Want to experience this fascinating natural phenomenon up close? For many tourists, this is unknown. You are probably already quite aware, because you found this blog. Read on and discover how you can explore the pink lake on Stansbury Island, Utah!
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Why is the Great Salt Lake pink?
The pink water at the Great Salt Lake is caused by halophilic bacteria and microorganisms that thrive in environments with a very high salt concentration. The Great Salt Lake has two pink lakes within its waters: one on Stansbury Island and the other in the northern bay near the Spiral Jetty.
The pink lakes are formed because the water west of Stansbury Island and north of the railroad causeway of the Great Salt Lake is cut off from the freshwater that flows in from the Weber, Jordan, Bear, and Ogden Rivers. As a result, the water in these enclosed areas evaporates faster, leaving behind a higher salt concentration. These conditions are ideal for the pink bacteria to flourish, giving the water its striking pink color.
The best place to visit: Stansbury Island Viewpoint
You can best set your navigation to Stansbury Island Viewpoint (Google Maps). This is a viewpoint with parking and toilet facilities. If you want a better idea of it, take a look at Google Streetview. I always find it nice myself to have a bit of an idea of where I’m arriving. From the parking lot, you simply walk to the beach!
Do keep in mind that you drive quite a stretch of unpaved road. The road to get here is therefore not comfortable. You also need to assess whether your car or camper is suitable for it under the current weather conditions.
Is it safe to swim in the pink lake?
Although swimming in bacteria and algae may sound unpleasant, it is safe to swim in the Pink Lake of Utah. Just make sure you don’t get the salty water in your eyes!
What is the best time to visit the pink lake of Utah?
The Pink Lake is pink all year round, but can be less vibrant after heavy rainfall or snowfall. Summer is the best time to visit, especially if you want to float in the water. Keep in mind that it can get very hot in this area. The heat is also the reason this phenomenon is visible.
Tips for visiting the pink lake on Stansbury Island
- Make sure you wear old swimwear and footwear and bring trash bags to pack everything in. The salt will get everywhere!
- It might be worth just wearing old things that can be thrown away instead of trying to clean them.
- The dried salt can be rough on your feet, so I recommend buying cheap water shoes.
- Make sure you bring a fresh set of clothes, underwear, and shoes. You definitely don’t want to make the long drive home wearing stiff and itchy clothes. You also don’t want the salt in your car!
- Bring fresh water to rinse off the salt. The salt will dry and stay on your skin, causing itching.
- There is no rinse station or running water in the toilet, so make sure you bring baby wipes and fresh water to rinse off.
- The salt will also sting if you have cuts or scrapes, so wear a waterproof bandage if you have a wound.
- The color of the water changes depending on the angle and light. It certainly looks much more vibrant from above.
- If you arrive for the first time, it may not look so pink, but when you stand in the water and look down, the color will stand out more.
- For the best photos of the pink water, I recommend a drone. Drone permits cost only $1 and are available at the Great Salt Lake State Park visitor center.
- Stansbury Island is also quite remote with limited cell service. Make sure you pack enough water and snacks and fill up your tank.
The pink lake of Utah on Stansbury Island is a unique destination you definitely don’t want to miss. Whether you want to float in the salty water, take beautiful drone shots, or just have seen it once in your life. Have fun!
