Meagen SetterHarrison Hot Springs Guide: Fraser Valley’s Ultimate Vacation Spot
Harrison Hot Springs may just be one of the most gorgeous and relaxing spots in the Fraser Valley, and it’s no secret either. But despite having so many visitors, we’re here to tell you that it has remained as pristine as ever.
Each time we drop by this place for a getaway, we’re constantly in awe of how worth it the drive is to get here. So, if you’re planning a trip to this renowned resort town, keep reading because we’ve put together the ultimate Harrison Hot Springs guide.
Is Harrison Hot Springs worth visiting?
Harrison Hot Springs is definitely worth visiting any time of the year. This famous resort town in the Fraser Valley provides scenic mountain views, sandy beaches, a large lake, and, of course, mineral hot springs.
Visitors are also able to go on forest hikes on the many trails surrounding the town, marvel at majestic waterfalls, and visit the Harrison WaterSports and Waterpark.
Harrison Hot Springs offers so many cool adventures that’ll get you exploring the mountains, cruising over lakes, and soaking up BC’s stunning scenery.
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST) (UTC-8)
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Harrison Hot Springs is between April and June, when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer months (July to September).
During this time, flights and accommodations may also be less expensive because it’s not peak season.
Weather
To get a sense of when to plan your trip, take a look at this table down below. It breaks down the weather in Harrison Hot Springs month by month, so you can figure out if it fits your preferences and plans.
As you can see, the months of January to March are cooler, with temperatures ranging from -14°C to -1°C. However, if you enjoy winter activities such as skiing or snowboarding, this could be the perfect time to visit Harrison Hot Springs.
Data from Time Travella via https://www.timetravella.com/
If warmer temperatures are more your thing, then June to August would be ideal. During this time, the average temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or swimming in the lake.
Things to Know
Entrance Fees at Harrison Hot Springs
If you’re planning to stay at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort, you can enjoy complimentary use of all the pools. However, if you only want access to the public hot springs pool, here are the admission rates:
But hey! If you’re a local, you can get discounted rates on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Just make sure to bring proof of residence and present it at the front desk.
Parking Situation at Harrison Hot Springs
Harrison Hot Springs have pay parking spaces along Esplanade Avenue, Alice Street, and Spruce Street. Take note that the maximum hour parking here at Harrison Hot Springs is 4 hours. Take a look at the table below for parking rates:
All of these parking spaces feature EV charging stations, which cost between $2 and $7 per hour. You must pay through the Parkedin mobile payment app because you cannot pay at the meters.
If you’re looking to snag free parking, head over to Lillooet Avenue east of Hot Springs Road. However, do note that slots are limited so expect competition for parking spaces during peak times.
Pool Situation at Harrison Hot Springs
Harrison Hot Springs has five different hot spring pools, each set at different temperatures.
- Indoor Pool: tucked away in the peaceful spa building, this crescent-shaped pool hovers around 32 – 35°C.
- Indoor Hot Pool: also in the quiet zone, which clocks in at about 38 – 40°C. It’s got a nifty glass waterfall that cascades down the walls and wooden rafters.
- Outdoor Family Pool: sits at 33°C, and it has sloped entrance for little ones and wheelchair accessibility, along with ledge-style seating.
- Outdoor Lap Pool: long, outdoor lap pool set at 28°C. Ideal for aerobic swimming.
- Adult Pool: set at 37°C, exclusively for grown-ups. It’s got this cool underwater seating ledge that goes all around the pool.
How to Get to Harrison Hot Springs
From Vancouver: Head over to the Trans Canada Highway and take the 135 exit. From there, follow the signs to Harrison Hot Springs. But if you’re up for a more scenic route, you can take Highway 7 past Mission and follow the signs to Harrison Hot Springs.
From Vancouver International Airport (YVR): Drive towards Highway 99 south to Highway 10 and head to Highway 1 east to hope. Then, keep driving on Highway 1 to Exit 135 and follow the signs to Harrison Hot Springs.
