Warm up to Harrison Hot Springs
Tucked in the Fraser Valley a couple of hours from Vancouver, B.C., Harrison Hot Springs draws visitors year-round to its lakeside beaches, mountain vistas and, of course, its soothing springs.
People find their way to the indoor and outdoor spring pools of Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa for such occasions as holiday celebrations, weddings, and family reunions. Situated on the shore of Harrison Lake, the resort is a destination for relaxation and adventure where people soak in the mineral pools and allow themselves to be pampered with some of the many spa treatments available.
When they aren’t reveling in the amenities of the resort, visitors can hike through the fall foliage, take a boat out from the marina, play a round or two of golf, reel in a fish, or shop till they drop. But with winter coming on, the healing hot water is likely to have the top spot on every visitor’s agenda.
Getting there
On Interstate 5 in Bellingham, take exit 256A and follow Guide Meridian north to Lynden. Turn east and follow the signs to Sumas and the border. After crossing the border, watch for Highway 1 east, then follow the highway past Chilliwack to exit 135 and follow the signs for Harrison Hot Springs.
Where to stay
Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa
The resort is the main destination for most tourists to the area. Its warm mineral pools have drawn visitors since 1886.
100 Esplanade Ave., Harrison Hot Springs
604-796-2244
Bungalow Motel
If a resort is a bit more than you’re looking for, the 12 cabins at Bungalow Motel sit on the shore of Harrison Lake. Units have mini refrigerators and grill facilities, and an ice cream and coffee bar on-site.
511 Lillooet Ave., Harrison Hot Springs
604-796-3536
Harrison Beach Hotel
The hotel is pet-friendly and specializes in comfort, with cozy fireplaces, luxury amenities, and a location close to the natural hot springs.
160 Esplanade Ave., Harrison Hot Springs
866-338-8111
Where to eat and drink
The Black Forest Restaurant
German and European fare is the specialty, with shrimp- and crab-topped mushroom caps, goulash soup, and several schnitzels on the menu.
180 Esplanade Ave., Harrison Hot Springs
604-796-9343
Old Settler Pub
The pub serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a rich variety of dishes, including noodle bowls, taco salad and flatbread pizzas, in addition to pub-style sandwiches.
222 Cedar Ave., Harrison Hot Springs
604-796-9722
Red Fort Restaurant
The restaurant features casual family dining with a global mix of foods, from Italian to Bavarian to Cajun, all with a spectacular view on the strip in Harrison Hot Springs.
234 Esplanade Ave., Harrison Hot Springs
604-491-5678
Islands Bar
Located in the Harrison Hot Springs Resort, the bar features high-top tables, flat-screen TVs and a large selection of B.C. beers and wines.
100 Esplanade Ave., Harrison Hot Springs
604-796-2244
What to see and do
Harrison Hot Springs Public Pool
In addition to the resort’s springs, the area has several others. The Public Pool at the intersection of Hot Springs Road and the Esplanade Avenue is open to all visitors to the village. Other public springs in the area include Radium Hot Springs, Halcyon Hot Springs, Nakusp Hot Springs, and Fairmont Hot Springs.
101 Hot Springs Road, Harrison Hot Springs
tourismharrison.com/Hot-Springs
604-796-2244
Kilby Historic Site
Costumed interpreters guide you through 1920s Fraser Valley history at this heritage and museum attraction.
215 Kilby Road, Harrison Mills
604-796-9576
Sasquatch Country Adventures
Take a tour of sasquatch territory with a knowledgeable guide to tell you why the legendary creature has been elusive for so many years, with eyewitness testimony and eye-opening scenery.
sasquatchcountryadventures.com
604-796-5570
On the way
Whatcom County travelers may want to stop in the town of Mission on their way to or from Harrison Hot Springs. About an hour east of Vancouver, Mission sits on a hill above the Fraser River and is known for its salmon and sturgeon fishing.
Mission’s art community is vibrant, with the Mission Arts Council in a restored 1920s home. Other heritage sites include the Powerhouse at Stave Falls, and Fraser River Heritage Park.
Diamond Head Motor Inn
Within walking distance of shopping and restaurants, the motel is in downtown Mission.
32550 Logan Ave., Mission
604-826-8144
Mission Springs Brewing Co.
Featuring gourmet burgers and pizza, the brewery has an extensive line of craft brews to pair with any meal.
7160 Oliver St., Mission
604-820-1009
Fraser River Safari
Take a boat tour to experience the B.C. wilderness as you travel the river channel from Mission to Harrison Mills.
7057 Mershon St., Mission
604-826-7361
This story was originally published November 12, 2015 at 11:02 PM with the headline "Warm up to Harrison Hot Springs."