📜 Natural salt lake, part of the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge, with an estimated 4 million tons of salt. 🔍 Known as "La Sal del Rey" or 'Salt of the King', it has a rich history of mining since prehistoric times. # Why Go 🚶 Walk on a unique salt crust or salt flats 🦅 Observe diverse wildlife and birds 💎 See fascinating salt crystal formations and seasonal pink hues 📚 Explore a site vital during the American Civil War 🌅 Experience a beautiful natural wonder # Why Avoid ⚠️ Can sink on the salt, exercise caution 🥵 Intense Texas heat, especially in summer, bring water 🐍 Rattlesnakes present in native brush # Tips 💧 Bring water and insect repellent 👥 Visit with a friend or in a group 🚶 Trail is about one mile each way 🅿️ Best access via the southern entrance from Texas Route 186 # Cost 💰 No admission fees # Hours 🕒 Daily, sunrise to sunset # 🚻 Toilets Restrooms on site # 🅿️ Parking Small parking lot available off U.S. 186, with trailhead access.