Harrison Hot Springs Day Trip: Quick Facts
Get a bird’s-eye view of your day trip before diving into the details. Here’s everything you need to know at a glance.
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Vancouver | ~130 km (80 miles) |
| Driving Time | 90 minutes – 2 hours (one way, traffic dependent) |
| Best Time to Visit in 2025 | Year-round! Summer for lake fun, Winter for cozy soaks. |
| Est. Day Trip Cost | $75 – $150 per person (see budget breakdown below) |
| Main Attraction | The Public Hot Springs Mineral Pool |
How to Get to Harrison Hot Springs from Vancouver
Escaping the city for the healing waters of Harrison is easier than you think. Whether you have a car or are relying on public transit, we’ve got you covered with the best routes to get you soaking in no time.
By Car (The Easiest Route)
Driving is the most direct and convenient way to reach Harrison Hot Springs. The journey itself is scenic, taking you through the lush Fraser Valley. Here’s the simple route:
- Head east from Vancouver on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1).
- Continue for about 100-110 km until you reach Exit 135 for Agassiz/Harrison Hot Springs.
- Take the exit and follow Highway 9 North for approximately 15 minutes, which leads you directly into the heart of the village.
Pro Tip: While the drive is typically 90 minutes, weekend and holiday traffic can easily push it to 2 hours or more. Always check Google Maps for real-time traffic before you leave! Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of paid street parking and several pay lots. On a busy summer weekend, arriving before 11 AM is key to snagging a good spot.
Without a Car from Vancouver (It’s Possible!)
Don’t have a car? No problem! While there isn’t a direct bus or train, a day trip is still achievable with a bit of planning. Think of it as part of the adventure.
- Get to Langley: From Vancouver, take the SkyTrain or a Translink bus to Carvolth Exchange in Langley. The most common route is taking the Expo Line SkyTrain to Lougheed Town Centre Station and then a connecting bus.
- Ride the Fraser Valley Express: At Carvolth Exchange, board the BC Transit Bus #66 (FVX). This comfortable coach-style bus will take you on a scenic 60-90 minute ride to the Chilliwack Downtown Exchange.
- The Final Leg: From Chilliwack, the final 30-40 minute drive to Harrison requires a taxi or a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Expect this portion to cost approximately $50-$70 one way.
Alternatively, for a completely stress-free experience, several tour companies in Vancouver offer guided day trips that handle all the transportation for you.
Transportation Options at a Glance
| Method | Total Time (One Way) | Approx. Cost (Round Trip) | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving (Personal Car) | 1.5 – 2 hours | $30-$40 (gas) + Parking | High |
| Public Transit + Taxi | 3 – 4 hours | $80-$120 (transit + taxi) | Low |
| Guided Tour | 2 – 2.5 hours | $100 – $180+ per person | Very High |
How to Spend a Day in Harrison Hot Springs: Top 5 Things to Do
You’ve arrived! The mountain air is fresh, and the lake is sparkling. Here are the top five unmissable experiences to make your day trip perfect.
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Soak in the Public Hot Springs Mineral Pool
This is the main event! The Harrison Hot Springs Public Pool is your ticket to experiencing the legendary healing waters. Rich in minerals like potash and soda, the water is cooled from its natural scorching temperature to a blissful 38°C (100°F). Crucial note: This pool is separate from the five pools reserved for guests of the Harrison Hot Springs Resort. It’s highly recommended to book your 2-hour time slot online in advance, as it often sells out. Admission is around $12 for an adult.
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Stroll the Waterfront Promenade
Take a relaxing walk along the flat, accessible path that hugs the shoreline of Harrison Lake. You’ll pass sandy beaches, a picturesque pier, and beautiful gardens. Keep an eye out for the town’s famous residents: several whimsical Sasquatch statues! This iconic figure, known as Sasq’ets, is deeply rooted in the traditions of the local Sts’ailes First Nation and is a significant part of the area’s cultural heritage.
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Get Active on the Water
In the warmer months, Harrison Lake transforms into a playground. Head down to the main beach to rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or have a blast on the bumper boats. For the ultimate summer thrill, check out the massive floating water park, an inflatable obstacle course that’s fun for all ages. Rental costs for kayaks and paddleboards are typically $25-$35 per hour.
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Walk the Spirit Trail
For a touch of art and nature, take a short walk from the village to the Spirit Trail. This easy, 1 km forested loop is a beautiful cultural experience. Along the path, you’ll discover stunning masks carved directly into cedar trees by a local artist, each one telling a unique story and connecting you to the creative spirit of the region.
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Explore Sasquatch Provincial Park
If you have extra time and your own car, a quick 10-minute drive will take you to Sasquatch Provincial Park. This is a fantastic add-on for those who want more nature. The park is home to a series of beautiful, smaller lakes like Hicks Lake and Deer Lake, offering peaceful hiking trails, quiet picnic spots, and even more stunning scenery.
Sample Itinerary: Your Perfect Harrison Day Trip Schedule
Feeling overwhelmed with options? Use this simple schedule to structure your day and maximize your time.
