Kayaking the Salt Flats (locations+equipments)

In this article, we will talk about kayaking the salt flats. Kayaking on the Bonneville Salt Flats has gone viral on many social medias and the scene has attracts many kayakers, but it should be considered that kayaking there is unsafe and has lots of risks. Fortunately, Utah offers numerous safe and legal kayaking, such as the Great Salt Lake and Bear Lake, where kayakers can enjoy without compromising their safety or the environment.

Equipment Needed for Kayaking the Salt Flats

For kayaking the salt flats, special equipment is required, which we will introduce below:

1. Warm clothing to protect against the cold water and weather, check the article winter kayaking gear
2.  Apply sunscreen to protect yourself from sunburn
3. Choose a kayak suitable for flat water conditions. The kayaks below are the best:

• • Sit-On-Top Kayaks: They are ideal for casual paddling in flat water conditions.
  • Recreational Kayaks: They are ideal for navigating the calm waters of salt flats.
  • Inflatable Kayaks: They are lightweight and portable.
  • Pedal-Powered Kayaks: They are hands-free so you can enjoy the scenery without using their arms.

1. A lightweight paddle designed for your kayak type is essential
2. Dry bag for storing extra clothing, snacks, first aid kits, and other essential
3. Staying hydrated is crucial, so bring enough water along with snacks for your trip
4. Paddles suitable for kayaking the salt flats are usually made of lightweight, durable materials such as aluminum or fiberglass

where to go for kayaking the salt flats

Here are some popular locations known for kayaking on salt flats, along with details:

Best Times to Visit

The best time for kayaking the salt flat is from November to May which is cooler. In this time the flats have thin layer of water. Of course you should check the weather condition before starting your trip. Avoid visiting during extreme heat (over 100°F) in summer or heavy rain, which can make the ground unstable.

Challenges of Kayaking on Salt Flats

• The uneven surface of salt flats, has made the launching challenging and finding the right place can have a lot of risks to both the kayak and the terrain.
• Launching a kayak can be challenging due to the weight of the kayak and the uneven surface of the salt crust. Paddlers may find it difficult to move the kayak from solid ground into the water, particularly if the salt crust is thick or fragile, making it hard to find a stable spot for launching.
• in salt flats water may not be accessible due to dry areas. So there should be an additional effort to reach suitable paddling conditions.
• The dry conditions can lead to dehydration quickly. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your kayaking trip.
• If you accidentally come into contact with saltwater, rinse off immediately with fresh water if available. Saltwater can irritate the skin and eyes.