Petersen & Clark Expedition

White Sands National Monument

October 12, 2008– We had so much fun today!

We took a short ride over to the White Sands National Monument.  White Sands is where they do missile testing — this is still going on today, they actually close the highway/park a couple times a week to conduct tests — so I was expecting to learn about missiles and possibly even the first atomic bomb that was set off.  

Carl climbing up a sand dune

I had missed the point that half of the White Sands area is designated as a national park, and as such, is set up for people to enjoy the sand dunes. Kids were sliding down the dunes on plastic saucers (I can’t believe I didn’t get any pictures of this!) — just like it was snow. They have four walking trails, which we explored one of them.  One trail is a boardwalk that is wheelchair accessible.

Clouds moving above the sand casting shadows.

There is a prevailing southwesterly wind which moves the dunes 30 feet per year, and thus they have special picnic areas with guards to keep the sand out of the food and the grill burning. There are no campsites, but they do give permits for overnight stays for hikers.  

Parking lot - notice that they used plows to keep the roads clean!

This was so great, I feel like I spent the day at the beach, which goes to show that perfect sand goes along way to defining the perfect beach day. I would definitely recommend this as a place to visit.

Like a day at the beach!

As we entered the White Sands valley, we had to stop for the Border Patrol.  This is the fourth time we have had to pass through Border Patrol, but the first time anyone actually talked to us and looked inside the car.  In other words, we felt like finally the Border Patrol was doing their job.  I’m not saying that I think the whole Border Patrol thing is the best way to spend our money BUT if we are going to spend the money, then please, look alert and like the job is actually being done.

Nature Trail at White Sands

Bush hanging onto life, despite the shifting sands

Also of note, Carl and I left Nashua one month ago today! I have taken 1,730 pictures to date.