Jean Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jean Lake |
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| Jean Dry Lake | |
Dust from ATVs on Jean Dry Lake
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 Jean Lake
Location in Nevada
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| Location | Clark County, Nevada |
| Coordinates | 35°47′19″N 115°15′40″W / 35.788596°N 115.261136°W |
| Type | endorheic dry lake |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface elevation | 2,772 feet (845 m) |
Jean Lake, also known as Jean Dry Lake, is a unique natural area in the desert. It is not a lake filled with water all the time. Instead, it is a flat, dry basin. This dry lake is located about 3 miles (4.8 km) east of the small town of Jean, Nevada. It is also close to Interstate 15, a major highway. Jean Lake sits at an elevation of about 2,772 feet (845 meters) above sea level.
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What is a Dry Lake?
A dry lake is a basin or depression that once held water. These areas are also called "playas." They are common in deserts and dry regions. Water might flow into them after heavy rain. However, this water quickly evaporates. This leaves behind a flat, dry surface.
Why is Jean Lake Dry?
Jean Lake is an "endorheic" basin. This means it is a closed basin. Water flows into it, but it does not flow out to rivers or oceans. Instead, any water that enters the basin stays there. It then either sinks into the ground or evaporates. This process keeps the lake dry most of the time.
Where is Jean Lake Located?
Jean Lake is found in Clark County, Nevada. It is surrounded by desert landscapes. The Bird Spring Range of mountains is nearby to the northwest. This mountain range helps form the basin where the dry lake sits.
Part of a Larger Area
Jean Lake is part of the Las Vegas Wash Watershed. A watershed is an area of land. All the water that falls on it drains into a common point. In this case, the water eventually flows towards the Las Vegas Wash. Another dry lake, Roach Lake, is also nearby. It is located to the south-southwest in the northern Ivanpah Valley.
Activities at Jean Dry Lake
Because Jean Lake is so flat and open, it is often used for different activities. People sometimes ride off-road vehicles like ATVs there. The wide, open space is perfect for these kinds of sports. It's important to be safe and follow rules when visiting.
