An ancient lake that once stretched across what is now the Mojave Desert has reappeared, bringing a rare and temporary transformation to Death Valley National Park. The lake, known as Lake Manly, formed again after months of unusually heavy rainfall filled the desert basin, creating a shallow body of water in one of the driest and hottest regions on Earth.
This seasonal revival follows a record-breaking 1.76 inches of rain in November, part of a three-month total of 2.41 inches between September and November, according to the National Park Service. That November total surpassed the previous record set in 1923.
The area, which sits more than 200 feet below sea level, typically receives only about 2 inches of rain annually due to the Sierra Nevada range blocking most Pacific moisture.
The ancient lake briefly returned in 2023 after Hurricane Hilary, downgraded to a post-tropical low, dropped 2.2 inches of rain.
Water levels declined afterward until February 2024, when another 1.5 inches of rain from a powerful atmospheric river deepened the lake once more. NASA researchers found that during February and March, water depths ranged from just under 3 feet to around 1.5 feet.
Weather extremes revive an ancient lake in the Mojave Desert
Though Lake Manly’s footprint is impressive, it is shallow and expected to disappear soon. Death Valley park ranger Nichole Andler said the lake’s duration depends on upcoming weather conditions, including temperature, wind and the chance of more rain. Cooler weather could help it linger into the new year, but nothing is certain.
After record rainfall filled Death Valley’s Badwater Basin, an ancient Ice Age lake known as Lake Manly has temporarily reappeared in California’s Death Valley National Park pic.twitter.com/cv2PTsPAgE
— Anwyn Robbins (@AnwynVerse) December 13, 2025
Some of the most scenic views of the lake are visible from Dante’s View, especially at sunrise, Andler added.
Local businesses have seen a surge in visitors eager to witness the rare sight. Katt, an employee at the Death Valley Inn near the park entrance, said guest numbers have climbed by up to 30 percent since the lake reappeared.
She noted that the lake looks more like a vast, shallow basin than a deep water body, comparing it to a giant riverbed with no current. In some spots, she said, the water reached her knees.
Tourism increases as park officials urge caution
Park officials warn that recent storms have damaged several roads, leaving some impassable due to debris and flooding.
Popular sites such as Zabriskie Point, Dante’s View, Badwater Basin and Mesquite Sand Dunes remain open. Visitors are advised to use caution on backcountry routes and be prepared for emergencies.
Despite its temporary nature, the return of the ancient lake has once again turned the Mojave Desert into a place of unexpected beauty.
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