White Sands National Park

Spanning nearly 300 square miles, the dreamlike White Sands National Park hypnotizes visitors with vast dunes, boundless fields, and deep valleys of white, crystalline sand. A geographical oddity remnant of New Mexico’s prehistoric and extinct lakes, this destination is a must-see. In fact, White Sands is so bizarre and otherworldly that it has become a favorite of photographers, filmmakers, and musicians. You may be inspired to embrace your inner artist during your visit.

Be sure to show up with ample water, nutrition, and shade tents, because this park’s spartan campsites and five-mile Alkali Flat walking trail seem virtually absent of human civilization—spare the sunbathers, hikers, and artists drawn to this desert as if to visit another planet.