White Sands Backcountry
White Sands Backcountry is an easy 50+ miles off-road trail near Alamogordo, NM, best run October - April. The gear list marks All-terrain tires as required, and 4WD recommended and Recovery boards as recommended. A stock high-clearance 4x4 can run it; check the gear list before you go.
Trail Conditions
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White Sands Backcountry explores the Tularosa Basin surrounding White Sands National Park, one of Earth's most otherworldly landscapes. While the park itself restricts off-road access, the surrounding BLM and military lands offer backcountry roads through a landscape of white gypsum flats, desert scrub, and views of the Sacramento Mountains rising to the east.
Fun Facts
White Sands contains the world's largest gypsum dune field, covering 275 square miles.
The gypsum sand stays cool even in summer because it doesn't absorb solar heat like silica sand.
White Sands Missile Range adjacent is where the first atomic bomb was detonated in 1945 (Trinity Site).
Some animals in the park have evolved white coloring to camouflage against the gypsum.
🛞 Tires
🔧 Suspension
⚙️ Drivetrain
🪢 Recovery
Closest campgrounds to White Sands Backcountry:
- Backcountry Camping · Alamogordo · 6 mi (straight-line)
- Slide Group Campground · 27 mi (straight-line)
- Deerhead Campground · 27 mi (straight-line)
- Golden Aspen Campground · Cloudcroft · 28 mi (straight-line)
- Pines Campground · 28 mi (straight-line)
- Silver Campground · 29 mi (straight-line)
Straight-line distance. Check the map for drive time.
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Alamogordo, NM
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
Stock rigs can usually run this trail, but the right tire size and fitment make it more enjoyable.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Verify your stock tires meet minimum clearance for this trail.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Ensure any wheel upgrade clears your factory suspension.