Harrison Lake
Harrison Lake
- Boat Ramps
- 3
- Access Points
- 5
- Campsites
- 3
Harrison Lake is a large lake in British Columbia's Fraser Valley, accessible from the village of Harrison Hot Springs at its southern end. The primary put-in is at the Harrison Boat Launch located at 498 Esplanade Avenue in Harrison Hot Springs, which provides access to the lake and connects to the Harrison River. The Village of Harrison Hot Springs is also developing a new accessible canoe and kayak launch in the northernmost bay on the east side of the lagoon, designed to accommodate paddlers of varying mobility levels.
Wind is the dominant hazard on Harrison Lake and the most important factor in trip planning. On typical summer days, a morning outflow wind blows toward the ocean and the town at the south end. As the interior land mass heats up through the day, the wind reverses direction and blows up the lake toward the interior, typically beginning around noon to 1:00 p.m. at the town end and reaching points roughly 13 miles up the lake a couple of hours later. By mid-afternoon, wave heights in the middle of the lake can reach three to five feet. These thermal wind patterns are most reliable in July and tend to diminish through August. Paddlers are strongly advised to be on the water early and off or sheltered before midday. The east side of the lake toward the far end is notably steep with few places to pull out, which is an important consideration when planning a route.
A popular overnight route involves paddling west across the south end of Harrison Lake to the Harrison River mouth, a journey of roughly 30 minutes, then continuing down the Harrison River. This trip is considered manageable for paddlers with moderate fitness, though the afternoon wind on the lake portion makes it unsuitable for complete beginners. The return leg across the lake is typically the more challenging section due to wind.
Wildlife visible from the water includes blue herons, eagles, osprey, seals, bears, deer, and coyotes. The Harrison River flows clear and meets the turbid Fraser River at its confluence, a visually striking contrast. Kayak rentals and guided tours are available through local operators in Harrison Hot Springs, with options for both single and double kayaks.
Water access, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on Harrison Lake. Uncover great paddling access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. PaddleWays's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.
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HARRISON LAKE NEAR HARRISON HOT SPRINGS
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