Spotted Lake

This enclosed salt lake covers roughly 23 hectares (56 acres) at an elevation of 573 meters (1,880 feet) and reveals mineral deposits forming circular patterns across its surface when summer temperatures trigger evaporation.

Mining operations extracted minerals from this formation for ammunition production during the First World War, illustrating its industrial importance before indigenous communities regained control of the territory through negotiations completed in 2001.

The Syilx Okanagan refer to this body of water as Kłlil'xᵂ, viewing it as a protected ceremonial ground where their ancestors collected therapeutic minerals and performed rituals connected to wellness and spiritual practice.

Barriers surround the perimeter and entry requires advance authorization from the Okanagan Nation Alliance due to ongoing ceremonial use, with viewing possible from Highway 3 without trespassing on restricted grounds.

Elevated levels of magnesium sulfate, calcium compounds, sodium sulfates, plus trace silver and titanium create polka dot patterns that shift in color and size between spring moisture and late summer dryness.

Location: British Columbia

Elevation above the sea: 573 m

Address: Spotted Lake, Okanagan-Similkameen, BC V0H 1V5, Canada

GPS coordinates: 49.07806,-119.56667

Latest update: December 2, 2025 10:22