Harrison Hot Springs: Experience Scenic Natural Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs is a very popular destination, providing a beautiful lakeside resort experience of getting away from it all while still being only two hours from Vancouver. The short drive through the Fraser Valley is stunning, especially on Highway 7. This is a small, pretty community located on the south shore of Harrison Lake. There are sandy beaches and promenades, rejuvenating hot springs, and easy access to nearby provincial parks. Surrounded by the most breathtaking mountain views, it is a perfect stopover for relaxation and nature-filled exploration.

Table of Contents

Location

Bird view of Harrison Hot Springs showing the mountains and surrounding greenery.

Photo: Mount Robson / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Harrison Hot Springs is a small resort town at the southern end of Harrison Lake in British Columbia’s Fraser Valley. Residing within the Fraser Valley Regional District, it borders the District of Kent which includes the town of Agassiz. Best known for its curative hot springs, the town has only slightly over 1,500 residents. It is named after Benjamin Harrison, a former deputy governor of the Hudson’s Bay Company, and a very popular tourist spot due to some relaxation and natural beauty.

How To Reach Harrison Hot Springs

Green leaves on the trees signal the arrival of summer, paired with an amazing view from the car during a long drive.

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By Bus: Visitors can reach Harrison Hot Springs by bus using public transportation. The Fraser Valley Express (66 FVX) runs from Carvolth Exchange in Langley to downtown Chilliwack, where passengers can transfer to the Agassiz-Harrison Connector.

By Air: The nearest airport to Harrison Hot Springs is Abbotsford (YXX), located 53.2 kilometres away.

By Train: Visitors can take VIA Rail from Vancouver to Agassiz and then a taxi or bus to Harrison Hot Springs. Alternatively, they can travel by train from Bellingham Amtrak Station to Hot Springs Rd and Miami River Dr, a trip of about 5 hours and 40 minutes.

Places To Visit In And Around Harrison Hot Springs

Here are some top attractions in and around Harrison Hot Springs that are a must-visit:

1. Hicks Lake

The Dock at Hicks Lake near Harrison Hot Springs, a popular destination near British Columbia.

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Hicks Lake is a pleasant easy hike at Sasquatch Provincial Park. For campers staying at one of the campgrounds near there, it’s an ideal place for an enjoyable stroll or a cool swim. This summer trail is on flat, gentle terrain with very little elevation gain and is lined with wild berry patches. This is a soothing hike along very scenic and interesting terrain, a good place to relax in nature. However, there is one fly in the ointment: mosquitoes are the only drawback to this otherwise fun little adventure.

Location: Hick’s Lake Rd, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0, Canada
Best Time To Visit: April to October

2. Sasquatch Provincial Park

The beautiful view of the Sasquatch Provincial Park by the Harrison Hot Spring is a bright day.

Photo: mmmmngai@rogers / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Sasquatch Provincial Park is located north of Harrison Hot Springs and features quiet pocket lakes, mixed second-growth forests, birch woodlands, and very dramatic mountain views. Both Hicks Lake and Deer Lake allow motor boating and canoeing while Trout Lake offers a peaceful fishing atmosphere. Visitors can camp, hike, watch wildlife, and have a picnic in this park due to the various outdoor activities it offers. From landscapes to recreational activities, it provides a thrilling rest in the heart of British Columbia’s backcountry.

Location: Rockwell Dr, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1A0, Canada
Best Time To Visit: March to October

3. Miami Bridges Walk

An image of the sidewalk of the Harrison hot spring is a famous place near British Columbia.

Photo: Averette / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

For nature lovers, the Miami Bridges Walk is a peaceful woodland stroll. The walk begins at the front of Harrison Hot Springs Resort Hotel and leads across the Miami River bridge into a beautiful cedar forest at the base of Agassiz Mountain. Distributed with historic lamp posts and about nine very quaint bridges- many with stairs- the trail leads to scenic views along the lake. It curves back after about 400 metres, passing by the source of the hot springs. The walk is beautiful, for a great family outing or a peaceful retreat from crowds.

Location: Back of parking lot 7 of the Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa
Timings: February to October

4. Harrison Hot Springs Public Mineral Pool

An image of the Harrison Hot Springs Public Mineral Pool in 1950, people enjoy and chilling.

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Harrison Hot Springs Resort offers guests five unique mineral pools with different temperatures in which to relax and absorb the healing properties of the natural hot springs. For centuries, the Coast Salish have revered these healing hot springs; such is their reputation that Clark Gable, John Wayne, and Michael Bublé have all frequented the resort. Whether you float, play, or soak in or out, there is a pool for every mood. Privately registered guests have access to a wristband that grants them special entrance, and the ambiance is peaceful yet refreshing where nature awaits at every step.

