Travel

Where In The World Is ... Spotted Lake?

Somewhere in the world, there's a lake that looks like it belongs on an alien planet. In winter and spring, the lake actually looks like any other, but as summer begins, it goes through an incredible change. As much of the lake water evaporates, hundreds of giant briny pools remain, creating an unforgettable landscape. Can you guess where in the world this place is located?

This close-up shows some of the mesmerizing patterns that can be seen in the summer if you visit Spotted Lake.

Spotted Lake is a saline endorheic alkali lake located northwest of Osoyoos in the eastern Similkameen Valley of British Columbia, Canada, — (Nalidsa Sukprasert )

From above, you can get a sense of the varied colors in different pools. This variety is due to a high concentration of minerals that run off from hills surrounding the lake and collect in the water. For centuries, the indigenous people who live in the area close to the lake have called it Kliluk, and consider it a sacred place. They believe that each of the circles has various healing and medicinal properties.

Are you ready to learn where Spotted Lake is? Well, here is your answer:

Spotted Lake is located northwest of Osoyoos in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, just under 250 miles east of Vancouver. You can view the lake from a lookout point off of Highway 3. If you want to get closer, you'll need to book a tour with a local Syilx guide via Sẁiẁs Spirit Tours or Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, or ask for permission from the Okanagan Nation Alliance.

Senior writer Chris DeWeese edits Morning Brief, The Weather Channel’s weekday newsletter.