In the last six years I have driven the 500 miles between Reno and Las Vegas about fifteen times. I'll add to this journal as I find the photos.
Walker Lake
Topping a crest on 95 going south, the sight of Walker Lake always startles me. A real lake in the desert - both unexpected and natural looking. The barren beach-colored mountains and flats separate the lake and sky, both a polished turquoise.
I drive twenty minutes serpentining at the base of rocky mountains a very short distance from the shore of the lake. A lone pickup with a camper top is parked midway, the owner fishing alone. I used to see more fishermen, but then there used to be more fish. The lake, drying up, continues to become saltier as the water level diminishes.
The Great Basin Desert covers Nevada, lapping onto nearby states like the ancient Lake Lahontan it once was. No water falling or flowing within the basin ever reaches the sea.
1 comment:
Walker Lake looks soooo beautiful. I appreciate seeing your photo and description - and your sharing its wonder. If only it were fit to play in!!! My 'understanding' as to it's current state of 'decay' is the result of the loss of an outlet. We did make attempts to swim - 2 different beach areas, but the algae and the stagnant water in general was less than desirable.
The NV State Parks beach area was infested with spiders. They were actually kinda fun to watch, but deterred me from using the bathroom facilities or picnic area. At least one nightmare I had was a result of this spider infestation.
Lake Tahoe - it is not!!!!
Pam
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