Harrison Hot Springs sits on the southern shore of Harrison Lake in British Columbia’s Fraser Valley, roughly a two-hour drive east of Vancouver. For centuries the local Sts’ailes (Coast Salish) people revered these mineral waters as a healing place, and today the village pairs natural hot springs with a big, beautiful lake and easy day trips into the surrounding mountains and farmland. Here are the best places to visit near Harrison Hot Springs.
Soak in the Hot Springs
The springs are the reason the village exists. Two natural sources feed the pools — a sulphur spring and a potash spring — and the public mineral pool is kept at a comfortable soaking temperature of about 38°C (100°F). The Harrison Hot Springs Resort, operating on the waterfront since the 1880s, offers five mineral pools for overnight guests, along with spa treatments and lakeside dining. Even in winter, when the village quiets down, the warm water makes this a year-round destination.
Harrison Lake and the Village Waterfront
Harrison Lake itself is the centerpiece of summer. The sandy beach near the village is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, outfitters rent boats, jet skis and paddleboards, and tour boats run scenic cruises up the lake and the Harrison River. Families should look out for the giant inflatable water park anchored offshore in the summer months. The lakeside Spirit Trail makes for an easy stroll with mountain views, and nearby Rendall Park is a good picnic spot.
Kilby Historic Site
A short drive east to Harrison Mills brings you to the Kilby Historic Site, a “Museum of Rural Life” set in a 1920s general store, farm and post office. Costumed interpreters, heritage orchards and farm animals make it one of the most engaging history stops in the Fraser Valley, and it pairs naturally with a drive along scenic Highway 7.
Sasquatch Provincial Park
Just minutes from the village, Sasquatch Provincial Park wraps around Hicks Lake and Deer Lake with campgrounds, gentle hiking trails and good trout fishing. It is an easy half-day escape when you want forest and fresh water without driving far. Back in the village, the free Sasquatch Museum covers local culture and folklore, including the legendary namesake.
Bridal Veil Falls
About 45 minutes west near Chilliwack, Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park protects a 60-metre cascade that fans out over smooth rock. A short, easy trail leads to the viewpoint, making it a perfect add-on for the drive to or from Harrison Hot Springs.
Agassiz and the Circle Farm Tour
The farming town of Agassiz sits just down the road and anchors the Circle Farm Tour, a self-guided route linking farm gates, cheese makers, nurseries and country markets across the valley. It is a relaxed way to spend a morning tasting the region’s produce before heading back to the lake.
Planning Your Visit
Summer is peak season for the lake, while spring and fall bring quieter trails and pleasant soaking weather. Time your trip for the Harrison Festival of the Arts in July or the sand-sculpture competition in early September if you enjoy village events. For more trip inspiration, browse our list of the top 12 places to visit in the world.
FAQ
How far is Harrison Hot Springs from Vancouver?
Roughly a two-hour drive east, mostly along Highway 1 and then scenic Highway 7.
Can you use the hot springs without staying at the resort?
Yes. The public mineral pool welcomes day visitors, while the resort’s five pools are reserved for overnight guests.
What is there to do at Harrison Lake besides the springs?
Swimming, boating, fishing, paddle sports, summer water-park sessions and easy lakeside walks.
Is Harrison Hot Springs worth visiting in winter?
Yes — the village is quieter, the hot springs feel even better in cold air, and the lakeside lights in December add seasonal charm.
Harrison Hot Springs works beautifully as a slow weekend: soak in the morning, explore the lake or a nearby park in the afternoon, and finish the day with dinner on the waterfront.
