Discover the Magic of White Sands under Moonlight
On nights when the moon is full, expect to see your shadow because the moonlight will reflect off the sand for quite a bright night. NPS Photo
Embark on an enchanting journey into the heart of White Sands National Park with ranger-guided Moonlight Hikes, a captivating experience that unveils the park's mesmerizing beauty after dark. Formerly known as Full Moon Hikes, this renamed Moonlight Hike offers a unique opportunity to bask in the tranquility of this elusive environment as the moonlight illuminates the dazzling white gypsum sand.
🗓️ 2025 Moonlight Hike Schedule:
Friday, March 14 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, April 12 at 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 11 at 7:15 pm
Tuesday, June 10 at 8:00 pm
Wednesday, July 9 at 7:30 pm
Friday, August 8 at 7:45 pm
Monday, September 8 at 7:30 pm
Tuesday, October 7 at 6:30 pm
Wednesday, November 5 at 4:45 pm
🎟️ Ticket Information:
Tickets are required for the Moonlight Hike program.
Purchase tickets through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Tour fees apply (charged by Recreation.gov).
Park entrance fees apply (charged at the park).
🕗 Ticket Availability:
Tickets are available one month before the day of the tour at 8:00 am Mountain Time (e.g. a tour on April 18, tickets will be on sale at 8:00 am MT on March 18).
Tickets are required for this program and must be purchased through Recreation.gov or by calling (1-877-444-6777). Tour fees apply and will be charged by recreation.gov. Park entrance fees also apply and will be charged at the park.
Due to a limited number of tickets available per tour, only six tickets may be purchased per reservation. There is no waitlist for sold-out tours; however, if tickets are canceled, they will be immediately available on Recreation.gov.
Cancellations must be made by calling or visiting Recreation.gov at least 24 hours in advance of program. Refunds will not be granted within 24 hours of the beginning of the program. Refunds cannot be processed by park staff.
Cost
In addition to the park entrance fees, a special program fee of $8 per person ages 16 and older and $4 per child ages 15 and younger also apply. Federal passes such as the America the Beautiful Annual, Senior, and Access passes apply only to the entrance fees and do not cover the special program fee. Park entrance fees and camping fees are non-refundable.
Program length
1.5 - 2 hours
⚠️ Important Notes:
Participant capacity is limited, and tickets sell out quickly.
No waitlist for sold-out tours.
🔗 For More Information: Plan your visit by visiting the White Sands National Park website: Moonlight Hike Information
Don't miss this chance to witness the ethereal beauty of White Sands National Park under the captivating glow of the moon during your Ruidoso vacation! Secure your tickets early and be part of an unforgettable nocturnal adventure.