Sandboarding & Sledding Adventures at White Sands Trading Company

Located in the high desert city of Alamogordo, New Mexico, White Sands Trading Company offers more than just souvenirs—they provide the gateway to adrenaline-fueled sand sledding and sandboarding adventures on the vast gypsum dunes of White Sands National Park. This otherworldly landscape, with its bright white sands formed from gypsum crystals, is one of the world’s most unique desert environments and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a different kind of thrill.

At White Sands Trading Company, visitors can rent everything needed to ride down the dunes, including sand sleds and sandboards. The rental process is straightforward, and the staff is known for helpful advice, especially recommending waxing sleds to maximize speed and smoothness on the dunes. Whether you’re a novice or experienced rider, the company provides durable wooden sleds and sandboards designed to handle the park’s fine, powdery sand.

White Sands National Park, established in 1933, covers 275 square miles of the Tularosa Basin and features the world’s largest gypsum dunefield. Its expansive, rolling dunes invite visitors to climb, slide, and absorb the stark beauty of the setting sun reflecting off the white sands. It’s a rare experience where families, solo travelers, and even dogs find joy in the sand’s cool texture and effortless sledding. The site is dog-friendly, allowing furry companions to join the fun.

White Sands Trading Company sits conveniently behind the visitor center, paired with a gift shop where travelers can pick up practical gear and mementos. While peak hours can get busy, the rental service remains a cornerstone for enjoying the dunes. The option to rent boards or sleds for a few hours helps visitors savor the desert during cooler times like sunset, although returns must be made by store closing.

In short, White Sands Trading Company is an essential outfitter for anyone wanting to transform a hike or visit to White Sands National Park into a memorable, hands-on adventure. The stunning, gypsum dunes elevate simple sledding and sandboarding into a unique desert sport that’s tough to find anywhere else in the U.S.