Spotted Lake

Spotted Lake is a sacred medicine lake of the Okanagan People. In 1979 the Okanagan Elders and Chiefs came together and wrote the Statement of the Okanagan Tribal Chiefs on Spotted Lake, which reflected the thoughts, feelings and voice of the Okanagan People.

News Release October 21 2001


Excerpts From the Statement:

“Since the dawn of history, Spotted Lake or “Ha? Ki lil xw” As we call is has been a sacred place. Indians from all tribes came to visit the Lake for the medicine it the lake contains. The ceremonial cairns, too numerous to count that surround the lake testify to that. Some of these are so ancient they have sunk underground and only their tops remain above ground. Some are buried altogether. There are many stories told by our ancestors about the cures this lake has provided, physically and spiritually through its medicine powers……

.…. Its medicinal powers are not to be taken lightly. This Lake is a Chief among lakes, its powers are above the purely physical. It contains 365 circles in various shapes, sizes and depths. Each particular day of the year. Anyone who goes to this lake will find the right circle if he seeks.