A desert of snow in the middle of summer: the unusual landscape of the United States that seems from another planet
It dazzles with its gypsum dunes that remain cool in the midst of the extreme heat of the southwest.
Leer en español: Un desierto de nieve en pleno verano: el insólito paisaje de Estados Unidos que parece de otro planeta
White Sands National Park is a geological wonder located in the state of New Mexico, where nature is displayed in an almost unrecognizable form. This park is home to extensive dunes of immaculate white, composed almost entirely of gypsum, a mineral that is rarely found in the form of sand.
Gypsum, unlike the minerals that make up common sand, has reflective properties that prevent heat accumulation. This causes that, despite the scorching summer climate of the southwestern United States, the surface of the dunes remains cool to the touch. This phenomenon creates a surprising scenario: a desert that, in appearance, resembles a lunar landscape or a snow field in the middle of the summer season.
The uniqueness of White Sands has captured the attention of scientists and geologists, who study the formation process of these undulations. The special environmental conditions of the area have allowed the accumulation of gypsum, generating an extremely rare natural phenomenon. The undulations stretch for kilometers, and each crest and valley tells a story about the evolution of the terrain.
For adventure lovers, the park offers multiple exploration opportunities. The trails that wind through the dunes allow visitors to venture into this almost otherworldly landscape. Walking on the white surface, under a clear sky, evokes feelings of freedom and wonder, while the contrast between the apparent cold of the sand and the warmth of the air creates a unique experience.
The atmosphere in the park also invites reflection and the enjoyment of photography, as light and shadows play in perfect harmony on the undulating surfaces. During sunrise and sunset, the landscape acquires spectacular hues, transforming into a natural spectacle that attracts visitors from all over the world.
In addition, the park has designated areas for recreational activities and for observing the fauna that has learned to adapt to this particular environment. The combination of science, beauty, and adventure makes White Sands a fascinating destination, where nature unfolds its creativity in every grain of gypsum. This place, which defies the conventions of a traditional desert, continues to be a site of study and admiration.
