Campbell Lake (Harrison Grind) - Image 1
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Campbell Lake Harrison Grind

4.4
·8 reviews·Agassiz, Canada

A challenging 11km hike with a rewarding summit view of Harrison Lake, known for its lush greenery and strenuous climb.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Campbell Lake (Harrison Grind) - Image 1

Campbell Lake Harrison Grind

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A challenging 11km hike with a rewarding summit view of Harrison Lake, known for its lush greenery and strenuous climb.

4.4
(8 reviews)

"The view at the top is worth every step of the challenging climb!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Leave the runners at home! Opt for proper hiking boots for better grip and ankle support on this rocky trail.

🚗 Drive Partway Up

On hot days, driving halfway up the trail can significantly shorten your hike.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Harrison Lake View

Panoramic Harrison Lake View

Summit viewpoint

The ultimate reward: a breathtaking vista overlooking Harrison Lake. Worth every step of the challenging climb.

Lush Greenery

Lush Greenery

Throughout the trail

Experience a unique abundance of greenery, a refreshing change from typical Vancouver hikes.

Strenuous Workout

Strenuous Workout

Entire trail

A challenging and rewarding climb that offers a serious fitness boost. Prepare for a good workout!

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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for the Grind

The Harrison Grind, also known as Campbell Lake Trail, is a strenuous 11km round trip hike. Expect a challenging climb that can take around 3.5 to 5 hours, so wear sturdy hiking boots and consider trekking poles. It's a mountain bike trail, so be aware of cyclists.

Timing is Everything

Avoid hot, sunny days by driving halfway up the trail if possible. This hike is not recommended for runners or on rainy days due to trail conditions. The rewarding view at the top makes the effort worthwhile, but there are no restrooms available.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer people on the trail
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn
Why
Cooler temps, beautiful foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Harrison Grind via Campbell Lake Trail
ihikesohard
6 likes • 391 views

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Leave the runners at home! Opt for proper hiking boots for better grip and ankle support on this rocky trail. Reddit

🚗 Drive Partway Up

On hot days, driving halfway up the trail can significantly shorten your hike. Reddit

Hiked up Campbell Lake Trail yesterday which is also known as the Harrison Grind! It’s about an 11km hike which took my friend and I about five hours😍 It has such a lovely view, as the amount of greenery on this hike was unique compared to the Vancouver hikes I was so used to doing🌲🌿This was my first time doing this hike as I found it very enjoyable. It consisted of a mix of everything from, a roc...
djc.fitness
52 likes • 1.5K views
A good strenuous workout climbing up the Campbell lake trail today. Did the hike solo in 3 hours round trip. This was the second time I've done this hike and the highlight is the the view point at the top over looking Harrison lake. #hiking #hikingadventures #hiker #workoutmotivation #fitness #grind #intothewild #forest #adventure
andrew_hikebike
13 likes • 222 views

🚶‍♀️ Trekking Poles Recommended

Hiking sticks can provide extra stability and reduce strain on your knees during the ascent. Reddit

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

There are no facilities, so bring enough water for your entire 3.5-5 hour hike. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Leave the runners at home! Opt for proper hiking boots for better grip and ankle support on this rocky trail. Reddit

🚗 Drive Partway Up

On hot days, driving halfway up the trail can significantly shorten your hike. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Trekking Poles Recommended

Hiking sticks can provide extra stability and reduce strain on your knees during the ascent. Reddit

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

There are no facilities, so bring enough water for your entire 3.5-5 hour hike. Reddit

🚴‍♂️ Watch for Bikes

This trail is also used by mountain bikers, so stay alert and yield when necessary. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(8 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Harrison Grind is a challenging but rewarding hike with a spectacular summit view of Harrison Lake. Hikers praise the lush greenery and the excellent workout it provides. However, be prepared for a rocky, unmaintained trail and the absence of facilities.

"I would recommend driving halfway and then hike up. Especially on hot sunny days. Also, it is not the most maintained trial, lots of rocks scattered around, so drive/walk carefully. Wear proper hiking gear and bring hiking stick if possible. It is not very steep. But it takes a long time, around 3.5 hours to the top. And the view is worth it! No restrooms by the way."

Ciel X

"Hard uphill hike, not for the timid.

Don't do it in runners or on rainy days."

gregory taylor

"A lookout with view of the Harrison Lake along less hiked Campbell Lake Trail, which is also dubbed the Harrison Grind."

Karen C

What People Like

Amazing summit view
Great workout
Lush greenery

What People Dislike

Rocky trail
No restrooms
Shared with bikes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Campbell Lake Trail, also known as the Harrison Grind, is accessible by car. Some visitors recommend driving halfway up the trail, especially on hot days, to shorten the hike. Reddit

Information on specific parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check recent trail reports or local forums for the most up-to-date parking information before your visit.

Public transport options to the trailhead are limited. Driving is the most common and practical way to access the Campbell Lake Trail. Reddit

Many hikers suggest driving partway up the trail to reduce the overall distance and effort, particularly during warmer weather. Reddit

The trail is described as not being the most maintained, with many rocks scattered around, so caution is advised. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is typically no entrance fee for accessing the Campbell Lake Trail, as it's a natural hiking area. However, it's always good to confirm any local regulations.

