Death Valley National Park is one of the United State’s most incredible natural wonders, and it has recently become even more spectacular. A series of record rainstorms have battered this California national park, resulting in a lake forming in the famous Badwater Basin. This has allowed a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to kayak at one of the driest places on earth.

At 282 feet below sea level, Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America. It is also one of the hottest and driest places in North America.
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An expanse of famously barren white salt flats surrounded by sandy Mountains, Badwater Basin is a remnant of an ancient lake that existed tens of thousands of years ago.
Water typically evaporates faster than it can fill the basin, but in the last six months, Death Valley has received more than double its average annual rainfall amount. 

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With more than 4.9 inches of rainfall, billions of gallons of water have formed a six-mile-long by three-miles-wide lake known as Lake Manly.
NPS/J. Hallett
The lake began forming in August during the aftermath of Hurricane Hilary, and though it gradually shrank, a strong California form in early 2024 led to the lake’s current status. 


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With depths reaching a foot, this sapphire blue lake is one of the most unique natural phenomena in the country — and won’t be around for long.
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The last time Badwater Basin filled with a long-lasting body of water like this was approximately two decades ago, and visitors are famously taking advantage of the opportunity with kayaks, beach chairs set up by the shore, and kids and adults alike making a splash.
NPS/E.Letterman
Water levels are expected to drop again in a matter of weeks, though officials and park rangers believe the lake will probably stay into April.
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Have you experienced the beauty of Lake Manly? If we’re lucky, this vanishing lake in Death Valley National Park will stick around through National Park Week, which takes place from April 22 – 28, 2024.

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