It is with great pleasure that all of us at Tourism Harrison River Valley welcome you to experience our great region. This free guide has been designed to give you an overview of our region and make the most of your time with us.
Share your experiences with us by tagging our social team @tourismharrison or use our hashtags #justuptheroad or #harrisonrivervalley
The Harrison River Valley region is a collective of communities spanning Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs, Harrison Mills, and all the communities in between.
This sacred land that we share is on the traditional, ancestral and shared territories of the Leq’á:mel, Samahquam, Skatin (SkookumChuck), Sts’a’íles, Sq’ewá:lxw (Skawahlook), Sq’éwqel (Seabird Island), Sq’ewlets, Xa’xtsa (Douglas), and Xwchíyò:m (Cheam) First Nations. The history and stories of this territory are deeply rooted; each story, like its community, is unique. Learn these stories by experiencing what each community has to offer.
On the traditional territory of the Sts’ailes First Nation, nestled against southwestern British Columbia’s magnificent mountains and the sandy beaches of Harrison Lake, is Harrison Village. Harrison is a hidden jewel providing ‘off the beaten path’ activities, including forest bathing, hiking, kayaking, and our world-famous BC hot springs.
Protected by the mighty Coast and Cascade Mountain ranges and the fastflowing Fraser River, Agassiz is known for its rich and fertile land that has contributed to a long-standing history of farming in the area. Agassiz and the District of Kent are located on the traditional territory of the Sq’ewqel, Shxw’owhamel, Sq’ewá:lxw, Sts’ailes and Cheam First Nations.
Harrison Mills and the Hemlock Valley are best known for their pristine, yet rugged, wilderness. From their lush forests and flowing rivers to their mountain peaks and ski hills. This region is located on the traditional territory of the Sts’ailes, Sq’ewlets, Leq’a:mel, Xax’tsa, Samahquam, and Skatin First Nations.
Your 4-season destination, Hemlock Valley is located on the traditional territory of Sts’ailes, and is home to Sasquatch Mountain Resort. Enjoy year-round activities including skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, summer hiking, disc golf, and for the adventurous at heartthe aerial park.
Interesting facts about the Harrison River Valley
• The Circle Farm Tour program was formed in partnership by the local businesses and the District of Kent for Agassiz and Harrison Mills. The original intent of this program was to encourage the development of a strong vibrant agritourism sector in the Fraser Valley- which still stands true today.
• Harrison Hot Springs is famous for its healing hot springs and is also a world famous centre for Sasquatch activity and investigation. Learn more at our Sasquatch Museum located in the Visitor Centre.
• Harrison Lake is 60 km long and 279 meters at its deepest. Glacier-fed and ice-cold year round, this lake is sparsely populated and boaters are urged to stay tuned to VHF Channel 68.
• Thanks to its pristine water, the Harrison River is the first salmon stronghold and contains all 5 species of salmon.
• Our local sturgeon can grow over 14 ft in length and weigh in excess of 1,500 pounds.
• Harrison Mills is a mecca for bald eagles. Each fall up to 10,000 eagles return to feast on the spawning salmon making our region home to the world’s largest winter bald eagle gathering.
Harrison Lake is the largest lake in southwestern BC. The lake is glacier-fed and about 60 km long and 9 km wide at its widest point covering approximately 250 square kilometers.
While it is now a freshwater lake, thousands of years ago it was not a lake at all, but an arm of the sea. It varies in depth from just a few feet to the maximum depth of 279 m (916 ft). It supports a rich biodiversity of both seasonal and permanent animal species including: Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, Pink, Chum, Coho, Sockeye, and Chinook Salmon, Sturgeon, Harbour Seals, Canadian Geese, Great Blue Heron, and numerous species of waterfowl.
Weather and water conditions play a big role in your safety on the water. Before heading out on the lake make sure you check the latest weather forecast. Harrison Lake is known for its unpredictable weather conditions and like many other Canadian lakes, water temperatures can be very cold; particularly in the spring. The effects of cold water immersion are not to be ignored and wearing a lifejacket (PFD) is essential.
Before engaging in recreational boating or water sports, make sure you’re familiar with essential boating safety practices and responsible behaviours.For more on water safety and drowning prevention, please visit BC Yukon Lifesaving Society at www.lifesaving.bc.ca
Harrison Lake is a mecca for windsport enthusiasts thanks to a predictable thermal wind that blows every summer.
