Spotted Lake is located in the northwest of Osoyoos, east of the Similkameen Valley in British Columbia, Canada.
In winter and spring, the lake resembles other lakes. However, as summer arrives and the water gradually evaporates, hundreds of large puddles emerge, leaving behind a “spotted” lake with beautiful yellow, green, and blue dots. The name Spotted Lake originates from this phenomenon.
Aerial view of Spotted Lake.
Spotted Lake is a rare alkaline saline lake. Measuring 0.7 km in length and 0.25 km in width, the lake is situated in a desert climate and is surrounded by rocky hills. The colorful puddles are a result of the accumulation of high concentrations of minerals, including calcium, sodium sulfate, and magnesium sulfate.
Unique formations of the lake during summer as the water evaporates.
Located in the Similkameen Valley of British Columbia, Spotted Lake appears as if it were taken straight out of a fairy tale.
From its name, one can somewhat envision the shape of the lake. However, this was not its original name. For the indigenous people, this wonder is known as Kliluk – the name of the minerals that make up the lake.
In reality, we cannot always observe the “spots” of Spotted Lake because it is an endorheic basin. The water in the lake is not replenished by rivers but relies entirely on melting snow, groundwater, and rainfall. Therefore, in autumn and winter, when the water level is still high, it is challenging to witness this special natural phenomenon.
It is only in spring and summer that the small “spots” of various colors, including yellow, green, and blue, reveal themselves. As the clouds dissipate and the sun shines, the water in Spotted Lake begins to evaporate, and vibrant circles gradually appear.
The colorful puddles result from the high concentration of minerals accumulating in the water, including calcium, sodium sulfate, and magnesium sulfate. During the rainy season, minerals and salts from the surrounding hills flow into the lake.
Puddles of various colors from green to yellow and brown.
The lake area is fenced off; visitors can only observe from afar.
During World War I, the lake was dredged to collect minerals for munitions, which significantly reduced the concentrations of substances in the lake, and the colors of the water are no longer as vibrant as before.
According to the British Columbia Visitor Center, Spotted Lake is considered a sacred site by indigenous peoples. They believe that each circle has different properties and healing effects; therefore, tourists are not allowed to swim or get too close to the lake.
To protect the lake, a fence has been erected with signs explaining that this is a culturally and ecologically sensitive area. Despite this, there are many stopping points along the highway that provide visitors with the opportunity to observe the lake from the best viewpoints.
Overall, Spotted Lake is a remarkable geological wonder that offers valuable insights into the geological processes shaping the surface of our planet, as well as the role of minerals and water in supporting life. The unique composition and structure of the lake have made it an intriguing subject for research and exploration.
