Great Salt Lake Utah Postcard

The Great Salt Lake, located in northern Utah, is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere and a striking natural landmark unlike anywhere else in North America. Often referred to as "America's Dead Sea," it is a remnant of the prehistoric Lake Bonneville, which once covered much of Utah. Today, the Great Salt Lake spans a vast area—though its size fluctuates dramatically with rainfall and drought—offering eerie beauty, unique ecosystems, and surreal landscapes. Its high salinity means few organisms can survive in the water, but it supports millions of migratory birds, especially at protected areas like Antelope Island and Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge. The lake is a place of contrasts: shimmering white salt flats, pink-hued water (caused by salt-tolerant bacteria and algae), and distant mountain reflections create a dreamlike environment. Visitors can float effortlessly in its buoyant water or explore the spiral-shaped land art known as the Spiral Jetty, created in the 1970s by artist Robert Smithson. While the lake's shoreline can be buggy and pungent in spots, its unique character and vast vistas make it a compelling stop for photographers, nature lovers, and those curious about the intersection of geology, ecology, and art. Despite ongoing environmental concerns, including shrinking water levels due to drought and diversion, the Great Salt Lake remains one of Utah’s most iconic and mysterious natural wonders.