The Story Behind This Washington Lake Is Bizarre But True
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Nikki Cleveland
Author
Soap Lake is not your average body of water. This unique mineral lake in eastern Washington was formed back during the Ice Age period, and has been long thought to hold healing properties. It’s even been known to help treat certain medical conditions, and will leave your skin soft and smooth after going for a swim.
There's a small, quiet town by the shores that's only home to about 1,500 people. Back in the early 1900s, it was a hot spot for a huge spa and resort. People from all over the world would flock to this lake and soak in its healing waters.
Soap Lake is rich in 23 different minerals, and is thought to have the most diverse content than any other body of water on Earth. It contains washing soda, as well as ichthyols - an oil-like substance that's sold in Europe to treat infections and abrasions.
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Because of all the minerals, the water has a soapy, slick appearance. On a windy day, you can even see white foam washing up onto the shores. If you rub some of the dark, sulfurous mud from the shore on your skin, it's said to draw out toxins, and leave it feeling silky smooth.
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The water has even been shown to help with arthritis, muscle pains, and skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. It's also been a successful treatment for Buerger's and Raynaud's disease, by helping with circulation.
You can find this desert oasis on the lower Grand Coulee, not far from Dry Falls. Nearby, there are plenty of lodging options including The Inn At Soap Lake, as well as the lovely Nataras Lodge.
Have you been to Soap Lake before? Would you swim in this natural mineral water?
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