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Just a 10-minute drive from Dalol, or a 20-minute drive from Lake Assale in northern Ethiopia is a mysterious canyon. Although temperatures are often in the 90s or higher, it looks as if it’s been dusted with snow that never seems to melt.
The canyon does not really have a name. It is aptly referred to as the “Salt Canyon” because of the fine layer of white salt the covers everything. The nearby salt lake, Lake Assale, also known as Lake Karum, has strong winds and is surrounded by salt flats. Strong winds pick up the salt from the nearby flats and deposit it across the surface of the canyon.
The canyon is very close to Dalol, often described as the hottest inhabited place on Earth.
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Know Before You Go
Know Before You Go:
Follow the walking path on the way to Salt Canyon. There is is a brown, smooth layer of dirt mixed with salt surrounding this path. It takes years to form this layer and it is instantly destroyed when you step on it. However, the areas that are crested with white at the actual canyon are not vulnerable in the same way and will not be affected if walked upon.
It should be noted that the terrain of Salt Canyon is incredibly sharp and can easily tear apart non-hiking boots. On tours to Dalol, Salt Canyon, and Erta Ale, it is not uncommon for even hiking boots to be destroyed. Some individuals carried duct tape or packing tape for this scenario.
If climbing the canyon, take care to make sure you can go up and down a path without needing to hoist yourself. Since the rocks are incredibly sharp, it is easy to get many minor cuts.
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Published
July 9, 2025