As the longest lake in southwestern BC, there is plenty to explore by boat including coves and beaches, beautiful waterfalls, islands, and the Harrison River. With a public boat launch, complete with restroom and sani-station, several marinas and a large public dock, boating here is a breeze.
Sit back and let others navigate! Shoreline Tours operates the Laroan - a 56 ft boat that provides scenic tours on the lake and river. Harrison Eco Tours operates jet boat tours as well as guided kayak tours on the pristine Harrison River.
For something more adventurous on the water, try custom cruises with Fraser River Lodge or High Caliber Adventures. Discover pristine wilderness with an adrenaline rush unlike anything you’ve ever experienced! For more on the water, visit tourismharrison.com
Jump in for a refreshing dip in one of our many lakes. Check out page 21 for our top 5 swimming holes!
For a relatively safe adventure, canoe the Miami River through the Village of Harrison Hot Springs or head up to beautiful Hicks Lake. The Harrison River is an incredible outdoor wilderness trip that takes you past ancient petroglyphs and a sunken steamship. While Harrison Lake can be paddled, it can be extremely treacherous with high winds and large waves and should only be attempted by experienced paddlers. Seasonal summer rentals are available on the Resort Dock or join a guided kayaking adventure with Harrison Eco Tours.
BC SPORTFISHING GROUP
bcsportfishinggroup.com | 604-796-3345
CHAMP CHARTERS
champcharters.ca | 604-845-2489
FRASER RIVER LODGE
fraserriverlodge.com | 604-796-1210
KILBY LODGE
kilbylodge.com | 604-316-3988
The Harrison River Valley is surrounded by water making it an angler’s paradise.
The beautiful surroundings, endless rivers, streams, and lakes along with the prolific wildlife, friendly people, and great accommodation options attract anglers from around the globe. The mighty Fraser River is the main artery of millions of migrating salmon that pass through on their way to the spawning grounds. This river is home to the long-lived white sturgeon, the largest freshwater fish in North America. These monster fish grow to over one thousand pounds and can live up to 200 years. They are considered to be one of the most spectacular freshwater sports fish having the reputation for their size, strength, and impressive jumps.
The shores of Harrison Lake provide easy boat access to the pristine Harrison River, the first designated salmon stronghold in Canada. In addition to Harrison Lake and Harrison River we are close to many great fishing rivers teeming with salmon, steelhead trout, and prehistoric white sturgeon.
With so many lakes and rivers, fly fishing opportunities abound!
SCAN TO DISCOVER OUR FISHING EXCURSIONS
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If you’re inspired by nature, welcome to paradise
Every hill and valley, every trail and shoreline, is waiting to be discovered. Use our hiking guide or visit our website, www.tourismharrison.com, when deciding which trail in the Harrison River Valley is for you.
• Spirit Trail
• Hicks Lake Loop
• Sandy Cove - Whippoorwill Point
• Bear Mountain
• Campbell Lake/Harrison Grind
For winter hiking explore Sasquatch Mountain Resort. Visit www.sasquatchmountain.ca, for more on their snowshoe trails, lift, tube, trail passes, and summer activities.
BEFORE YOU GO, HERE’S SOME ADVICE FROM SEASONED HIKERS.
• Never hike alone
• Travel in groups of at least four
• Hike at the speed of the slowest member of the group
• Stay on the trail
• Keep pets on leash at all times
• Resist the temptation to collect trees, plants or flowers
• Never approach or feed bears or other wild animals
• Always pack out what you take in
• Don’t bury your trash
• Tell someone where you are going and when you will return
• Carry a cell phone or VHF radio to communicate, if possible
• Respect wildlife
RENTALS, TOURS, AND EXPERIENCES
HARRISON HOT WHEELS
Rent the iconic quadricycle in Harrison Hot Springs.
EXPLORE OUR TRAILS
SWEET TREAT TRAIL
You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy sweets, and that is pretty much the same thing!
CIRCLE FARM TOUR ROUTE
A SELF-GUIDED BIKE TOUR and the route used for the Agassiz Self-Guided Circle Farm Tour.
SLOW DOWN AND EXPLORE OUR CALM COUNTRY ROADS AND FARM FRESH EXPERIENCES IN AGASSIZ.
For the adventurous spirits, check out our trails at the Syéxw Chó:leqw Adventure Park or East Sector Lands in Harrison Hot Springs.
For more on biking visit www.tourismharrison.com
AGASSIZ SPEEDWAY
FEEL THE ROAR of the excitement and rumble of the track at the Agassiz Speedway!
