Blackberry Bush
ParkBritish Columbia, CA
Sasquatch Provincial Park
Sasquatch Provincial Park, nestled near Harrison Hot Springs in British Columbia, is a captivating natural escape defined by its pristine "pocket lakes," lush second-growth forests, and dramatic mountain backdrops.
About
Sasquatch Provincial Park, nestled near Harrison Hot Springs in British Columbia, is a captivating natural escape defined by its pristine "pocket lakes," lush second-growth forests, and dramatic mountain backdrops. This 1,217-hectare park offers a tranquil setting for visitors seeking both adventure and serenity, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park's name itself evokes the rich Indigenous history and the enduring legend of the Sasquatch, or "sasqac" in the Coast Salish language, a mythical being said to roam these very lands.
The park's diverse landscape provides a playground for various activities. Hicks Lake and Deer Lake are ideal for swimming, canoeing, and motorboating (with restrictions), while the quieter Trout Lake offers a peaceful retreat for fishing. Enthusiastic hikers can explore easy trails like the Hicks Lake Trail, the Deer Lake Trail, and the interpretive Beaver Pond Trail, where one might spot an American Beaver diligently at work. Birdwatchers can keep an eye out for ospreys circling the lakes and various warblers and woodpeckers in the canopy, while those with keen eyes might spot Mountain Goats on the steep Slollicum Bluffs above Deer Lake.
A visit to Sasquatch Provincial Park promises memorable experiences, from lakeside relaxation to invigorating forest explorations. It's a place where the vibrant ecosystem thrives, offering opportunities to encounter species like the Western Toad, Northern Red-legged Frog, or even a Common Garter Snake basking in the sun. The park's blend of accessible recreation and wild beauty makes it a quintessential Pacific Northwest destination, inviting guests to connect with nature and perhaps even feel the lingering mystery of its namesake. Planning to visit? Download the Snappit app to identify the wildlife you spot in real-time.
Sasquatch Provincial Park was officially established in 1968, though its origins trace back earlier. It began in 1959 as a modest 20-hectare inland fjord known as Green Point Park, which was expanded into a picnicking area by 1960. Eight years later, the park underwent a significant expansion and was subsequently renamed Sasquatch Provincial Park. The name pays homage to the legendary Sasquatch, a cryptid rooted in Coast Salish folklore and believed to be endemic to the region. The area around Harrison Lake also has a history of logging, which began in the early 1900s, leading to the second-growth forests seen today.
What to do here
Boating: Motorized boats (max 10 hp) on Hicks Lake, electric motors only on Deer Lake, non-motorized on Trout Lake, and unrestricted boating (including waterskiing) on Harrison Lake.
Swimming: Designated areas at Hicks Lake, Deer Lake, and Green Point on Harrison Lake.
Fishing: Freshwater fishing for rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and brook char (license required).
Hiking: Explore the Hicks Lake Trail (4 km return), Deer Lake Trail (2 km return), and the Beaver Pond Interpretive Trail (500m loop).
Wildlife Viewing: Look for American Beavers on the Beaver Pond Trail, observe birds like the Canada Goose, American Robin, and Red-breasted Sapsucker, and potentially spot American Black Bears or Douglas's Squirrels.
Picnicking: Day-use areas with picnic tables at Hicks Lake, Lakeside (Deer Lake), and Green Point.
Camping: Three vehicle-accessible campgrounds: Hicks Lake, Bench, and Lakeside (Deer Lake).
Seasonal info
Summer: Lakes are relatively warm, making them popular for swimming. Campsites fill up quickly, so reservations are highly recommended. Be aware of swimmer's itch, common in BC lakes, and dry off thoroughly after swimming to minimize risk.
Off-season (shoulder seasons): Ideal for quieter visits and better wildlife viewing opportunities. Canoe and kayak rentals might be limited, so bringing your own is advisable.
Water: A boil water advisory has been in effect for Hicks Lake, and some water taps are not potable. It's recommended to bring your own drinking water.
Facilities: Sani-station may be closed for repairs. Pit toilets are common, with flush toilets only at Green Point day-use area.
Accessibility
Vehicle-accessible campsites are available. The Beaver Pond Interpretive Trail and Deer Lake Trail are noted as easy and mostly level, making them suitable for families. The park features pit toilets throughout, and flush toilets at the Green Point day-use area. Access roads to campgrounds can be unpaved and dusty, requiring careful driving.
Don't miss
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Hicks Lake, Deer Lake, and Trout Lake for various water activities; Green Point day-use area on Harrison Lake for swimming and picnics; Hicks Lake Trail, Deer Lake Trail, and Beaver Pond Interpretive Trail for hiking.
Wildlife you might spot
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Good to know before you go
Book Camping Early
Campsites, especially during summer, are very popular and can fill up weeks or months in advance. Make reservations through BC Parks to secure your spot.
Bring Drinking Water
A boil water advisory has been noted for Hicks Lake, and not all water taps are potable. It's advisable to bring your own supply of safe drinking water.
Be Prepared for Rustic Amenities
While Green Point has flush toilets, most of the park's facilities, particularly in campgrounds, offer pit toilets and may lack showers.
Practice Wildlife Safety
Sasquatch Provincial Park is home to American Black Bears and other wildlife. Store food securely, keep your distance, and be aware of your surroundings. Pets must be leashed at all times, except when swimming in designated areas.
Protect Against Swimmer's Itch
If swimming in Hicks or Deer Lakes, dry off thoroughly with a towel immediately after exiting the water to minimize the risk of swimmer's itch.
Cycle on Roads Only
Bicycles, including e-bikes, are restricted to roadways within the park. Helmets are mandatory in British Columbia for cyclists.
Frequently asked questions
- A1: Sasquatch Provincial Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities including swimming, boating (motorized, electric, and non-motorized options across its various lakes), fishing, hiking on several trails, picnicking, and camping. Wildlife viewing is also a popular pastime.
- A2: Yes, Sasquatch Provincial Park features three vehicle-accessible campgrounds: Hicks Lake, Bench, and Lakeside (Deer Lake), along with a group campsite. The main camping season typically runs from April to October, with some campgrounds offering year-round access. Summer months are popular but require reservations well in advance due to high demand.
- A3: The park is home to diverse wildlife. Visitors might spot American Beavers along the Beaver Pond Trail, various birds like the Canada Goose, American Robin, and Red-breasted Sapsucker, and often Douglas's Squirrels. Larger mammals like American Black Bears and Mountain Goats (on the bluffs above Deer Lake) are also present. Smaller creatures such as Western Toads, Northern Red-legged Frogs, and Common Garter Snakes can also be observed.
Recent snaps at this place
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