- 9:00 AM: Leave Vancouver to get ahead of the peak traffic.
- 11:00 AM: Arrive in Harrison, find parking, and grab a coffee at Muddy Waters Cafe.
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM: Head to the Public Pool for your pre-booked 2-hour soak.
- 1:30 PM: Enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a lakeside spot like The Old Settler Pub.
- 2:30 PM: Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade and pier. Don’t forget your Sasquatch photo-op!
- 3:30 PM: Choose your afternoon adventure: a peaceful walk on the Spirit Trail or a fun hour of kayaking on the lake.
- 5:00 PM: Begin the scenic drive back to Vancouver, feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Optional Stop: If time and daylight permit on your drive home, consider a quick stop at the breathtaking Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park, located just off Highway 1.
Where to Eat: Best Restaurants in Harrison Hot Springs
From quick bites to hearty meals, the village has a surprising variety of dining options. Here are a few local favorites:
- Muddy Waters Cafe ($): Perfect for a quick coffee, fresh-baked goods, or a delicious sandwich with a beautiful lake view.
- The Old Settler Pub ($$): A cozy spot with classic pub fare, a great selection of beers on tap, and a lively, historic atmosphere.
- Black Forest Restaurant ($$): A Harrison institution famous for its authentic German cuisine, including schnitzel and spaetzle, served in a traditional Bavarian setting.
- The Green Star Cafe ($): A hidden gem offering tasty and affordable Vietnamese food like pho and banh mi.
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips & Packing List for 2025
A little preparation goes a long way. Follow these tips to ensure your day trip is smooth, fun, and stress-free.
Insider Tips for Your Visit
- Book your pool time online: This is the most important tip! The public pool has limited capacity and often sells out, especially on weekends. Booking your time slot a few days in advance is essential.
- Visit on a weekday: To avoid the biggest crowds and heaviest traffic, plan your day trip for a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday if your schedule allows.
- Bring your own towel & flip-flops: While you can rent them at the pool, you’ll save a few dollars and have a more comfortable experience by bringing your own.
- Embrace the Sasquatch: The hunt for Sasquatch statues, souvenirs, and lore is half the fun. Lean into the town’s quirky and charming identity!
- Check the events calendar: Before you go, look up the Village of Harrison Hot Springs’ event schedule. You might be lucky enough to catch the Harrison Festival of the Arts (July), Sasquatch Days (June), or the magical Lights by the Lake (Nov-Jan 2025).
What to Pack for Your Day Trip
Pack light, but pack smart. Here’s a simple checklist:
- Swimsuit
- Towel (a quick-dry one is great)
- Flip-flops or sandals for the pool deck
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the village
- A change of clothes for after your soak
- Sunscreen and sunglasses (the sun reflecting off the lake is strong!)
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Camera or smartphone to capture the memories
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
A day trip to Harrison can be done on a budget or as a more luxurious outing. Here’s what you can expect to spend (all prices in CAD and are estimates for 2025).
| Expense | Budget Estimate | Mid-Range Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Gas) | $15 | $20 |
| Parking | $5 | $10 |
| Public Pool Entry | $12 | $12 |
| Lunch & Snacks | $25 | $45 |
| Activity (e.g., Kayak) | $0 (just walk) | $30 |
| Total | ~$57 | ~$117 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you go to Harrison Hot Springs just for the day?
Yes, absolutely! Harrison is a perfect day trip destination from Vancouver. With a 90-minute to 2-hour drive, you can easily spend 4-6 hours exploring the village, soaking in the public pool, and enjoying the lake before heading home for the evening.
How to get to Harrison Hot Springs without a car from Vancouver?
While there’s no direct public transit, you can get there by taking the #66 FVX bus from Langley to Chilliwack and then a 30-minute taxi or rideshare for the final leg. For a simpler, all-inclusive option, consider booking a guided day tour that departs directly from Vancouver.
How to spend a day in Harrison Hot Springs?
A perfect day includes a 2-hour soak in the public hot springs mineral pool, a scenic walk along the waterfront to see the Sasquatch statues, a delicious lunch at a local cafe, and an afternoon activity like kayaking on the lake or walking the forested Spirit Trail.
Where to go for a day trip from Vancouver?
Harrison Hot Springs is consistently ranked one of the best day trips from Vancouver. It offers a unique combination of relaxing natural mineral hot springs, a massive freshwater lake for activities, and stunning mountain scenery, all within a two-hour drive of the city.
TL;DR: Your Harrison Hot Springs Day Trip Cheat Sheet
In a hurry? Here are the absolute must-knows:
- Book the Public Pool Online: Do this a few days in advance, or you might not get in. This is not the same as the resort’s private pools.
- Drive if You Can: It’s the fastest and most convenient way to get there. Go on a weekday to avoid traffic.
- What to Do: Soak in the pool, walk the waterfront, take a picture with a Sasquatch statue, and grab lunch at a local cafe.
- Budget: Plan for about $75-$150 per person for a full day of food, gas, parking, and activities.