MOUNTAIN BIKING
EXPLORE THE LOWER BEAR MOUNTAIN TRAILS Syéxw Chó:leqw Adventure Park or the Chilliwack Community Forest!
The Harrison River Valley features the best 27 holes of golf in the province. Warm up on the full length 9-hole Harrison Hot Springs Resort Golf Course and then top it off with the crown jewelSandpiper Golf Course. Located on the banks of the Harrison River, the Sandpiper Golf Course is beautiful and challenging; the combined 27 holes makes for the perfect day of golf.
Harrison Hot Springs Resort Golf Course
3891 Hot Springs Rd, Agassiz
604-796-9009
Par 36 | 3375 Yards | Slope 126
Rating 36.2
Sandpiper Golf Club
14282 Morris Valley Rd, Harrison Mills| 604-796-1000
Par 72 | 6500 Yards | Slope 121
Rating 70.9
Falls Golf and Country Club 8341 Nixon Rd, Chilliwack
604-745-4653
Par 71 | 6780 yards | Slope 128
Rating 72.2
Hope Golf and Country Club
900 Golf Course Rd, Hope 236-355-1114
Par 72 | 6102 Yards | Slope 116
Rating 69.9
A great activity for the whole family. Tap into your inner adventurer and explore the 4-story aerial park feature to feature.
Nestled high in the mountains above Harrison Hot Springs, Sasquatch Mountain Resort offers 4-seasons of alpine adventure. Discover summer activities for the adventurous including hiking, disc golf, and the outdoor aerial park. In the winter, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing. Located only 45 minutes from Harrison Hot Springs. Sasquatchmountain.ca
The basic premise behind rock climbing is simple, you climb from the bottom to the top! The execution is a little more complicated and we encourage you to work with experts.
Feel the need for speed? This action-packed oval track features races from May to November. Concession on site. Agassizspeedway.com
Breathe in the wild and fill your senses with the wonder of ancient forests, deep emerald lakes, and rivers that teem with life just below the surface. Walk amongst trees that have been reaching for the heavens for generations; and in the breeze listen for the echoes of indigenous spirits from time immemorial. Silent snow-capped mountains stand in graceful guard over the valley and its inhabitants. Nature has an innate ability to heal and soothe, and is a place everyone is welcome. It is the beating heart of the Harrison River Valley; and we invite you to experience it for yourself.
Eco Tours Harrison Eco Tours offers both guided jet boat and kayaking tours on the Harrison River. Experience the beauty of Harrison Lake with Shoreline Tours.
Search for the Sasquatch Harrison Hot Springs has been a hotspot for Sasquatch sightings for a millennium. Sts’a’iles believe the Sasquatch, or Sasq’ets, is the caretaker of the land and a spiritual being. Visit the Sasquatch Museum in Harrison Hot Springs to learn more about this elusive being.
Bird watching Harrison Lake and Harrison River are known as major resting grounds for the north-south migratory bird species. In the fall, the Harrison River is home to one of the largest congregations of bald eagles in North America. Discover the Season of the Wild in the Harrison River Valley.
Salmon & Weaver Creek For a truly amazing sight, visit the Harrison Mills Weaver Creek Spawning Channel in October. You will be treated to the beauty of red and green spawning salmon by the thousands.
Waterfalls The mountains surrounding Harrison provide spectacular waterfalls. Rainbow Falls is a truly remarkable gem hidden at the base of Slocan Mountain, accessible by a 20 minute boat ride.
Bridal Veil Falls cascades 122 meters (400 feet) over a broad rock face, creating a stunning veil-like effect. The falls is a short 20-minute drive from Harrison Hot Springs.
