Deschutes National Forest - Exploring the Myth of Slangwawa
In the heart of the Deschutes National Forest lies Lihimalama, a hidden gem known as the "Whispering Springs." According to Warm Springs Tribal legend, a giant serpent named Slangwawa once resided in the area, its powerful breath creating the hot springs.In the lore of the Warm Springs Tribal people, this creature is not a terrifying monster, but a revered protector, forever linked to the land and its healing waters.
Slangwawa is described as a gigantic serpent, its scales shimmering like obsidian and its voice a deep rumble echoing through the earth. Slangwawa's powerful breath is credited with creating the Lihimalama Hot Springs, its geothermal energy a manifestation of its life force. The whispering sound of the steam is believed to be the serpent's voice, offering wisdom and reminding bathers of their ties to nature and the ancestral spirits. Unlike the fearsome serpents of some narratives, Slangwawa embodies protection and guardianship over the Warm Springs people and their land.
The Slangwawa story is more than just a tale of a giant serpent. It reflects the Warm Springs Tribe's deep respect for nature, their belief in the interconnectedness of all living things, and the importance of maintaining harmony with the spirit world.
Bathing in the springs is seen as a way to connect with Slangwawa's protective energy, seeking guidance and a sense of belonging to the land.
Additional Resources
Tribal Voices: Oral Histories of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs by Barry M. Pritzl
Whispering Springs: Warm Springs Tribal Stories by Robert A. Sattler
Whispers of the Wind: Native American Legends of Oregon by Dorothy Jean Ray
