
Hicks Lake
A serene, hidden gem lake offering warm waters for swimming, kayaking to secluded islands, and peaceful nature trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds

Hicks Lake
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, hidden gem lake offering warm waters for swimming, kayaking to secluded islands, and peaceful nature trails.
"Hicks Lake is a hidden gem! The water is clean, calm, and surprisingly warm - perfect for swimming."

🚗 Drive Carefully
The last few miles to the lake have potholes. Go slow and steady! :car:
🕸️ Morning Hike Prep
Bring a stick to clear spiderwebs on early morning hikes. :hiking_boot:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kayaking to Islands
Hicks Lake
Paddle to secluded islands for a peaceful escape on calm, warm waters. Perfect for a quiet picnic.

Beaver Pond Trail
Adjacent to campsite
A short, scenic 20-minute loop with boardwalks and informative signs about local wildlife.

Swimming in Warm Waters
Hicks Lake
Enjoy the surprisingly warm and clean water, ideal for a refreshing dip on a sunny day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Road Conditions
Wildlife Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Harrison Hotsprings Overnight Trip - Any Advice?
🚗 Drive Carefully
The last few miles to the lake have potholes. Go slow and steady! :car:
🕸️ Morning Hike Prep
Bring a stick to clear spiderwebs on early morning hikes. :hiking_boot:
Sasquatch Park B.C., Hicks Lake Camping
Any secret place to go near Harrison HotSpring?
🐻 Wildlife Safety
Be aware of bears. Carry bear spray for peace of mind on trails. :bear:
🛶 Kayak Adventure
Explore small islands for quiet beaches and scenic views. :kayak:
Harrison Hot Springs?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully
The last few miles to the lake have potholes. Go slow and steady! :car:
🕸️ Morning Hike Prep
Bring a stick to clear spiderwebs on early morning hikes. :hiking_boot:
🐻 Wildlife Safety
Be aware of bears. Carry bear spray for peace of mind on trails. :bear:
🛶 Kayak Adventure
Explore small islands for quiet beaches and scenic views. :kayak:
🏕️ Campsite Amenities
Sites have water, pit toilets, and garbage bins. Book ahead! :tent:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hicks Lake is lauded as a beautiful, hidden gem with clean, warm waters perfect for swimming and kayaking. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and scenic trails, though the rough road access and potential for wildlife encounters are noted drawbacks.
"Nice place with stunning views. It was raining when we went and couldn't spend much time. The last few miles of the road to the lake is terrible and filled with potholes on either side of the road. Need some attention from authorities to fix the road. That made the experience very unpleasant. Just drive safely if you have to visit the lake."
Ram J
"INCREDIBLE, BEAUTIFUL hike. I do recommend being prepared. If you go early, there will be a lot of spider webs on the path. You need a stick. We didn't see a another human the entire hike. Very nice walk, easy difficulty. We saw the bear poop and knew he was around. We only had one can of Bubbly with us. We were city slickers not prepared at all. The threat of the bear is real."
Ponda Baba
"Hicks Lake is a hidden gem! The water is clean, calm, and surprisingly warm - perfect for swimming. It’s a great spot for kayaking, with a few small islands you can paddle to and relax on their quiet, scenic beaches. Peaceful and beautiful, it’s a perfect escape into nature."
Zoi Tatani
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The road leading to Hicks Lake can be rough, especially the last few miles, with numerous potholes. Visitors advise driving slowly and cautiously. If you're towing a trailer, take your time and navigate carefully.
Yes, Hicks Lake is accessible by car. However, be prepared for the challenging road conditions mentioned above. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the drive.
Boats on Hicks Lake are restricted to a maximum of 7.5kW, which is equivalent to a 10HP motor. This ensures a peaceful experience for all visitors.
While specific directions can vary, the key is to be prepared for the final stretch of road. Many visitors find the drive manageable if they proceed with caution and at a reduced speed.
While a standard car can make it, an SUV or a vehicle with higher clearance might offer a more comfortable ride due to the potholes. However, with careful driving, most vehicles can manage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hicks Lake offers a day-use area and campsites. While specific entry fees aren't always mentioned, it's common for provincial parks or recreation areas to have day-use fees or camping charges. It's best to check local park regulations or expect potential fees.