EXPLORE THE PETROGLYPHS on the Harrison River, paddle from Harrison Hot Springs to Kilby Provincial Park
CATCH THE MIGHTY GREAT WHITE STURGEON on the Harrison and Fraser Rivers 5 3 1
6
SOAK IN THE HOT SPRINGS
Harrison Hot Springs Resort
HARRISON WATERSPORTS WATERPARK
Harrison Hot Springs 4
SKIING SASQUATCH MOUNTAIN
Hemlock Valley
CANOE HICKS LAKE District of Kent
7 THE CIRCLE FARM TOUR in AgassizHarrison Mills
KILBY HISTORIC SITE
9 HARRISON SASQUATCH MUSEUM
Harrison Hot Springs
10
SASQUATCH MOUNTAIN RESORT’S NEW AERIAL PARK! Agassiz DON’T MISS OUT
SPRING FLOWER EXPERIENCES & FLOWER SHOPS
• Harrison Tulip Festival | Experience
• Fir Road Flowers | Stand
• Blue Clover Creations | Stand
• Holly Tree Florist | Shop
• Garden House | Shop
• Harrison Lavender | Shop
RAINY DAY ACTIVITIES
• Soak in the healing waters of the Harrison Hot Springs Public Mineral Pool
• Sasquatch Museum
• Explore the artisan shops of the Circle Farm Tour
• Visit our colourful Art Galleries & Museums
• Embrace the weather and cozy up with a warm bowl of soup or a carefully crafted specialty beverage
• Ranger Station Art Gallery
• Agassiz-Harrison Museum
• Canwest Art Gallery
• Geocaching
SPRING EVENTS
• Easter at Kilby
• Mother’s Day at Kilby
• Season of Performing Arts
• Spring Break at Sasquatch Mountain Resort
• Harrison Tulip Festival
TOP 5 SWIMMING HOLES
• Hicks Lake
• Harrison Lagoon
• Greenpoint Provincial Park
• Kilby Provincial Park
• Weaver Lake
SUMMER EVENTS
• Sasquatch Days
• Agassiz Speedway
• Father’s Day at Kilby
• Canada Day Celebrations
• Harrison Festival of the Arts
• Bands on the Beach
• En Plein Air Painting Festival at Kilby
• Harrison Watersports Waterpark
• Summer Harvest
• Sasquatch Mountain Disc Golf & Aerial Park
• Hobie Cat Regatta
SEASONAL FARM- FRESH EXPERIENCES
• Agassiz Farm Fresh Market (June - September)
• Deroche Farmers Market (June - September)
• Cedar Cider (April - October)
• Sparkes Corn Barn & Produce Stand (May - October)
• Wells Farms Market (May - October)
• Earthwise Society Agassiz Farm (year-round)
• Homestead Cider in Agassiz (April - October)
EVENTS
• Agassiz Fall Fair and Corn Festival
• Harvest Festival at Kilby
• Season of the Wild
• Salmon Spawning
• Bald Eagle Viewing
• Season of Performing Arts
• Thanksgiving at Kilby
SPOOKY ATTRACTIONS & PUMPKIN PATCHES
• Kilby Pumpkinfest
• Halloween Spooktacular
• Sparkes Farm Produce Pumpkin Patch
• Bumps in the Night at Kilby
TOP PLACES TO SEE THE FALL COLOURS
• Eagle Viewing Gazebo at the Sandpiper Resort
• Kilby Provincial Park
• Bear Mountain Trail
• Sasquatch Provincial Park
• Weaver Creek Spawning Channel
• Chehalis River Trail
Check
HOLIDAY TRADITIONS
Experience the warm, cozy holiday spirit in the Harrison River Valley. Sip on hot cocoa as you stroll through our enchanting Holiday Lights!
HARRISON RIVER VALLEY LIGHTS
• Lights by the Lake
• Winter Night Lights
• Dicken’s Christmas Tea at the Agassiz-Harrison Museum
STARLIGHT SKATING RINK
Made from synthetic ice, the Starlight Skating Rink is open seasonally. Bring your own skates, or rent a pair, and enjoy the lakeside outdoor skating rink.
SASQUATCH MOUNTAIN RESORT
A small ski resort with biiiig powder! Enjoy skiing, boarding, snowshoeing, and tubing! sasquatchmountain.ca/gettingheresmr/ our-road
FOLLOW YOUR HEART BENEFIT CONCERT
Join us for an evening of entertainment hosted by Tourism Harrison River Valley and Harley Blue Music. Silent Auction with proceeds benefiting Variety – The Children’s Charity. Concession hosted by Harrison Festival Society.
CREEKSIDE CHEESE + CREAMERY
EARTHWISE SOCIETY FARM
Circle Farm Tour: A Taste of the Fraser Valley
Home to the original Circle Farm Tour which has now expanded to include Chilliwack, Abbotsford, and Langley, visitors can savour delectable farm-fresh products, connect with the origins of their food and experience the countryside in all its glory.
The Fraser Valley’s stunning countryside is filled with
experiences to captivate your senses and connect you to our friendly people and their agricultural roots. The Self-Guided Circle Farm Tour allows visitors and locals to spend an afternoon (or longer!) choosing their own agri-adventure and exploring the best farms in the valley.
#thefraservalley | thefraservalley.ca
This series is a celebration of the senses.
