{"id":4309,"date":"2023-10-27T13:20:47","date_gmt":"2023-10-27T19:20:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/?p=4309"},"modified":"2023-10-27T13:20:49","modified_gmt":"2023-10-27T19:20:49","slug":"can-you-swim-in-great-salt-lake","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/can-you-swim-in-great-salt-lake\/","title":{"rendered":"Can You Swim in the Great Salt Lake? Dangers and Science"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:66.706161137441%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:66.706161137441%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:66.706161137441%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p><strong>Yes, you can swim in the salt lake, but it is not recommended. The water is extremely salty, which can cause eye irritation and skin rashes. It also contains high levels of bacteria that can make you sick if swallowed or entered through a cut or wound.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Great Salt Lake is a large, landlocked lake in the western United States. The lake is salt water; its salinity ranges from 5% to 27%. The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the world. The lake is home to many legends, some of which are about its size and others about its saltiness. The Great <a href=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/is-salt-lake-disappearing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Salt Lake<\/a> is integral to Utah&rsquo;s landscape and history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Great Salt Lake Water Condition<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Great Salt Lake boasts a one-of-a-kind ecosystem. Its high salinity levels have given rise to a community of extremophiles, microorganisms that thrive in extreme conditions. These microorganisms, such as brine shrimp and alkali flies, serve as a crucial food source for the lake&rsquo;s unique bird population.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#10148; <strong>Factors Affecting Water Conditions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The lake&rsquo;s water conditions are primarily influenced by its hydrology, climate, and human activities. The interaction of these factors plays a significant role in shaping the lake&rsquo;s salinity and water levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#10148; <strong>Salinity Levels<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Great Salt Lake&rsquo;s water is incredibly salty, even saltier than seawater. This high salinity is a result of the lake&rsquo;s closed basin nature. Evaporation occurs at a higher rate than inflow, leading to the concentration of salts in the water. Understanding these salinity levels is vital for researchers studying the lake&rsquo;s ecosystem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#10148; <strong>Fluctuations in Water Levels<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The lake&rsquo;s water levels are not constant; they fluctuate due to changes in precipitation and water diversion for agricultural and industrial purposes. These fluctuations have both positive and negative effects on the lake&rsquo;s ecosystem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#10148; <strong>Impact on Wildlife<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Great Salt Lake serves as a vital migratory stopover for numerous bird species. The rich food source provided by the lake&rsquo;s brine shrimp and alkali flies makes it an essential habitat for birds on their long journeys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-1-4-screenshot-edited.jpg\" alt=\"Great Salt Lake\" class=\"wp-image-4316\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-1-4-screenshot-edited.jpg 844w, https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-1-4-screenshot-edited-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-1-4-screenshot-edited-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"563\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20844%20563'%3E%3Crect%20width='844'%20height='563'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Great Salt Lake\" class=\"wp-image-4316 eager-load\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-1-4-screenshot-edited.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-1-4-screenshot-edited.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-1-4-screenshot-edited.jpg 844w, https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-1-4-screenshot-edited-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-1-4-screenshot-edited-768x512.jpg 768w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">So, Can you swim in the Great Salt Lake?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Swimming in the Great Salt Lake is a distinctive and exhilarating experience. The lake&rsquo;s exceptional salinity levels, even higher than that of the ocean, result in a remarkable phenomenon where bathers effortlessly float on its surface. This buoyancy creates a sensation that sets the Great Salt Lake apart from nearly all other bodies of water. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As you gently recline on the lake&rsquo;s surface, it feels as though you&rsquo;re defying gravity, offering a sense of weightlessness that is both thrilling and serene. This unique sensation has made the Great Salt Lake a sought-after destination for those who seek a truly unforgettable swim. It&rsquo;s an opportunity to engage with nature in a way that few other places can offer, making it a must-visit location for anyone with a sense of adventure and a love for the extraordinary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Floating-in-Utahs-Great-Salt-Lake-4-57-screenshot-edited.jpg\" alt=\"a person swimming in the water at the beach\" class=\"wp-image-4314\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Floating-in-Utahs-Great-Salt-Lake-4-57-screenshot-edited.jpg 844w, https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Floating-in-Utahs-Great-Salt-Lake-4-57-screenshot-edited-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Floating-in-Utahs-Great-Salt-Lake-4-57-screenshot-edited-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Floating-in-Utahs-Great-Salt-Lake-4-57-screenshot-edited.jpg\" alt=\"a person swimming in the water at the beach\" class=\"wp-image-4314 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Floating-in-Utahs-Great-Salt-Lake-4-57-screenshot-edited.jpg 844w, https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Floating-in-Utahs-Great-Salt-Lake-4-57-screenshot-edited-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Floating-in-Utahs-Great-Salt-Lake-4-57-screenshot-edited-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Floating-in-Utahs-Great-Salt-Lake-4-57-screenshot-edited.