September 15, 2009

okanagan falls & Spotted lake







2 little birds we saw on our walk



We went camping with our friends Chuck and Peggy to a government campground in Okanagan Falls, it is a very nice, but small campground. I saw deer when I went for a walk, which was quite cool. The campground is by a small lake with ducks and other birds. We drove to Osoyoos and saw spotted lake and went to Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad (see seperate blog)

Spotted Lake, Osoyoos

Nine kilometres west of Osoyoos on Highway 3 is Klikuk, the Spotted Lake, containing one of the world's highest concentrations of minerals, including epsom salts, calcium, magnesium and many other trace minerals. The healing mud and waters were used to alleviate aches and pains. In the summer the water evaporates and crystallizes, making the white-ringed spots visible. The lake is on private land, and is therefore not accessible, but you can get a good view from the highway.

klikuk" - the Spotted Lake can be spotted from Highway 3, 8.8 kms (5.5 miles) west of Osoyoos.

It is a rare natural phenomenon covering 15.2 hectares (38 acres), containing one of the world's highest concentrations of minerals: magnesium sulfate (epsom salts), calcium and sodium sulfates, plus eight other minerals and traces of four more, including silver and titanium.

As the summer progresses the lake dries out, its mud forming into white, pale yellow, green and blue circles depending on its mineral composition. Known as Kliluk to the natives of the Okanagan Valley, the lake is a sacred and culturally significant site whose potential for commercial exploitation recently generated much controversy.

The healing mud and waters were used by natives to alleviate aches and pains.