The Great Salt Lake

The Great Salt Lake is a large lake in the state of Utah. It is the biggest salt lake in the Western Hemisphere. The water in the lake is many times saltier than the ocean. This makes it very easy to float on top of the water.

Why So Salty?

Rivers flow into the Great Salt Lake, but no rivers flow out. The only way water leaves is by evaporating into the air. When water evaporates, it leaves its salt behind. Over thousands of years, more and more salt has built up in the lake. Today the water is so salty that almost no fish can live in it.

Animals and People

Even though fish can't live in the lake, some animals love it. Millions of tiny brine shrimp swim in the water. Birds like pelicans and seagulls come to eat the shrimp. People visit the lake to float on the water and see the wildlife. Salt Lake City, the biggest city in Utah, is named after the lake.

Fun Facts

• The Great Salt Lake is about three to five times saltier than the ocean.
• The lake is what's left of a much bigger ancient lake called Lake Bonneville.
• Tiny brine shrimp in the lake are also called 'sea monkeys' when sold as pets.

Did You Know?

It is almost impossible to sink in the Great Salt Lake. The salty water pushes you up so you float easily on the surface.