Canada’s Shangri-La Harbors a “Water Demon”

The pristine and beautiful Okanagan Lake. (Photo provided by Reachpix/shutterstock)

The Okanagan Lake area, with its distinct four seasons, bursts into a riot of colors in spring when white, pink, red, and yellow blossoms adorn the fruit trees, painting the hillsides vividly. Sweet fruits can be enjoyed all the way until October. The fertile soil brings vibrant life to the region, yet in this lively place, there also exists the legend of a so-called “water demon.”

What is the “water demon”? According to ancient Indigenous legends, a wicked man possessed by an evil spirit was punished by the gods for killing the tribe’s chief. As a result, he was transformed into a giant serpent named “Ogopogo,” which means “water demon” in the Indigenous language. Though it’s just a legend, there have been numerous reported sightings. In 1872, a woman claimed to have seen a 60- to 150-meter-long lake creature with the head of a horse and the body of a snake. In 1926, 30 people reportedly spotted the long spine of the creature at once. There is actually more evidence of Ogopogo’s existence than that of the Loch Ness Monster. Who knows? Maybe you’ll “encounter” this legendary being when you visit. Oh, and don’t forget to bring a camera.

The Ogopogo statue by the dock has such a cute appearance that it’s hardly frightening at all. (Photo provided by Reachpix/shutterstock)

The legend of Ogopogo adds an air of mystery to Okanagan Lake. But even when no water monsters appear, the scenery here is purely beautiful and has even been called Canada’s Shangri-La. The azure lake water, along with pink and snow-white blossoms, makes the land even more enchanting. Spring blooms, sweet fruits throughout summer and autumn, and winter’s powdery snow make every season a delight to visit!