Finally travelled to White Sands N.P. south of Alamogordo NM in May '26. I got down very low to make the yucca look big. I was shooting slightly uphill which helped frame this shot.
Getting low to the ground makes the shot at White Sands!
Clouds with character at White Sands early evening.
The Great Sand Dunes N.P., about a half hour outside of Alamosa, CO. Late afternoon brings out the shadows & contours of the dunes. This sand gets very hot in the summer, unlike the white gypsum/sand of White Sands.
Medano Creek runs through the dunes each year in late spring. A geological wonder! It provides tons of fun for kids since the water only reaches a foot deep.
Fun patterns abound.
Late afternoon shadows.
The Dunes seemingly go on forever. If you hike up to Star Dune or High Dune, two of the tallest dunes, you will see how far "back" they reach. To get to those dunes, it's a strenuous hike on shifting sand. Bring water & sunscreen!
Hiked to the top! Not easy, but a colorful sunset rewarded me. Pro tip: carry a flashlight for the hike down to the parking lot.