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tips to Stay Safe while Swimming in the Great Salt Lake<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1: Check the water conditions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Before swimming in the Great Salt Lake, it is essential to check the water conditions. The water can be shallow and dangerous for swimming if the conditions are not right. The salt content in the water can also be harmful if swallowed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2: Know your swimming abilities.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Great Salt Lake is much easier to swim in than the ocean because of its high salinity. You can swim from any accessible point, but it&rsquo;s not done much because of the high salt content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Swimming in the Great Salt Lake is a great experience that should be on your bucket list. If you are not a strong swimmer, it is advisable to consult with an expert before attempting to swim in the Great Salt Lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3: Wear proper clothing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Great Salt Lake is a beautiful but dangerous place to swim. The water is very cold and can cause hypothermia quickly. It is essential to wear a life jacket, wet suit, or other proper clothing while swimming in the Great Salt Lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The brine flies can be pretty annoying, so bring repellant and lotion. Walking to the shoreline can be a long walk, so only get what you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4: Use sunscreen<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You should always wear sunscreen when swimming in the Great Salt Lake, as no natural shade is available. Make sure to reapply sunscreen often, as the salt water will make your skin feel tight and itchy. An excellent waterproof sunscreen with a high SPF rating is your best bet for protecting yourself from the sun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 5: Drink plenty of water<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It is essential to stay hydrated when swimming. Bring a packed lunch and plenty of water, sunscreen, and bandages in case of cuts. Drive to the lake early to get a good spot. Keep plenty of water and snacks with you for when you go swimming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Swim in shallow water if possible to avoid getting too wet. Swimmers should be careful not to splash the salty water in their eyes and mouths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 6: Avoid swimming alone.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Swimming in the Great Salt Lake is dangerous because of the high salt level. Swimming in the Great Salt Lake is a thrill worth experiencing, but only if a group of people accompanies you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Swim in pairs or groups when swimming in the Great Salt Lake to avoid swimming alone and to reduce your chances of getting into danger. Swimming in the Great Salt Lake is dangerous and can lead to dehydration, hypothermia, and drowning. Avoid swimming in the Great Salt Lake alone because bugs hang around the shoreline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 7: Avoid swimming at night<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Great Salt Lake is a dangerous place to swim at night. The water&rsquo;s remote location and high salt content can be deadly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you must swim in the lake, do so during the day and only on the north side where it is less smelly. Be sure to bring your own shade and fresh clothes to avoid salt-induced skin problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 8: Heed warning signs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a few different types of warning signs around the Great Salt Lake. Here are their meanings:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Caution: <\/strong>This sign is to warn people that there is a potential hazard ahead. Be careful and take note of the hazard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger:<\/strong> This sign is to warn people that there is an imminent danger ahead. Be very careful and avoid the area if possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Do Not Enter:<\/strong> This sign is to warn people that they should not enter the area ahead. It is dangerous, and they could be hurt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is the Great Salt Lake so salty?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Great Salt Lake is salty because it is located in a desert. The Great Salt Lake evaporates a lot of water because there is not enough rain or rivers to bring in fresh water. The Great Salt Lake is also fed by the streams that flow from Utah Lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The area around the lake is very dry, so the salt has time to accumulate in the water. The saltiness of the Great Salt Lake is one of its defining features and contributes to its unique experience. While the lake can be uninviting due to the high salt concentration and bothersome insects, it is worth it to float or kayak on its waters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-0-0-screenshot-edited.jpg\" alt=\"a sandy beach next to a body of water\" class=\"wp-image-4312\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-0-0-screenshot-edited.jpg 844w, https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-0-0-screenshot-edited-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-0-0-screenshot-edited-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-0-0-screenshot-edited.jpg\" alt=\"a sandy beach next to a body of water\" class=\"wp-image-4312 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-0-0-screenshot-edited.jpg 844w, https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-0-0-screenshot-edited-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-0-0-screenshot-edited-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Truth-About-Swimming-in-Great-Salt-Lake-0-0-screenshot-edited.