Location: 101 Hot Springs Rd, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0, Canada
Timings: Year round

5. Canwest Art Gallery On The Lake

An image of the art gallery, the best place near British Columbia, and people visiting to see various art pieces in the museum.

Photo: Stephen Craven / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Canwest Art Gallery on the Lake is a must-visit destination for art lovers, offering a curated collection of work from around forty talented Canadian artisans. The gallery proudly features Errol Brimacombe’s captivating watercolour impressions, Eric Sevigny’s vibrant contemporary acrylics, Maxwell Newhouse’s charming Folk Art, Thomas Schultz’s stunning bronze animal sculptures, Holly McKeen’s delicate crystalline pottery, and Robert Andrews’ beautifully crafted wooden boxes. Each piece tells a unique story, inviting visitors to explore and connect with the diverse artistry on display in this picturesque lakeside setting.

Location: Beside Harrison Beach Hotel, 160 Esplanade Ave Unit C, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0, Canada
Timings: 11 PM – 4 PM

Where To Stay

An image of a luxury bedroom with a white bedsheet best place near in British Columbia to relax.

Photo: Anonymous / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Harrison Hot Springs Resort offers a variety of spacious accommodations perfect for a peaceful couple’s retreat or a cosy family getaway. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic weekend in a charming cottage or a room with stunning lake views, the resort has something to suit every need. Guests can unwind in well-appointed rooms and villas, all just steps away from the soothing hot springs pools. With its serene atmosphere and luxurious amenities, it’s the ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Where To Eat

A fine dining setting with wine glasses and beige table cloth showing the availability of a comfortable dining space for visitors.

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Harrison Hot Springs Resort offers four restaurants with truly unique eating experiences. The upscale dinner and live entertainment location is known as the Copper Room. Lakeside Café is a family-friendly venue with Lake views and serves breakfast and dinner. Miss Margaret’s Café is a quick stop that offers Starbucks coffee, breakfast items, and snacks. Islands Bar in the lobby and the outdoor patio serves casual fare with cocktails, wine, and beer. All the choices offer a different experience to be shared with those visiting.

Other Things To Consider

An amazing aerial view image of the Harrison Hot Springs along with the city.

Photo: Francesco Ungaro / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Average Trip Cost

The average price of a trip to Harrison Hot Springs varies according to many conditions. A 3-star hotel charges around $124(INR 7494.12) per night. Travelling is possible with a rental car from Vancouver, which is 96 km away, and fuel costs are roughly $1.75(INR 105.76) per litre. There are a variety of options for eating, including cheaper places like The Black Forest Restaurant, as well as more expensive venues. The additional activities of a waterpark rental and jet skis contribute to the overall expense.

Tips For Travellers

Plan: Try to plan your trip ahead of time by checking attraction opening times and seasonal hours to avoid missed opportunities.
Use public transit: Hot Springs is easily accessible by foot or public transportation, making it possible to traverse without a car.
Bring comfortable shoes: There are numerous hiking trails, so comfortable footwear is required.
Reserve spa services in advance: If you want to go to the bathhouse, make a reservation.
Stay hydrated: While the thermal baths are calming, you should stay hydrated throughout your visit.

Harrison Hot Springs is an amazing getaway destination rich in natural hot springs, beautiful lakeside scenery, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether it’s a visit to the peaceful pools or an exploration of the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone. This quaint town is a perfect base for both relaxation and exploration. Plan your next vacation with TripXL and experience the best of Hot Springs today.

Cover Photo: Straitgate / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to Harrison Hot Springs from Vancouver?

The best and most preferred method of travelling from Vancouver to Harrison Hot Springs is by car, which would take around two hours, and the scenic route on Highway 7 through the Fraser Valley is just beautiful.

Are the Harrison Hot Springs open throughout the year?

Yes, Harrison Hot Springs can be visited throughout the year. The resort as well as the hot springs and other outdoor hobbies such as hiking, fishing, and boating are accessible all year round.

Can everyone access the Harrison Hot Springs Resort's hot springs?

Yes, Harrison Hot Springs Resort provides five mineral pools for the entry of guests and day-use patrons. Guests can just soak in these pools for relaxation purposes. The temperature settings are also varied.

What outdoor activities are available in and around Harrison Hot Springs?

Outdoor activities may range from hiking and camping to canoeing and motor-boating, fishing, and watching wildlife; beautiful trails abound in Sasquatch Provincial Park and the lakes surrounding it, such as Hicks Lake, while peace-seekers find Trout Lake an ideal spot for fishing.

Is it okay to wear jewellery in a hot spring?

Since the minerals in the water might tarnish or damage jewellery, it is better to avoid wearing it in hot springs.

Relax And Rejuvenate At Harrison Hot Springs: A Natural Oasis In British Columbia