The Sts’ailes First Nations and Coast Salish people called this area "Healing Place." The thermal waters here have long eased tired muscles and drawn visitors, but European settlers discovered them in the mid-19th century. Harrison Hot Springs has been a resort destination ever since railway expansion in 1885. There's more to the village than its name might suggest, so if you're not one of the many enamored by nature-heated H2O, you can still have a refreshing outdoorsy getaway with stunning landscapes and agritourism attractions.
The Harrison Hot Springs pool recently underwent a renovation, so it's looking neater than ever. Sink into blissful heat on a cold winter's day or soak up the therapeutic properties of the mineral-rich waters during summer. You can expect a family-friendly, relaxed environment with huge windows providing lovely lake and mountain views from the chairs. The pool is sloped, so you can go as deep as you like, and it's recommended that you take a break from the hot water every 10 minutes.
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Your trip to Sasquatch Provincial Park will begin with a bumpy ride on a pothole-riddled gravel road, but the scenery at your destination makes up for it. Sasquatch Provincial Park's campsite is short on privacy and lacks showers, flushable toilets, and cell service, but if you're aware of that before you go, you'll have a great time unplugging. The facilities are well-maintained, and between the two beautiful lakes and rocky beach, you can fit in some real R&R. Go on forest hikes, take to the water on a kayak, chill on a boat, have a picnic, and see how many different kinds of wildlife you can spot. Be sure to look out for swimmer's itch signs and rinse off after a dip.
Spend a leisurely day at Harrison Lake's white sandy beaches and pleasant parks. After frolicking at the children's playground and lagoon, testing out the outdoor gym, or taking your leashed fur baby for a walk, willows provide a welcome reprieve from the sun. The waters of this glacial lake can get quite cold, so bear that in mind and ensure you wear a personal flotation device for your safety.
Harrison Hot Springs' dining scene is diverse and delicious and includes cozy cafes and fancier fare. While you'll often have to pay resort area prices, a few places like John's Fish and Chips and Pho Ho hit the spot without making patrons fork out too much. Black Forest Steak & Schnitzel and Morgan's Bistro are great choices for a substantial lunch and dinner. You'll find a yummy farm-to-table breakfast, burgers, and baked goods at the popular Muddy Waters Cafe. Try the brie with sliced pear or duck breast with blackberry mayo. Over at Village Pizzeria, the spicy Thai pizza is full of flavor, and you can down salmon souvlaki while savoring the patio views at Milo's Greek Taverna. You'll also get satisfying Mexican food at Taco Rio and vegan curry options at the Royal King Indian Restaurant.
Visit local farms, artisan food producers, museums, and wineries on the Agassiz/Harrison Circle Farm Tour. On this self-guided route, you can meander to the attractions that interest you the most and glean insights into the region's agricultural heritage. Purchase fresh produce, souvenirs, and gifts, and sample seasonal delicacies at the local eateries. Inhale the calming scent of lavender at Harrison Lavender, and get acquainted with cute animals at Creekside Cheese + Creamery, or attend a flower festival.
You'll find several hiking trails for different skill levels around Harrison Hot Springs. If you've got young kids with you, the Spirit Trail is a quick walk through a cedar forest that's under a mile long but features clay masks created by local artists. The Heritage Walk is an easy 3-mile stroll with historical buildings in the mix. For a moderate hike, you'll love the hikes near Lower Bear Mountain that pass meadows and streams. Harrison Grind is a more challenging trail, which should take you six hours. Its varying terrain makes for a highly rewarding amble, and the same can be said for the hike at Mount Cheam.
The Healing Springs Spa at Harrison Resort is perfect when you want to treat yourself to a thoroughly restful morning or afternoon. Revel in the tactile joys of a massage, facial, body wrap, or thermal treatment. Or splurge on a spa package that incorporates multiple restorative elements inspired by the special waters of this region. Enter a bubble of serenity and soothing music. Your body will appreciate the nurturing hands of experienced therapists, and you'll leave feeling blissed out and ready to take on your next adventure.
Harrison Lake will keep you and your travel companions busy for hours on the water. Watch the windsurfers control a gust or get stuck in yourself. You can go stand-up paddleboarding or fishing or unleash your inner child at the Harrison WaterSports and Waterpark. It's such a blast and gets very busy, so go early for the best experience. Hiring a wetsuit will definitely help you feel more comfortable if you're less tolerant of cold water.
Check out the Ruby Creek Art Gallery for some fine works by Northwest First Nations artists. The Ranger Station Gallery has two rooms of art to peruse, and the Canwest Art Gallery on the Lake next to Harrison Beach Hotel features the creativity of dozens of local artisans and is wheelchair-friendly. You can see bronze animal sculptures, watercolor impressions, acrylic paintings, pottery, glass creations, and wooden crafts.
Fishing is therapy, so it's a good thing that the Fraser Valley offers year-round sessions in what is arguably heaven for anglers. Book a guided fishing trip with BC Sport Fishing Group for a convenient charter and knowledgeable guides. You can catch legendary white sturgeon that are older than your great-great grandma and the five different species of Pacific salmon or go fly fishing for trout.
Keen on a half-day trip beyond Harrison Hot Springs? Venture to the must-see Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park. The cascades are mesmerizing, and you can reach them after a mere 10-minute hike. When you're done gaping at the appropriately named waterfall, you can pop your feet in the water for a cool-down.
Harrison Hot Springs Resort dates back to 1886. It has 5 natural pools fed by hot springs, and the rejuvenating waters have attracted illustrious guests like Clark Gable, Michael Bublé, and Liam Neeson over the years. Harrison Beach Hotel is more modern, as are some of the cozy Airbnbs in the area. You can also opt to go camping or bring your RV along.
The Harrison Festival of the Arts is a 10-day annual summer extravaganza that's been a part of local life for close to half a century. It comprises a market full of handmade goods and moreish food, educational workshops, and some fantastic live music performances. In spring, you can look forward to the Harrison Tulip Festival. There's also the delightful Harrison Sunflower Festival and the Harrison Pumpkin Festival on the calendar.
Get the lowdown on Bigfoot at the Harrison Visitor Information Centre and Sasquatch Museum. If you're on the fence, the curated artifacts and witness accounts may just convince you that this renowned and elusive creature is out and about nearby. Grab some merch from the gift shop, keep your eyes peeled, and you may end up contributing to the museum, too.
There's lots of fun to be had at Sasquatch Mountain Resort throughout the year. In winter, there's powder galore, and skiing and snowboarding are at the top of the agenda. In summer, ziplining and mountain biking will get your pulse racing in the best way possible. Tubing is another favorite activity here, and you'll be whisked up the mountain for repeats. There aren't too many dining options, so plan accordingly.