During July and August, immerse yourself in the tastes, sights, and traditions of the Harrison River Valley at participating farms. This series highlights our region’s rich agricultural heritage and the spirit of farm-to-table dining.
Enjoy yoga in fragrant lavender fields, indulge in long-table dinners under the stars, and savour live music at our charming cideries. With various events and experiences, the Summer Harvest Series offers something special for everyone.
The Harrison River Valley boasts fertile soil and a vibrant farm-to-table culture. When it comes to dining, you’ll find a diverse selection of restaurants and eateries that cater to every taste; from upscale dining experiences and cozy pub fare to picturesque lakeside patios. Savour an array of international flavors. Whatever you’re craving, there’s a delicious option waiting for you! Visit our website for a complete list of restaurants and cafés.
EXPLORE ALL DINING
Discover unique gifts, stylish clothing, gourmet food, art galleries, and more!
Stroll through the charming downtown core of Agassiz, where you’ll find shops with distinctive gifts and memorable keepsakes, a delightful bakery, and the best store dedicated to camping and fishing supplies!
The quaint village of Harrison Hot Springs features an outdoor pedestrian mall, one-of-akind shops, and lakefront stores.
Explore the farm shops on the self-guided Circle Farm Tour, and take home the freshest produce and artisanal goods!
For a complete guide to the diverse shops in the Harrison River Valley, be sure to visit our website!
tourismharrison.com
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF ALL OUR SHOPS
Bring your family to the Harrison River Valley to share a memorable day of entertainment and fun!
• Get in touch with your inner child at the Harrison Watersports Waterpark
• Explore the village by quadricycle
• Pet the animals, enjoy a hand churned ice cream, and discover the history at Kilby Historic Site
• Cool off with ice cream! Harrison’s beachfront is sprinkled with shops that will cater to your sweet tooth
• Discover the local lore of the elusive Sasquatch at Harrison’s Sasquatch Museum
• Build a sandcastle
• Soak up the sun at one of our local beaches
• Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of our local parks
• Discover the masks hidden amongst the treetops of the Spirit Trail
• Follow the Sasquatch Trail in search of the elusive beast. Have your camera ready!
Come and Explore
DIFFICULTY: EASY DISTANCE: 1KM
RETURN TIME: 30 MINUTES
Spirit Trail is a short walk through a beautiful old-growth cedar forest in Harrison Hot Springs. A local artist created the clay masks you see throughout this trail. The trees in these enchanted woods are thought to have individual personalities. Over time, the artist added masks along the trail and continues to do so. These masks enhance the trail’s already present spiritual feel. Look for a circle of trees with masks to find the ideal spot for quiet contemplation. The trail is found on McCombs Drive heading south from Harrison Lake. Adding the Bridle Trail turns it into a 5 km loop surrounded by forest, flora, wetlands, cliffs, and wildlife.
The word Sasquatch is thought to be a mispronunciation of the Sts’ailes First Nations word ‘Sasq’ets’, meaning ‘hairy man’. For centuries, the Sasquatch has occupied a unique niche in the oral traditions of the First Nations communities of Harrison Lake and Harrison River. The Sts’ailes believe the Sasquatch is a spiritual being that can vanish into the spirit realm at will, which may explain why the elusive being is so difficult to track down.
The home of the Harrison Sasquatch and location of some sightings are the caves of Mystery Valley on the West Side of Harrison Lake. Local lore says the Sasquatch
Described as a bi-pedal mammal of exceptional size (sometimes reaching 14’) with great strength and reddish hair covering its entire body, the Sasquatch is legendary in the Harrison River Valley with many regional sightings.
hold a reunion every four years, beginning on the night of the full moon in July. For four nights in succession as the Sasquatch meet, signal fires are kept burning. 1940 is the last year fires were seen burning however reported sightings in the area have been as recent as 2022.
Harrison Hot Springs is not only home to the Sasquatch but also to Sasquatch Days - a celebration held annually in June, Sasquatch Days brings the local Sts’ailes First Nations to Harrison for a weekend of war canoe races, salmon barbeque and Sasquatch story telling.
Harrison is also home to a number of
reputable Sasquatch investigators including legendary Mr. Sasquatch, the late John Green. Green was one of the first to investigate the 1967 site of the Patterson-Gimlin Bigfoot film shoot at Bluff Creek. Since then Green traveled the West Coast collecting scientific evidence that supports the existence of the Sasquatch. John Green has since passed away, but his collection lives on in the John Green room at Kilby Historic Site as well as the Sasquatch Museum in Harrison Hot Springs. He is also the author of some of the most in depth and informative books on the subject.
