Winter’s imminent arrival brings a mix of festive fun, relaxation, and adventure to the Harrison River Valley. From sparkling light displays, to cozy cabin getaways, to gliding down snowy slopes, there’s no shortage of fun this season! Here are some ideas to fill your winter calendar with activities and experiences that the whole family will enjoy.
1. SEE MAGICAL HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAYS
There’s just something about colourful, shimmering holiday light displays that usher in the warm spirits of the season.
Left: Lights by the Lake illuminates 2km of the Harrison Hot Springs lakefront until January 12, 2025. See custom-built light displays featuring area wildlife and sasquatch, old fashioned light standards, and colourful selfie stands. The promenade is fully paved, making it wheelchair and stroller friendly.
Right: Winter Night Lights in Agassiz features dazzling lights spanning Pioneer Park from the Agassiz-Harrison Museum to the Historic Aberdeen building from December 1 to 31. Watch for events on December 13 & 14 featuring food trucks, mini train, visits with Santa and the Grinch and more.
2. GO ON A FOODIE ADVENTURE
From the delicious indulgence of casual pub fare to premium fine dining, the Harrison River Valley is a foodie’s paradise! Get a taste for what we have to offer here. You’ll find a range of options to satisfy every craving and budget!
3. ENJOY THE POWDER AT AT SASQUATCH MOUNTAIN RESORT
The snow is falling in the mountains of Hemlock Valley, and Sasquatch Mountain Resort opens for the season on December 21st (weather dependent). Enjoy world class skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing. With a 1350 cm total averge snowfall and 37 marked runs over 205 acres, you’ll have plenty of room to zoom in this gorgeous resort!
4. TAKE A COZY CABIN OR LODGE GETAWAY
Winter calls for a cozy cabin, cottage, or lodge stay for the ultimate winter getaway. Bask in the comfort of a crackling fire for ultimate relaxation. Check out these accommodations and book a stay this season (click on each to learn more).
– Bramblebank Cottages
– Fraser River Lodge
– Harrison Hot Springs Resort Cabins
– The Lodge on Harrison Lake
– Pathfinder Camp Resorts
– Sandpiper Resort/Rowena’s Inn on the River
– The Rockwell Harrison Guest Lodge B&B
Taking a ski vacation at Sasquatch Mountain Resort?
Stay nearby in the mountains of Hemlock Valley:
– Hemlock Hollow
– Bear Behind Lodge
– Green Giant Chalet
– The Grizzly Den
– Snowflake Resort Chalets
You’ll find even more choices here.
5. PLAY A ROUND AT SANDPIPER RESORT
Ski and golf on the same day? Yes, you can do that here! Sandpiper Resort’s immaculate 18-hole, par 72 course is open! The area’s spectacular beauty, combined with a neatly manicured course nestled in old-growth forest combine for an incredible golfing experience. Check out their variety of offers and packages!
6. SKATE ON THE STARLIGHT SKATING RINK
The Starlight Skating Rink is open daily until January 5th. There is no charge to use the rink, just bring your skates! Don’t have any? Don’t worry, skate rentals and a concession are available (charges apply).
Skate Rental and Concession Hours:
November 8th – January 5th
Fridays and Saturdays: 2pm to 8pm
Sundays: 1pm to 7pm.
Additionally, the rink will be staffed on all statutory holidays and School District #78 vacation days during that period (with the exception of Christmas Eve and Christmas day). The rink is located at 495 Esplanade Avenue (boat launch parking lot).
7. EXPERIENCE THE SEASON OF THE WILD
The Season of the Wild is in full swing until January, with plenty of wildlife watching opportunities. Bring your camera and capture the photo of a lifetime! We’ve compiled the best viewing locations here!
8. BOOK A FISHING EXCURSION
Experience the fishing trip of a lifetime with one of our industry-leading guiding companies. Knowledgeable and professional guides will help you catch a whopper! BC Sportfishing Group, Champ Sportfishing Charters, Fraser River Lodge, and Kilby Lodge all offer top-of-the-line boats and equipment with impeccable safety standards.
9. TAKE A HIKE!
Area hiking trails are nice and quiet at this time of year, but the workout and views at the top are just as amazing as ever! Check out our wide variety of trails – you’ll find our latest hiking guide here!
We hope you’ll create lasting memories with us in the Harrison River Valley! Don’t forget to tag us on social media @tourismharrison and #HarrisonRiverValley – we love to see your winter adventures in the Harrison River Valley! Be sure to stop by and visit us at our Visitor Information Centre and Sasquatch Museum at 499 Hot Springs Road.