By Bus: You can take public transportation to Harrison Hot Springs by Greyhound or the new Fraser Valley Regional Express 66 FVX.
Places to Stay in Harrison Hot Springs
Harrison Hot Springs Resort
Address: 100 Esplanade Avenue, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0
Phone: 604-796-4746
Pricing: $$$
The Harrison Hot Springs Resort seems to have it all— spacious rooms with balconies, on-site dining, a spa and beauty salon, a gym, and a breeze to get to those five mineral hot spring pools.
There’s a neat heritage aspect to the resort, and tons of ways to soak up the hotel’s story and the local history. Want an insider tip? Don’t miss the breakfast buffet at the Lakeside Cafe restaurant.
Bramblebank Cottages
Address: 312 Lillooet Rd, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-796-9552
Pricing: $$
Right in the center of Harrison Hot Springs, chilling at Bramblebank Cottages is basically like having your own cozy hideout. Picture snug cabins in the midst of mountains, lakes, and rivers – it’s like a secluded paradise.
You can’t really top the location either; it’s just one block from Harrison Lake, sandy beaches, eateries, hiking paths, and the public hot springs mineral pool.
Harrison Beach Hotel
Address: 160 Esplanade Ave Unit C, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-796-1111
Pricing: $$
Across from Harrison Beach, this boutique-style hotel boasts lavish suites with modern amenities and killer waterfront views. Rooms come with central AC and fully loaded kitchenettes for all your convenience needs.
Indoors, you’ve got a sweet indoor pool and a chill outdoor hot tub with killer mountain views. And hey, don’t skip a visit to Morgan’s Restaurant – it’s right there, conveniently attached to this top-notch hotel.
Harrison Lake View Suites
Address: 298 Lillooet Rd, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0X 1L0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-491-0014
Pricing: $$
Set against the stunning Coast Mountains, everything seems to be a short walk away from this apartment-style hotel. Harrison Lake is a mere six-minute stroll away, Harrison Hot Springs Marina is a casual 14-minute walk, and Sandy Cove Beach is just 1 km down the road.
All rooms here at Harrison Lake View Suites have a full kitchen and fireplace, and rooftop access. Oh, and just a quick 3-minute jaunt from this hotel, you’ll find the Living Room Boutique & Spa, where they’ve got massages and nail treatments.
The Lodge on Harrison Lake
Address: 6155 Rockwell Dr, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-819-5374
Pricing: $$$
If you’re looking for utmost privacy, the Lodge on Harrison Lake is the way to go. This place is the epitome of seclusion, tucked away with its own private beach.
This place offers four different options for staying, with the Main Residence, Carriage House, cabins, and guest suites – and they all come with breathtaking, straight-up lake views. There’s also a wood barrel sauna available for guests to relax in.
Places to Eat in Harrison Hot Springs
Harrison Corner Cafe
Address: 310 Hot Springs Rd, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-491-4429
Pricing: $$
This cozy spot along Hot Springs Road definitely knows how to make good breakfast food. Here, they’ve got all the classics, from french toast, eggs benny, pancakes, bagels, and bacon.
They’ve also got a killer drink lineup, from your regular drip coffee to some fancy caramel brews. And if you’re feeling a bit fancy in the morning, they even do mimosa cocktails.
Basecamp Burger Joint
Address: 140 Esplanade Ave, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-491-3368
Pricing: $$
If you’re looking for a grub spot before you venture around, this burger place is the bomb. Grab yourself a double beef cheeseburger and a cold brewski, then kick back and soak in the waterfront vibes over at Harrison Lake Beach.
Muddy Waters Cafe
Address: 328 Esplanade Ave, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-796-5563
Pricing: $$
If you truly want to feel like you’re on a getaway, dine at the Muddy Waters Cafe, where you’re served farm-to-table food with views of gorgeous mountains and sandy beaches.
Try to grab a seat at their outdoor patio as you enjoy your tea and your toast. And here’s the lowdown: you’ve gotta try their burgers. Whether it’s the black bean, crab, bison, or rib steak – take your pick.
Maison D’ la, Poutine House.
