Ancient Lake Returns to Life in California’s Death Valley

In Death Valley, known as perhaps the hottest place on the planet, an ancient lake has resurfaced after a series of record-breaking rains. This lake, called Lake Manly, dried up roughly 130,000 years ago.

Lake Manly came into existence during the Ice Age when woolly mammoths and saber-toothed cats roamed the landscape. Geological studies indicate that, as the climate has changed and temperatures have risen, this once vast body of water—about 160 miles long and 600 feet deep—has significantly diminished.

However, following the heavy rains of last month, some residents and tourists have been taken aback as the white salt flats have reformed into what resembles water once more.

The Badwater Basin in Death Valley is situated around 300 feet below sea level, making it the lowest point in North America. Rain typically falls on the higher mountains nearby, but extreme weather has been redirecting water into the basin over the past few years.

From September to November, the area recorded 2.4 inches of rain, with a notable 1.8 inches falling just in November, a new record since 1923, as reported by the National Park Service.

“These fall storms brought more rain than Death Valley usually gets in a year,” the NPS noted.

The unusual precipitation has created a stunning sight, with the ghostly outline of an ancient lake against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Current residents and park rangers warn that this latest form of Lake Manly is shallow and probably won’t stick around for long. “It looks like a lake, but it’s not very deep. It’s more akin to a large riverbed without a current; probably more like a wading pool,” remarked an employee from the Death Valley Inn.

“It’s interesting, but not really a lake,” she added, reflecting on its temporary allure.

Analysis from March to February 2024 indicated that rainfall had caused the basin to fill, with Lake Manly reaching about three feet deep at its maximum. During this time, visitors were even allowed to kayak on its waters.

Since the resurgence of the lake, business at the Death Valley Inn has reportedly surged by 30%, according to employees’ discussions with local media.

However, flooding has led to road closures throughout Death Valley National Park, particularly along Badwater Road, which provides access to Lake Manly. Park officials are advising motorists to drive carefully.

Death Valley park ranger Nicole Andler mentioned that visitors can look forward to seeing Lake Manly until early next year. “Dante’s View offers some of the best sunrise views of the lake, which is truly a sight to behold,” she noted.