4.11.2014

White Sands

Mountains rich in gypsum from  ancient seas surround the  Tularosa Basin. This basin has no outlet and the gypsum rich waters evaporate leaving behind the gypsum behind. The prevailing winds form 275 square miles (32.779264, -106.172344)  of glistening white gypsum dunes.




Sledding on the dunes is very popular. (video)

Sledding works because the gypsum is a soft mineral and is very rounded by wind erosion. The spherical grains flow like ball bearings.



Paul 

and Carol having fun.

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