Travel back more than 100 years and relive the rich history of Harrison Hot Springs and its surrounding areas.
Whether you are interested in how people lived, farmed, traveled or ate, our local museums and historic sites are great learning experiences for the whole family.
SASQUATCH MUSEUM
Start with a selfie at the Sasquatch carving at the entrance to Harrison, then continue down the road to the Sasquatch Museum, home to the Land of the Giants. A trip to Harrison isn’t complete without a glimpse of the bipedal mammal, the life-sized prehistoric sturgeon carving, and soaring eagles. Explore all things Sasquatch as the museum leads you through compelling artifacts, history, witness accounts, science, lore, and myths. Be sure to check out the Sasquatch Gift Shop where you will find Sasquatch Stuffies, books, water bottles, toys, t-shirts, and all kinds of gift ideas for believers and skeptics alike! tourismharrison.com | 499 Hot Springs Rd.
KILBY HISTORIC SITE
Travel back to an early 1900’s rural community and visit a 1906 General Store Museum complete with original merchandise. Observe the antics of our friendly farm animals. Taste freshly churned butter, or try your hand at rope making. This 5-acre Fraser Valley living history site includes a home-style café & unique country gift shop. Licensed premises.
kilby.ca | 215 Kilby Road
AGASSIZ HARRISON MUSEUM
Housed in an 1893 CPR station, the museum’s extensive archives include photographs, newspapers, and artifacts depicting the life of our early pioneers.
agassizharrisonmuseum.org | 7011 Pioneer Ave.
From our art galleries by the lake to music festivals on the beach the Harrison River Valley is a well known cultural hub.
Exhibits include pottery, glassworks, original paintings and prints by local artists and an artist-in-residence.
Kentharrisonartscouncil.com | 98 Rockwell Drive, Harrison
CANWEST ART GALLERY ON THE LAKE
Indulge your senses as you enter this unique gallery. Spend a few minutes or a few hours while you take in the gorgeous Harrison Lake view.
Canwestgallery.com | Unit 3, 160 Esplanade Ave, Harrison
RUBY CREEK ART GALLERY
The Ruby Creek Art Gallery features the finest Northwest Coast First Nations Art. It is located on the scenic #7 Highway between Agassiz and Hope. rubycreekartgallery.com 58611, C, Lougheed Hwy. , Agassiz.
This award-winning festival is a 9-day, cross disciplinary, multicultural event on the shores of Harrison Lake. Featuring music, arts, and crafts from the Fraser Valley and around the globe.
Harrisonfestival.com | 98 Rockwell Drive, Harrison
SEASON OF PERFORMING ARTS
The Harrison Festival Society celebrates live music with monthly concerts in the Memorial Hall from SeptemberMay. Check out their website for upcoming performances. Harrisonfestival.com | 98 Rockwell Drive, Harrison
The Harrison River Valley is famous for its healing mineral waters, but that is only one of many ways to experience restorative energy while you’re here.
All around you you’ll find ways to relieve and lessen negative effects of stress. Close your eyes and imagine yourself hiking, the gentle pad of your boots on a mossy forest floor, listening to the sounds of birdsong and the rhythm of your breathing. Picture yourself reaching the peak, panoramic viewpoint, and spending some time to breathe in fresh mountain air, enjoy the views, and exist in the moment. Find peace and healing in the wilds of the Harrison River Valley.
HEALING SPRINGS SPA
Enjoy the mineral springs included with your spa appointment. Massage, body wraps, foot and hand treatments, waxing and beauty services available.
100 Esplanade Avenue, HHS | 604-796-4746
YA DOMA NATURE & FOREST THERAPY
Open your senses and immerse yourself in Forest Therapy. A mindful experience of slowing down and being in the moment in a natural environment. Contact Kim for individual or group sessions.
yadomaforesttherapy@gmail.com | 604-378-0369
CRYSTAL SPIRIT HEALING | YOGA | REIKI
Be the architect of your transformation.
Breath Coaching | 9D Transformations Journeys
Yoga | Sound Healing | Wedding Ceremonies
crystalspirityogahealing@gmail.com | 604-845-9642
RENEWED WELLNESS
A dedicated team helping patients achieve their health and wellness goals by using a variety of treatment techniques tailored to each individual’s needs.
2-1824 No. 9 Hwy, Agassiz | 604-491-8889
The history of Harrison’s hot springs dates back thousands of years, shaped by the local Indigenous people. Long before Harrison Hot Springs was “discovered” by Europeans in the 1800s, the Sts’ailes people regarded it as a sacred “healing” place.
