Arrive in Tucson: You should be back in Tucson by evening, filled with wonderful memories and stories to share!

And there you have it! A fun-filled, family-friendly itinerary for your three days at White Sands National Park. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Safe travels! 🌞🏜️