Without a doubt, autumn is the best time to slip away on a weekend getaway in B.C.
Resorts are less crowded, summer prices have dropped and the entire province is punctuated by brilliant fall colours. If you’re looking for an easy getaway where you can curl up and soak in everything the fall months have to offer, look no further than Harrison Hot Springs.
Located just 1.5 hours from Vancouver, the town of Harrison Hot Springs was literally built on the premise of slowing down and enjoying yourself. Here’s why we think it’s this season’s must-visit vacation spot.
You can get there quick
Located at the southern end of Harrison Lake in the Fraser Valley, you can easily do the whole trip on less than a tank of gas. Should you choose to take your time, there’s plenty of gorgeous scenery and rustic farmland to stop at along the way.
You can wine and dine to your heart's content
Arriving to Harrison hungry is not an issue. The area has a ton of restaurants, pubs and coffee houses, with a few standout dining opportunities that would be a shame to miss out on. Black Forest Restaurant specializes in traditional German Fare served from their quaint outdoor patio, the historic Copper Room serves delectable Fraser Valley cuisine and Morgan's Bistro offers a selection of creative west coast entrees and a wonderful view of Harrison Lake beach.
For more casual dining, Muddy Waters Cafe specializes farm-to-table cuisine, and delish specialty coffees. It’s right next to the beach and perfect for a quick breakfast or lunch.
You can see Bald Eagles!
The eagles have landed! Every fall, 1000’s of Bald Eagles descend on the Harrison River to take advantage of the salmon runs. Fraser Valley Eagle Festival celebrates the beauty and biodiversity of the Fraser River Valley by honouring both the majestic bald eagle and the cycle of this salmon run each year. In addition to the festival, Harrison Eco Tours and Shoreline Tours also offers bald eagle sightseeing tours from the lake every fall.
Harrison is also home to dozens of trails that are perfect for any activity level. Adorned with ancient moss and gorgeous old trees, Spirit Trail extends one kilometre into the forest, taking only 20 - 30 minutes to complete. The trail is known for the hand carved masks which are hidden amongst the trees. Fall foliage is in full effect, giving you another reason to get out and explore.
You can get into the holiday spirit
Lights on the Lake is a free attraction that begins on November 23rd. The free event features tons of holiday light and displays, offering locals and visitors and families a picturesque start to the upcoming holiday season.
You can soak in the healing powers of the local hot springs
After a day of outdoor fun, it may be time for the main event. Revered as the "healing place" by the local Sts'ailes First Nations for thousands of years, Harrison boasts multiple hot springs for your enjoyment. There are hot pools near the lake, and naturally sourced springs at the resort and the public pool.
You can stay somewhere great for less
Vacationing in the fall means paying a lot less. Harrison offers a huge variety of lodging options that should work for any budget. From the iconic Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa, which features 5 hot spring pools, Healing Springs Spa and four restaurants on a lakefront resort, to the lesser known bed & breakfasts, vacation rentals, cabins and even RV Rentals, fall really is the most affordable time to getaway in B.C. You can view all of Harrison’s lodging options HERE.
Harrison Hot Springs is just up the road! To learn more, visit tourismharrison.com
