Healing and history at Canada’s saltiest body of water, Little Manitou Lake

Little Manitou Lake, located just outside the small community of Watrous in Saskatchewan, Canada, is known as the "Dead Sea of Canada" due to its exceptionally high salt content. The lake, which was formed by glaciers exposing bedrock and minerals, is up to five times saltier than the ocean and is believed to possess healing properties. Indigenous people have used the water for its therapeutic benefits for centuries, with oral traditions suggesting its use in treating ailments such as smallpox.

One such story involves a woman named Lydia from southern Saskatchewan, who was unable to walk independently. She visited Manitou Beach and spent 10 days soaking in the healing waters. Upon her return home, Lydia was able to take small, stiff steps and eventually moved to Watrous, living out the rest of her life there.

Beyond its healing properties, Manitou Beach is also rich in history. Over 3,000 artifacts from Indigenous people dating back centuries have been discovered along the shore. The area is also home to The Salty Cinema Drive-In Theater, one of only three remaining drive-in theaters in the province. The unique combination of healing waters, historical artifacts, and nostalgic movie-going experiences draws visitors from across Canada and beyond. Manitou Beach attracts approximately 150,000 visitors each year.

Testimonials from visitors highlight the benefits of the water for recovery. Bob Dobko, from Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, shared that he recovered from a hip injury and continues to visit Manitou Beach for its therapeutic effects, particularly the magnesium in the water. His experience with the water has also helped him regain mobility in his arm.