The Lone Star State is home to one of the only salt lakes in America, and hardly anyone seems to know it exists. La Sal del Rey, located just off TX-186 in Edinburg, is one of the most unique natural wonders in Texas, sitting on a whopping four million tons of salt. You can practically walk on water on the Salt Lake in Texas!
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Accessing the lake requires an approximately three-mile walk, and the parking area can be found on Brushline Road. The best time to visit La Sal del Rey is during spring or fall when the temperatures are under 80° F. or so. The lake completely dries up in the summer, and the heat in this shadeless expanse can be intense. Get the sun protection and hiking gear you’ll need at Backcountry. Admission to the wildlife refuge is always free. Visit the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service on the web for more information about the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
Have you ever visited La Sal del Rey, this Salt Lake in Texas? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a nearby state park where you can see more bird species than almost anywhere else on earth.
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Salt Lake In Texas
Megan McDonald|June 16, 2023
Is there a Salt Lake in Texas?
La Sal del Rey, meaning "The King's Salt," is a remarkable natural wonder located in the southernmost tip of Texas. Situated in Hidalgo County, this expansive salt lake spans over 1,200 acres, captivating visitors with its ethereal beauty. With its glistening white salt crusts that stretch as far as the eye can see, La Sal del Rey offers a surreal and otherworldly experience.
The lake holds significant historical and cultural importance as it was once a vital resource for indigenous communities and later became a prominent site for salt mining during the Spanish colonial era. Today, it stands as a protected area, providing a sanctuary for diverse bird species and offering nature enthusiasts a chance to witness this natural salt lake's raw and serene beauty.
How many salt lakes are there in Texas?
In Texas, there are three notable salt lakes, each with its own unique qualities and contributions to the state's natural landscape. Let's explore each of these salt lakes:
- La Sal Vieja: Located in Zapata County, La Sal Vieja is a saline lake known for its extensive salt flats and vibrant pink hue caused by high concentrations of salt and minerals. The lake is situated within the Las Palomas Wildlife Management Area and is an essential habitat for various bird species. Its striking colors and otherworldly appearance make it a fascinating sight for visitors.
- La Sal Blanca: Nestled in Hidalgo County, La Sal Blanca is a salt lake that showcases a mesmerizing white color owing to its high salt content. It is located near the southernmost tip of Texas, close to the Rio Grande River. Like La Sal del Rey, La Sal Blanca played a historic role as a source of salt for indigenous communities and later attracted Spanish explorers and settlers.
- La Sal del Rey: As mentioned before, La Sal del Rey, meaning "The King's Salt," is a notable salt lake situated in Hidalgo County. It spans over 1,200 acres and is known for its expansive salt flats and historical significance. The lake provided salt to indigenous communities and later became a significant site for salt mining during the Spanish colonial era. Today, it is a protected area that offers visitors a chance to witness the beauty of its vast salt crusts and observe various bird species.
These salt lakes in Texas contribute to the state's diverse natural heritage, offering unique ecosystems and captivating landscapes. Each lake showcases the fascinating interplay of geology, climate, and history, making them remarkable destinations for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and those seeking to explore the state's distinct natural features.
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La Sal Del Rey, TX-186, Edinburg, TX 78542, USA