As a natural trail, the Harrison Grind is generally accessible at all times. However, hiking during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment. TikTok

No advance booking is required for the Campbell Lake Trail. It's a public trail that can be accessed freely.

While there are no specific entry restrictions, it's important to be aware that it's also a mountain bike trail, so hikers should be mindful of cyclists. Reddit

The Harrison Grind is a strenuous hike and may not be suitable for very young children or individuals with mobility issues due to its challenging nature. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The hike typically takes between 3.5 to 5 hours round trip, depending on your fitness level and pace. InstagramReddit

This is considered a hard, uphill hike and is not for the timid. It offers a strenuous workout. InstagramReddit

Wear proper hiking gear, including sturdy hiking boots. Avoid running shoes, especially on rainy days. Reddit

No, there are no restrooms available along the Campbell Lake Trail. Be prepared to go without facilities. Reddit

The highlight is the amazing view from the lookout point at the top, offering a stunning vista of Harrison Lake. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no food services directly at the trailhead. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and water for the hike. Reddit

While there are no designated picnic areas, you can enjoy a packed lunch at the summit viewpoint, provided you pack out all your trash.

After your hike, you can find dining options in the nearby town of Harrison Hot Springs, offering various cuisines.

High-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and fruits are ideal for fueling your body during a challenging hike like the Harrison Grind. Instagram

It's unlikely you'll find immediate food vendors near the trailhead. Plan to bring all your provisions with you.

📸 📸 Photography

The summit viewpoint offering panoramic views of Harrison Lake is the prime spot for photography. The lush forest also provides scenic shots. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic and beautiful lighting for your photos, especially at the summit. TikTok

A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the views. If you're serious about photography, a DSLR or mirrorless camera will offer more flexibility.

The main lookout at the top is the most celebrated viewpoint. Keep an eye out for smaller clearings along the trail that might offer unique perspectives. Instagram

Besides your camera, consider a portable charger for your phone, especially if you plan on taking many photos or videos. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Harrison Grind is a challenging hike and may not be suitable for very young children or families with strollers due to its length (11km round trip) and rocky terrain. Reddit If you do decide to tackle it with older, adventurous children, consider driving partway up the trail to shorten the distance. Reddit Ensure everyone has sturdy footwear, plenty of water, and high-energy snacks. The rewarding view at the top can be a great motivator for kids to reach the summit. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

The Harrison Grind is an excellent option for budget travelers as it's a free natural attraction. Reddit The main costs will be transportation to the trailhead and any snacks or water you bring. Instagram Since there are no facilities or entrance fees, it's a cost-effective way to experience the natural beauty of the area and get a great workout. Reddit

💪 Fitness Enthusiasts

For those looking for a serious workout, the Harrison Grind delivers. This strenuous uphill hike is a fantastic way to test your endurance and cardiovascular fitness. Instagram The consistent climb over several hours provides a comprehensive leg and core workout. TikTok Many hikers use it as a training hike for more demanding mountain ascents. Remember to listen to your body and stay hydrated. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Harrison Grind Experience

The Campbell Lake Trail, affectionately known as the Harrison Grind, is a popular but challenging hike near Harrison Hot Springs. It's an 11km round trip that ascends steadily, offering a significant workout. Many visitors recommend driving partway up the trail, especially on warmer days, to make the hike more manageable. The trail itself is described as rocky and not always perfectly maintained, so sturdy footwear is essential. Reddit

This trail is also a designated mountain bike trail, so hikers need to be aware of cyclists sharing the path. The journey through the forest is noted for its unique and abundant greenery, a refreshing change for those accustomed to other Vancouver-area hikes. Instagram The effort is widely considered worth it for the spectacular payoff at the summit. TikTok

Summit Views and Trail Conditions



The highlight of the Harrison Grind is undoubtedly the panoramic viewpoint at the top, offering breathtaking views of Harrison Lake. InstagramReddit While the climb is strenuous, it's not excessively steep, but its length requires endurance. Hikers often recommend bringing trekking poles for added stability and to ease the strain on joints. Reddit Be prepared for a lack of facilities, as there are no restrooms along the trail. Reddit

Preparing for Your Hike

Before embarking on the Harrison Grind, proper preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable experience. Footwear is paramount; ditch the running shoes and opt for sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and grip, as the trail is rocky and can be slippery, especially after rain. Reddit Many seasoned hikers also suggest bringing trekking poles to aid balance and reduce impact on your knees during the sustained ascent. Reddit

Hydration and nutrition are critical for this longer hike. Pack ample water, as there are no water sources or facilities along the trail. Reddit High-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and fruit will help keep your energy levels up throughout the 3.5 to 5-hour trek. Instagram Consider the weather; while the greenery is beautiful, sunny days can be very hot, making an early start or driving partway up the trail a wise strategy. Reddit

Finally, remember that the Harrison Grind is a multi-use trail. Be courteous and aware of mountain bikers who also use the path. Reddit A positive attitude and a sense of adventure will make this challenging but rewarding hike a memorable experience. TikTok

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