Durings the 1850 Gold Rush, Harrison Lake was the initial route most prospectors took to the gold fields. Taking a paddlewheeler from New Westminster they would follow the Fraser then head up the Harrison River to Port Douglas.
From Port Douglas to Lillooet, a mixed land and water route was built named the Douglas Road, aka the Lillooet Trail, Harrison Trail, or Lake Routes.
During its rowdy heyday, Port Douglas had thousands of residents. Many of BC mainland’s first companies had their start here including the famous B.X. Express and other major freighting
companies. These companies relocated to the Fraser Canyon with the completion of the Cariboo Wagon road in the mid 1860’s. Settlers are said to have ‘discovered’ the hot springs in 1858 while enroute to the gold fields. Their boat capsized and expecting to meet their doom in the frigid waters, they instead discovered that the lake at that spot was not freezing but rather warm.
The local Sts’ailes First Nations called the Hot Springs “Kwals”, meaning boiling water. The hot springs were revered as a “healing place” by natives of the Coast Salish people who traveled by canoe to benefit from the healing waters.
Join us this fall as we celebrate the beauty and biodiversity of the Harrison River Valley by honouring the majestic bald eagle, the luminescent salmon, and the prehistoric sturgeon.
Every year between October and January, spawning salmon return to Canada’s first certified salmon stronghold, the Harrison River. This ecologically rich river is one of the most protected and productive salmon ecosystems in the world, attracting tens of thousands of wintering bald eagles to the area.
Travel our trails and waterways to witness the raptors feast on the river banks and glide through the waters with our modern-day dinosaurs, the sturgeon.
Take a hike to Bridal Veil Falls! The falls cascade 122 meters (400 feet) over a broad rock face, creating a stunning veillike effect as the water flows into Bridal Creek, heading towards Cheam Lake Wetlands Regional Park and then the Fraser River. Afterwards, ride 100’ of total darkness in the Black Hole or tube down the thrilling Rapids River Ride at Bridal Falls Water Park. fvrd.ca/parks
The Syéxw Chó:leqw Adventure Park is located on the traditional territory of Sq’ewá:lxw First Nation. This park is home to walking and cycling trails, a playground, and a bikeskills park. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful wood carvings throughout the park, and the numerous look-out points!.
skawahlook.com/ syexw-choleqwadventure-park
More than 200 million gallons of water per minute thunder through a 33-metre-wide narrow passage at the Hell’s Gate gorge. An aerial tram 150 metres in the air offers a bird’s eye view of this historic landmark. Suspension bridge, observation deck, gold panning, salmon spawning exhibit, shopping and fresh fudge!
hellsgateairtram.com
Known as the Chainsaw Carving Capital, more than 60 chainsaw carvings can be found throughout downtown Hope. Many of these carvings were created by the late Pete Ryan, a worldrenowned chainsaw carver, along with other talented artists at the International Chainsaw Carving Competition. hopebc.ca/listings/hopechainsaw-carvings
The Othello Tunnels in Hope, BC, are a series of historic railway tunnels carved through solid rock, offering stunning views of the Fraser River and scenic mountain landscapes along a popular hiking trail.
