The best walks and hikes around Harrison Lake

Harrison Lake is the largest lake in southwestern BC, and is a glacier-fed body of water stretching about 60 kilometres long and up to 9 kilometres wide, flanked by the Lillooet and Douglas Mountain Ranges. The lake played a significant role in the early history of British Columbia as one of the main water routes during the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush of 1858–1860. Today, it’s a popular destination for boating, kayaking, and fishing, especially near the resort community of Harrison Hot Springs at its southern end.

Cascade Peninsula trail is a relatively challenging route with fantastic views of Harrison Lake, but be prepared for a few steep, uneven sections along the way. It's a quiet, off-the-beaten-path trek that sees little traffic, making it a great option if you're looking for some solitude and beautiful scenery. The trail is open seasonally from April to October, making it an ideal place to spend some time outdoors on a warm day.

Cascade Peninsula Recreation Site is a medium-sized forested campsite nestled on the shores of Harrison Lake, tucked into a sheltered bay that protects it from the strong inflow winds that pick up during the hotter parts of the day. It’s a popular spot for boaters, anglers, and hikers, with sites available on a first-come, first-served basis (cash only). It’s important to note that though improvements have been made, a 4WD vehicle is best for accessing this area.

Long Island Bay Recreation Site is a small, protected, boat-access-only site on the west side of Long Island on Harrison Lake, making this dock your gateway to the island’s trail network. There are three docks configured in a “U” shape that can accommodate any size of vessel. If you don’t have your own boat, you can arrange drop-off and pick-up through Shoreline Tours in Harrison Hot Springs, which offers water taxi service to Long Island at $325 per hour. You can contact them directly to confirm availability and scheduling before your trip here: https://shoreline-tours.squarespace.com/harrison-hot-springs-speedboattour.

This beach at the north end of Long Island Bay Recreation Site is a quiet, natural shoreline spot where the bay opens up to the more expansive lake. It’s a mix of coarse sand and small stones, with clear, cold water and fantastic views up the rugged, forested slopes that surround Harrison Lake. Less developed than the main campground area, this secluded spot is ideal for landing small boats, relaxing, or taking in the beautiful, remote setting.

This trail is a remote, challenging out-and-back route on the west side of Long Island along Harrison Lake. Accessible only by boat, this trail sees very few visitors, making it a great escape into nature. It runs through lush, forested terrain and connects to several side trails that lead to picturesque freshwater lakes and elevated viewpoints overlooking Long Island Bay, with plenty of opportunities for camping and paddling. Covering approximately 27 kilometres with considerable elevation gain, this trail is best suited for experienced hikers ready for a long, backcountry-style day.

Long Island Bay campground includes a communal fire pit, a small picnic shelter, and outhouses and is a simple but functional base for exploring the island on foot. From here, there are several trails that lead to a lookout towering over Long Island Bay, freshwater lakes, and various other parts of the island. The site is maintained in partnership with the BC Forest Service by Harrison Yacht Club volunteers, and there are no camping fees; just be sure to pack out what you pack in.

Bear Lake is a small fishing lake off Bear Lake FSR. You will need to take a wooden boardwalk to get to the lake; however, it is in rough shape, so please use caution.