Harrison Hot Springs

## Overview Harrison Hot Springs is a celebrated hot springs destination nestled on the southern shore of Harrison Lake in British Columbia's Fraser Valley. The area has a long history of use by the Sts'ailes (Chehalis) and other Coast Salish First Nations peoples, who are believed to have visited these geothermal waters for centuries, valuing them for their reported healing and rejuvenating properties. The hot springs were said to help treat ailments and restore vitality — a tradition that continues today as thousands of visitors flock to the area each year seeking relaxation and wellness. The natural thermal water originates from two main spring sources — the Potash Spring and the Sulphur Spring — which emerge at temperatures reportedly reaching up to 140°F (60°C). The mineral-rich water is piped to the Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa, where it feeds several pools at varying temperatures. The resort, which has operated in some form since the late 1800s, remains the primary way to experience the hot springs in a developed setting. Harrison Hot Springs sits at the edge of Harrison Lake, the largest lake in the southern Coast Mountains, surrounded by dramatic peaks and lush temperate rainforest. The combination of geothermal waters and spectacular mountain scenery makes this one of British Columbia's most iconic resort destinations. ## Directions 1. **From Vancouver (approximately 90 minutes):** Head east on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) toward Chilliwack. 2. Take **Exit 135** for Highway 9 North, following signs for Harrison Hot Springs / Agassiz. 3. Drive north on Highway 9 through the town of Agassiz for approximately 6 km (3.7 miles). 4. Follow the road as it curves left and becomes Hot Springs Road, leading directly into the village of Harrison Hot Springs. 5. The Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa is located at the end of the road on the lakefront at **100 Esplanade Avenue, Harrison Hot Springs, BC V0M 1K0**. 6. GPS coordinates: **49.2966, -121.8048**. Parking is available at the resort and in the village. During peak summer weekends, the village can get busy, so arriving early is recommended. ## What to Expect ### The Hot Spring Pools The Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa offers five distinct pools fed by natural thermal mineral water, each maintained at a different temperature to suit various preferences: - **Indoor Pool** — A heated swimming pool inside the spa resort, ideal for relaxing after spa treatments. Open 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM. Temperature: approximately 94°F (34°C). - **Indoor Hot Pool** — A warmer soaking pool with a waterfall feature and rising steam that creates an atmospheric, almost outdoor feel. Open 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM. Temperature: approximately 104°F (40°C). - **Family Public Pool** — The resort's signature pool and Harrison's most well-known hot spring experience. This expansive pool covers over 4,000 square feet and is surrounded by waterfalls and lush vegetation. Open 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Temperature: approximately 92°F (33°C). - **Lap Pool** — A cooler pool designed for swimming and exercise, set amid the resort's scenic grounds. Open 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Temperature: approximately 83°F (28°C). - **Adult Hot Pool** — An adults-only soaking pool offering a quieter, more serene experience. Open 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM. Temperature: approximately 98°F (37°C). All five pools are available to resort guests. Day-use access and pricing may vary — it's best to check directly with the resort for current rates and availability. ### Spa & Wellness The resort's full-service spa offers a wide range of treatments including private massages, body wraps, manicures, pedicures, waxing, and natural beauty treatments. The combination of mineral-rich thermal water and professional spa services draws visitors from across Canada and internationally. ### Harrison Lake & Outdoor Activities Harrison Lake stretches over 60 km (37 miles) into the Coast Mountains and is a major recreational hub. Popular activities include swimming, jet skiing, fishing, kayaking, and boating. The lake and surrounding area offer stunning views, especially in winter when the surrounding peaks — including Black Tusk Mountain and Fraser Peak — are capped with snow. A public beach and playground area sit just steps from the resort, featuring swings, slides, and play equipment suitable for families. ### Harrison Water Park During summer months, the Harrison Water Park operates on the lake with inflatable structures and water play features. - **Hours:** 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM - **Full-day admission:** $35 (all ages) - **Late entry (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM):** $21 (all ages) - Life jackets are required. Children must be 6 years or older to use the water park, and children aged 6–10 must be accompanied by a supervising adult. Lifeguards are on duty during operating hours. *Note: Pricing and hours are subject to change — confirm details before visiting.* ### Camping & Accommodation For those who prefer to stay outside the resort, the Harrison Hot Springs area offers a variety of camping options including tent sites on the beach and in forested areas, RV parks, and cabin rentals in secluded settings. Several campgrounds are located within a short drive of the village. The surrounding region also features an extensive network of hiking trails ranging from easy one-hour walks to challenging full-day hikes leading to high alpine viewpoints. Renting a car is recommended if you're flying into Vancouver, as it allows you to explore the broader Fraser Valley and Sea-to-Sky regions during your trip. ### Seasonal Notes Harrison Hot Springs is a year-round destination. Summer brings the warmest weather, the water park, and peak lake activity. Winter offers a quieter, more atmospheric experience — soaking in steaming thermal pools with snow-capped mountains as a backdrop is a highlight of the colder months. Fall brings beautiful foliage, and spring sees the return of migratory birds to the lake.