Address: 196 Esplanade Ave #112A, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-424-4185
Pricing: $
Poutines here at Maison D’ la, Poutine House are as customizable as it gets, with almost all the toppings and sauces you can imagine. And yes, they’re also able to whip up vegan and gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.
Don’t forget to grab a soda or even a milkshake to go with your poutine, especially as it tends to get pretty salty towards the end.
Chantilly Gelato & Cafe
Address: 234 Esplanade Ave, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-491-2001
Pricing: $
Sweet lovers out there will definitely enjoy the 52 flavors of authentic gelato, ice cream, and sorbet here at Chantilly Gelato & Cafe. Everything on the menu is super creamy and flavorful, scoops are really generous too.
Our top pick? Gotta go with the double shot espresso and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s guaranteed to be a refreshing awakener.
Places to Go to between Vancouver and Harrison Hot Springs
Visit the Tynehead Regional Park
Address: 16689 96 Ave, Surrey, BC V4N 6G8, Canada
Phone: +1 604-530-4983
Take Exit 50 or 53 from Trans-Canada Hwy and take a right onto 96 Avenue to get to this tranquil park with trails by the Serpentine River. It’s quite the perfect stopover if you’re looking to relax before a long drive.
This park’s a gem with picnic spots, lush greenery, and a dog park for your furry pals to roam. Don’t miss the Tynehead Fish Hatchery, where they breed chum and salmon and release them into the Serpentine River.
Say Hi to the Animals at Greater Vancouver Zoo
Address: 5048 264 St, Aldergrove, BC V4W 1N7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-856-6825
While on the Trans-Canada Hwy, take exit 73 and follow the signs for the Greater Vancouver Zoo. There are over 180 animals here, and just a heads up: most animals are in large enclosures, so you’d have to do a lot of walking to see all of ’em.
Here, you’ll see lions, hippos, zebras, monkeys, and a selection of BC native creatures like cougars, mountain goats, and grizzlies. Kids will also enjoy the miniature train and Birds of Prey show.
Have Some Fun at Castle Fun Park
Address: 36165 N Parallel Rd, Abbotsford, BC V3G 2K8, Canada
Phone: +1 604-850-0411
Here’s a great stop with the kids to take a break from the drive. Take Exit 95 on the Trans-Canada Hwy to this fun-filled amusement park. The mini golf fields here are the main attractions, with both indoor and outdoor courses.
There’s also go-karts, a two-floor modern arcade zone, laser mazes, and bumper cars. Oh, and it might be a good idea to fill up on gas before you leave, as stations near Castle Fun Park have a lower price per liter compared to those nearer to town.
Hangout at Errock Lake
Address: Errock, Lake, Fraser Valley, BC V0M 1N0, Canada
If you’re taking the scenic route, which is Hwy 7, from Vancouver to Harrison Hot Springs, you’ll find this quirky little hangout spot at Harrison Bay Road.
Lake Errock is a nice little slice of paradise between Mission and Agassiz. You can swim and fish for pike minnow and trout while soaking in the abundant wildlife and natural beauty.
Drop by the Kilby Historic Site in Harrison Mills
Address: 215 Kilby Rd, Harrison Mills, BC V0M 1L0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-796-9576
On Hwy 7, drive towards School Road in Harrison Mills and follow signs for the Kilby Historic Site. Here, you’ll get to learn about the town’s history and explore the five-acre heritage site. Everything about this place screams of rich history.
You’ll get to participate in historic demonstrations, interact with the locals, and maybe grab lunch at the Kilby Cafe, a quaint home-style spot with 1920s music and an extensive soup and sandwich menu.
Apps to Download for a Trip to Harrison Hot Springs
Transit • Bus & Train Times: real-time transit schedules in BC that provides bus tracking, stop alerts, directions, and alternate routes.
Maps.me: free, detailed offline maps with turn-by-turn navigation for driving, hiking, or biking.
GasBuddy: locates nearby gas stations in Canada and shows prices, hike alerts, and gas deals.
Passport Parking Canada: lets you pay for parking on the go using your phone.
