Gypsum Dreams

When one first approaches the entrance to this small national park in New Mexico, USA, it initially feels unassuming. Meandering up Dunes Drive, one begins to see flora-speckled dunes and it feels as though the vast ocean could be just on the other side.

Then, the pavement ends, and….
magic.

Now, on a road made of snow-like gypsum, one is surrounded by tall, white dunes that feel other-worldly. They silently beckon for one to explore more.

As if in a trance, the car is parked and the exploration into the dunes begins. There are desert plants of all kinds that, surprisingly, make this place their home: Rabbitbrush, Yucca, Cottonwood trees, and more.

As the wander among the dunes continues, the tallest dune exerts its magnetic force and almost instantly one is at the top overlooking, not a sea of waves and water, but a vast ocean of undulating, hypnotic dunes. The power of this place is unlike anything one has ever experienced. And, as the sun moves, the shadows of the dunes mysteriously change shape and color.

Eventually, the sun disappears behind the mountains but not before a magical show of color and light. Returning home, one will never be the same. Forevermore, there will be gypsum dreams.

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