The Magic Of Spotted Lake

Just west of Osoyoos, nestled within the desert landscape of the Eastern Similkameen Valley, you’ll find kłlilx’^w, also known as Spotted Lake – a beautiful and unique body of water.

 

Spotted Lake is a mineral lake, rich in calcium, sodium sulphates and magnesium sulphate, among others. For most of the year, Spotted Lake looks like any other body of water while these minerals float just under the surface. But during the hot summer weather that the valley is known for, much of the water in the lake evaporates and the leftover minerals form spots. These spots will change size and shape over the summer, and they range in colours from blue to green to yellow, depending on the minerals that make up each spot.

According to Destination Osoyoos, “Spotted Lake is known to the First Nations People of the Osoyoos area as kłlilx’w, and it is a sacred site that has been considered a revered place of healing for centuries. The belief is that each of the different circles holds its own unique medicinal and healing properties. The land surrounding the lake was privately owned for 40 years, but in 2001 the federal government acquired it for the benefit and uses of the Okanagan Nation. This ensures that this historically important land can be protected from development, so that future generations of the Okanagan Nation will continue to benefit, as did their ancestors. It also ensures that future visitors will still be able to view this incredible natural phenomenon. If you are interested in learning more about the Okanagan First Nation, The Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre is a great place to explore and learn more about their rich cultural history.”

 

Getting to Spotted Lake isn’t as easy as just walking up to it. The lake is located within the South Okanagan Grasslands Protected Area and it’s a sacred site. Visitors, therefore, are not permitted beyond the viewpoint. However, the viewpoint does offer excellent views and photo opportunities.

 

To reach the area, take Highway 3 west out of Osoyoos for about 10 kilometres.