The Great Salt Lake in Utah is one of the world’s most remarkable natural features, prompting a common question: can you actually float in it? The answer is yes, and you float with an ease unlike almost any other body of water on Earth. This unique sensation is a direct result of the lake’s extraordinary chemical composition. The water’s high concentration of dissolved minerals creates a powerful buoyant force, allowing bodies to rest effortlessly on the surface.
The Definitive Answer: Salinity and Density
The ability to float easily in the Great Salt Lake is directly linked to its extreme salinity, which dictates the water’s density. The lake is a terminal lake, meaning water flows in from rivers but only leaves through evaporation, causing dissolved salts to accumulate over time. While the average salinity of the world’s oceans is approximately 3.5%, the Great Salt Lake’s salinity can fluctuate wildly, ranging from 5% to nearly 28% in certain sections, depending on the water level and location.
This massive concentration of salt particles makes the water significantly denser than regular freshwater or ocean water. For instance, the highly saline North Arm has been measured at up to 28% salt, making it eight times saltier than the average ocean. Since the salt content is not uniform, the buoyancy experience changes across the lake; the south arm is typically less dense than the north arm due to freshwater inflows.
The Science Behind Extreme Buoyancy
The underlying principle governing this extreme flotation is Archimedes’ Principle, which explains buoyancy as an upward force equal to the weight of the fluid an object displaces. For an object to float, its density must be less than the density of the fluid it displaces. The average density of the human body is only slightly less than that of freshwater, which is why floating requires effort in a typical pool or lake.
The water in the Great Salt Lake is so mineral-laden that its density is substantially higher than the density of the human body. When a person enters this hypersaline water, their body displaces a volume of water that is much heavier than their own mass. This creates a powerful upward buoyant force that easily supports the body on the surface.
This contrasts sharply with the experience in less dense water, where only a portion of the body is held above the waterline. In the Great Salt Lake, you can lie back and remain completely suspended, bobbing much like a cork, with minimal effort required to stay afloat.
Practical Tips for Visitors
While the floating experience is unique, the high salinity requires specific precautions for visitors. The primary safety measure is avoiding contact between the water and your eyes, as the concentrated salt will cause severe stinging and burning. Wearing goggles can help protect your eyes if you plan to fully immerse yourself.
The salt can also irritate any small cuts, scrapes, or recent shaving nicks on the skin, causing a distinct burning sensation. Upon exiting the lake, the salt water dries quickly, leaving a crusty layer of salt crystals on the skin and clothing. It is advisable to use available outdoor showers or bring a supply of fresh water for an immediate rinse.
Visitors should wear water shoes or sandals, as the shoreline often features sharp, hardened salt crystals that can be uncomfortable or painful to walk on barefoot. Antelope Island State Park is a popular and accessible location for experiencing the float, offering facilities like showers and restrooms.