Last Updated on August 24, 2023
The West Mesa Sand Dunes are a relatively unknown hidden gem located just west of Albuquerque, New Mexico.
They are much smaller than the more popular White Sands National Park, but easily accessible and located just a short distance from Route 66 on Albuquerque’s west side.
The West Mesa Sand Dunes are a relatively small dune field, covering about 2 square miles. The tallest dunes are about 100 feet high, but most are much lower. The sand is a fine, bright yellow sand that is very soft and easy to walk on.
The dunes are located on the western edge of the West Mesa, a high plateau that forms the western boundary of Albuquerque. The sand in the dunes is thought to have come from the Rio Puerco valley, which lies to the west. The wind has carried the sand across the valley and deposited it on the edge of the mesa.
Getting there
The sand dunes are accessible by car, but you will need to have a 4×4 with about a foot of clearance. The sand is loose and deep, so it is important to air down your tires before driving on the dunes. You should also bring a compressor so that you can air up your tires when you are ready to leave.
There are a few different paths that you can take to get to the dunes. One popular path is to take Southern Avenue to 60th Street. Turn right onto 60th Street and then go straight until you see the dunes. Another path is to take Central Avenue to the Metropolitan Detention Center. Turn left at the sign for the MDC and then continue past the jail. You will see the dunes on your right.
- Take Central Avenue west from Albuquerque.
- Make a left at the sign for the Metropolitan Detention Center.
- Continue past the jail and take the gravel road parallel to the center.
- Make a right at the next dirt road and drive alongside the fence of the center.
- You will soon see the sand dunes.
Once you are at the dunes, you can explore them on foot or by 4×4. There are no facilities in the area, so be sure to bring water and other supplies with you.
Visiting the West Mesa Sand Dunes
Visit during the week to avoid the crowds. This site is so little known that you are likely to have it all to yourself if you visit during the week.
Be aware of the wildlife in the area, including rattlesnakes. Take precautions to avoid snakes, such as wearing closed-toe shoes and high gaiters to protect your ankles.
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen. The desert sun can be very hot, so it is important to stay hydrated and protected from the sun. There are no facilities whatsoever so you need to make sure you pack everything you may need with you before you leave.
Wear comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting sandy. The sand can be very soft and slippery, so it is important to wear shoes that will give you good traction. The sun can also make sand really hot so closed-toe shoes are ideal to protect your feet.
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