Bramblebank Cottages 312 Lillooet Avenue bramblebankcottages.com 1-800-331-8099 604-796-9552 7 units
Glencoe Motel
259 Hot Springs Road glencoemotel.com 604-796-2574 11
Harrison Beach Hotel 160 Esplanade Avenue harrisonbeachhotel.com 1-866-338-8111 604-796-1111 42 units
Harrison Grand Motel 280 Esplanade Avenue harrisongrandmotel.ca 604-491-8850 18 units
Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa 100 Esplanade Avenue harrisonresort.com
Harrison Lake Hotel 190 Lillooet Avenue harrisonlakehotel.com
1-800-663-2266 604-796-2244 353 units
1-888-265-1155 604-796-5555 88 units
Harrison Lakeview Suites 298 Lillooet Avenue harrisonlakeview.com 604-491-0014 21 units
Harrison Spa Motel 140 Esplanade Avenue harrisonspamotel.com
1-800-592-8828 604-796-2828 23 units
The Lodge on Harrison Lake 6155 Rockwell Drive thelodgeonharrisonlake.ca 604-819-5374 9 units
The Oasis by Lifty Life 470 Esplanade Avenue vacation.liftylife.ca 778-657-6998 5 units
Ozarks Island Retreat 6069 Rockwell Drive info@ozarks.ca 604-790-2628
Ozarks Lakeside Retreat 6507 Rockwell Drive info@ozarks.ca 604-790-2628
The Rockwell Harrison B&B 7550 Rockwell Drive therockwellharrison.ca 778-888-7080 3 units
Springs Villa Hotel 270 Esplanade Avenue springvillahotel.com 604-796-9339
Bear Mountain Ranch and Resort 3310 Chaplin Road bearmountainranchandresort.ca 604-796-1027
Fraser River Lodge 7984 McDonald Road fraserriverlodge.com 604-796-1210
Pathfinder Camp Resort 6110 Lougheed Highway pathfindercampresorts.com
South Garden Vacation Rental 3048 Hot Springs Road southgardenbandb.com
1-833-581-2003 604-335-2599 8
1-866-796-3048 604-819-6460 2 units
Woodside Inn 2226 Lougheed Highway woodsideinn.ca 604-615-7770
Cheam Fishing Village
630 Appel Road cheamfishingvillage.com 604-997-5533
Glencoe RV Park
259 Hot Springs Road glencoemotel.com
Harrison East Recreation Sites
Harrison River RV and Campground 1201 Kennedy Road harrisonriverrv.com 604-799-0329
Harrison Springs Camping & RV Park
740 Hot Springs Road
Hot Springs RV
272 Lillooet Avenue
Kilby Historic Site Glamping Tents
215 Kilby Road, Harrison Mills kilby.ca 604-796-9576
Kilby Park Campground
215 Kilby Road
Pathfinder Camp Resorts 6110 Lougheed Highway pathfindercampresorts.com 1-866-267-3678
Sandpiper Resort Camping 14282 Morris Valley Road sandpiperresort.ca
Sasquatch Provincial Park 6km north of Harrison Hot Springs bcparks.ca/sasquatch-park 1-800-689-9025
Springs RV Resort
670 Hot Springs Road springsrv.com 604-796-9767
Experience award-winning accommodations in one of our 6 guest rooms at our historic B&B where nature abounds and quiet fills the air, all adjacent to the Harrison River wetlands Meditate in our Zen Garden, walk gentle paths through the forest, or view wildlife in their natural habitat from our newly built eagle viewing tower. Swim in our seasonal salt-water pool or curl up with a good book in front of the wood fireplace We offer complimentary full breakfasts to overnight guests and on-site catering for groups of 6-20 with advance notice Our versatile meeting room is available to rent for corporate gatherings or celebratory events Sasquatch Crossing Eco Lodge proudly displays our Sts’ailes Indigenous culture and history throughout the lodge, and we hope to share it with you soon!
When in the Village of Harrison Hot Springs, make sure your first stop is the Visitor Information Centre, located on Hot Springs Road.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff can provide current community information, brochures, and maps. WiFi and public washrooms are available, as well as a selection of Sasquatch and Harrison Hot Springs souvenirs. While there, check out the Sasquatch Museum in the Land of the Giants.
The Village of Harrison Hot Springs has been designated by the Province of B.C. as a Resort Municipality. Due to the cooperative efforts of business, residents and local government, the Village thrives as a destination for visitors.
The neighbouring communities of Agassiz, Harrison Mills and Hemlock Valley provide many resources that support the Harrison River Valley, including banking services, grocery stores, gas stations, pharmacies, veterinary clinics, library, swimming pool, recreation centre, real estate services and museums.
To learn more about each community, visit the websites listed below:
VILLAGE OF HARRISON HOT SPRINGS harrisonhotsprings.ca
AGASSIZ (DISTRICT OF KENT) kentbc.ca
HARRISON-AGASSIZ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE harrison.ca
The Harrison River Valley’s mild climate is perfect for all seasons. Enjoy going to the beach, hiking, golfing, wind-sports, or explore the alpine slopes at Sasquatch Mountain Resort ski hill in the winter. The live webcam in Harrison Hot Springs, available at tourismharrison.com, gives you real time footage of what weather to expect in the Harrison River Valley. For a detailed weather report visit weather.gc.ca
A federal goods and services tax (GST) of 5% and provincial sales tax (PST) of 7% are applicable on most purchased goods and services. In the Harrison River Valley, there is a 3% additional room tax on accommodations.
The Observer is the proud publisher of this guide and covers the communities of Agassiz & Harrison. To see all stories, photos and videos, visit us online at: agassizharrisonobserver.com
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