Park Ranger Guided Full Moon Hikes Return to White Sands National Monument

Government-run parks are no longer in Covid-mode and that means the monthly Full Moon Hike series is resuming at White Sands National Monument.

From April through October, you can hike the park after dark with only the moon to light your path and a park ranger to guide your way. It’s not only fun and educational, but you get to experience the Dune Life Nature Trail in a whole different way.

What to Know If You Plan to Go

Full Moon Hike is a group tour and capacity is limited. Unlike the Full Moon Nights series, which doesn't require an additional fee, advanced reservations and tickets are required to go on the park ranger-led full moon hikes.

The walk is nearly two-hours long and is considered moderate to difficult depending on how fit you are as it's not a typical hiking trail; on this one you'll walk on sand and trudge up and down sand dunes.

Cost

Tickets are on sale two months in advance per specific date a hike is being held, and can only be purchased online at Recreation.gov or over the phone at 1-877-444-6777.

Cost is $8 per person ages 16 and older and $4 ages 15 and under. Park entrance fees also apply, but you pay for that when you get the White Sands.

2022 Full Moon Hike schedule

• Saturday, April 16, 7:30 p.m.
• Sunday, May 15, 8 p.m.
• Monday, June 13, 8:15 p.m.
• Tuesday, July 12, 8:15 p.m.
• Thursday, August 11, 8 p.m.
• Friday, September 9, 7:30 p.m.
• Sunday, October 9, 6:45 p.m.

Go on a Sunset Stroll Too

Get there an hour or two earlier and go sledding down a dune, take a few selfies, photograph the birds and plants that call the park home, and sit and watch one of the more glorious sunsets you’ll ever see.

Or go on the Sunset Stroll led by one of the rangers.

The 45-to-60-minute leisurely walk is a free, daily mile-long moderate hike timed to end on top of a dune at sunset.