Vegetation in the desert consists of several species of cactus and sagebrush. The most unique plant is Antelope Brush, which houses many animals and other plants. This is a delicate ecosystem and it is at risk due to abuse by humans. Animal life consists of many species of lizards, scorpions, snakes, bats toads, hawks, sparrows, rabbits and deer. The hillsides are dotted with fir and pine that looks like stubble from a distance.
No visit to Osoyoos would be complete without a visit to Anarchist Mountain Viewpoint. There are two vantagepoints. One of them gives a panoramic view of the town of Osoyoos, Haynes Point and south to Washington State. The second viewpoint offers a view of Osoyoos Lake and the 'pocket desert'.
Visitors will notice a drastic change in vegetation as they ascend the mountain to an elevation of 4045 feet. At the lower levels, there is sagebrush and cactus and then mountain pines emerge further up. Although it may be warm on a summer evening in the lowland, a sweater is suggested if going up to the Viewpoint in the evening.
With the intrigue of the desert and the recreation offering of the lake, it is no surprise that this small town of 4500 people has a population explosion every summer. Don't bring an umbrella unless you are planning to go westward and visit the coast!
Photo credit: © 1999, Queen's Printer for British Columbia All rights reserved
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