Hicks Lake is generally accessible for day use during daylight hours. Campsites operate on a reservation system, typically with check-in and check-out times. Specific hours can vary by season.
Yes, campsites at Hicks Lake are available for booking in advance. This is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
Typically, no special permits are required for general day use or camping at Hicks Lake, beyond standard park access or camping fees. However, always check with the managing authority for any specific regulations.
While not explicitly stated in all reviews, pets are generally allowed in provincial parks and recreation areas, often on a leash. Always confirm local rules regarding pets.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Hicks Lake is great for swimming, kayaking, paddling, and hiking. The Beaver Pond Trail is a popular short walk. Campsites offer a base for enjoying the lake and surrounding nature.
Yes, the water at Hicks Lake is described as clean, calm, and surprisingly warm, making it an excellent spot for swimming.
Yes, there are walking trails, including the popular Beaver Pond Trail, which is a short loop offering scenic views and wildlife information.
Campsites offer trailer and tenting spots, water taps, pit toilets, and garbage/recycling bins. Some sites have lake views. The gravel road to the campsites can be rough.
During early mornings or off-peak times, Hicks Lake can be very quiet, with visitors reporting not seeing another soul on the hike. Summer mornings tend to be less crowded than afternoons.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself offers stunning views, especially during golden hour. The islands accessible by kayak provide unique perspectives. The Beaver Pond Trail also offers scenic photo opportunities.
While not a primary focus, the Beaver Pond Trail offers chances to see local wildlife and capture nature shots. Be aware of bear signs if you venture further.
Late afternoons, during the golden hour, are ideal for capturing the beautiful light on the lake and surrounding landscape. Early mornings can also be serene.
Look for reflections on the calm water, the unique scenery of the small islands, and the natural beauty along the Beaver Pond Trail.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A polarizing filter can enhance water and sky colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When camping, the available amenities like water taps and pit toilets are convenient for families. However, be mindful of the rough road conditions leading to the lake and campsites, and ensure your vehicle is suitable. Also, remember to educate children about wildlife safety, especially regarding bears, and consider bringing bear spray for peace of mind during hikes.
🛶 Kayakers and Paddlers
Remember the motor restriction (10HP max) which ensures a peaceful environment for paddlers. The lake's size is manageable for a day of exploration, and the warm water makes it inviting for a refreshing dip after a good paddle. Pack accordingly for a day on the water, including sun protection and water.
🏕️ Campers Seeking Solitude
Be prepared for the rough access road when towing an RV or trailer. Booking campsites in advance is recommended. The nearby Beaver Pond Trail provides a short, enjoyable activity right from your campsite. For those seeking a quiet retreat surrounded by nature, Hicks Lake camping delivers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Road to Hicks Lake
This road condition is a significant factor for planning your visit. It's advisable to check your vehicle's tires and suspension before heading out. If you're not comfortable with rough terrain or are driving a low-clearance vehicle, consider the potential challenges. Despite the road, many visitors find the destination to be a 'hidden gem' worth the effort, emphasizing that 'slow and steady' is the key to a successful arrival.
Embracing the Natural Solitude
The surrounding area also contributes to the serene experience. The Beaver Pond Trail, a short loop adjacent to the campsite, offers a pleasant walk with interesting scenery, boardwalks, and informative signs about local wildlife. The campsites themselves are nestled among trees, providing a natural setting. Some visitors have reported not seeing another human during their entire hike, highlighting the profound sense of solitude and connection with nature that Hicks Lake provides.
Wildlife Encounters and Safety
For those planning to hike or explore the trails, it's wise to take precautions. Bringing a stick, as suggested by one reviewer, can be helpful for clearing spiderwebs in the early morning and can also serve as a deterrent if needed. Carrying bear spray is also a recommended safety measure for anyone venturing into the wilderness areas around Hicks Lake. This awareness ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for all visitors.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit