Buzz
Ranked as the 6th largest saltwater lake, the Great Salt Lake in northern Utah undergoes a dynamic transformation with changing water levels.
The Great Salt Lake: USA's Dead Sea
The Great Salt Lake stands as the largest inland saltwater body in the Western Hemisphere and one of the saltiest worldwide. It is fed by the Bear, Weber, and Jordan rivers with no outlet.
The lake's area fluctuates significantly based on evaporation rates and the flow of the contributing rivers. At its highest, the lake's surface can reach up to 6,200 km² (in 1873), narrowing to 2,460 km² (in 1963). The average water depth is about 4.5m, with the deepest part reaching 11m.
Similar to the Dead Sea, the Great Salt Lake thrives in a dry environment with chemical characteristics akin to the sea. However, the lake boasts higher salinity due to its naturally high evaporation rate compared to river inflow.
Nestled amidst expansive sand dunes, salt flats, and marshes, the lake is secluded from residential areas. Recently, it's not just considered a mineral resource but also seen as a beach, a hub for underwater sports, and a wilderness conservation area.
The Great Salt Lake comprises 11 small islands, with the largest being Antelope and Fremont islands. All lie to the south of the Lucin railroad that cuts across the lake. This railway also restricts water circulation, causing one half to have a different salt content and color than the other half.
The high salt content makes the lake inhospitable for most life forms, with only a few species surviving, such as brine shrimp. However, the islands and marshes attract numerous bird species, and Antelope Island serves as a refuge for bison.
According to Monster
***
Reference: Travel guide Mytour
MytourJanuary 31, 2022