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1666985235293\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Where is the Great Salt Lake located?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The Great Salt Lake is located in the northern part of Utah. The lake has a high salt content, making it easy to float. The Great Salt Lake is one of Utah&rsquo;s most popular tourist destinations. The drive from Salt Lake City to the lake is about thirty minutes to two hours, depending on where you decide to visit.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1666985241464\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">What is the water like in the Great Salt Lake?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. It is located near Salt Lake City, Utah, and is a landlocked remnant of ancient Lake Bonneville. The Great Salt Lake is a natural recreation site and one of the most asked-about tourist attractions in Utah.<\/p>\n<p>The water in the Great Salt Lake is high in salt and dense, making it difficult for swimmers to swim. However, people can float easily because the water is freshwater and has a high salt content. The lake&rsquo;s smell and bugs are a hassle for some people.<\/p>\n<p>Swimmers can enjoy a swim if they get to the southern part of the lake. After swimming in the lake, people should rinse off in the showers to avoid getting sick.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1666985258188\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Is it safe to swim in the Great Salt Lake?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Swimming in the Great Salt Lake is safe, but there are some things swimmers should be aware of. The lake is very salty and dense, so it is essential to drink plenty of water and put on lotion before swimming.<\/p>\n<p>The shoreline can be a long walk from the parking area, so it is important to bring only what you will need. Swimmers should also be aware of the bugs, which can be a nuisance. The water at the southern part of the lake is less smelly and more vegetative because it flows in from that direction.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1666985272548\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">How do I prepare to swim in the Great Salt Lake?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Swimming in the Great Salt Lake is a safe and refreshing experience. However, there are a few things swimmers should keep in mind.<\/p>\n<p>First, the Great Salt Lake is very salty. This can make your skin feel tight and itchy. You may want to bring lotion and insect repellant to rinse off after swimming.<\/p>\n<p>Second, the lake is quite large. The walk to the shoreline can be lengthy, sometimes between &frac14; and &frac12; a mile. Swimmers should be aware of the high salt and density levels in the Great Salt Lake and the poisonous minerals.<\/p>\n<p>Third, the smell of the lake and bugs can be a nuisance. However, swimming in the Great Salt Lake is possible if you go to the southern part. Swimmers should bring bug spray and sunscreen if they swim in the Great Salt Lake.<\/p>\n<p>Finally, remember to bring water goggles, a swimsuit, and a towel when you go swimming in the Great Salt Lake!<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1666985290916\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">What should I do after swimming in the Great Salt Lake?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>After swimming in the Great Salt Lake, it is essential to rinse off in fresh water to remove any salt residue. It is also important to apply lotion, as the salt can make your skin feel tight and itchy. Finally, insect repellant may be necessary, as there are a lot of bugs in the area.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1666985306036\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Are there any benefits to swimming in the Great Salt Lake?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>There are a few benefits to swimming in the Great Salt Lake. The salinity of the water makes for a unique swimming experience. Additionally, you can enjoy the scenery and the peace and quiet of being in nature.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1666985314140\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Are there any drawbacks to swimming in the Great Salt Lake?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Swimming in the Great Salt Lake can be a great experience, but there are some drawbacks. The water is very salty and can sting if you have cuts or scrapes. The salt content also makes it difficult to swim. Additionally, the lake can be smelly and buggy.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Yes, you can swim in the salt lake, but it is not recommended. The water is extremely salty, which can cause eye irritation and skin rashes. It also contains high &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":4310,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4309"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4309"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4309\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":9553,"href":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4309\/revisions\/9553"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4310"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4309"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4309"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4309"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}