Deer Lake

Deer Lake in Harrison is a super short out-and-back wander that feels more like a campground stroll than a full-on hike. At just 2.1 km with only 54 m of elevation gain and a max altitude around 233 m, it’s an easy leg-stretcher that usually takes about half an hour. It’s a low-commitment option if you’re already staying in the nearby Deer Lake campgrounds and want a quick walk away from your campsite.

The first part of the Deer Lake trail, especially out to The Point, is the highlight. A good chunk of it is boardwalk, with easy grades and mellow lakeside forest vibes rather than big viewpoints or dramatic scenery. You’re mostly walking through trees with occasional peeks toward the water, so think relaxed campground nature walk, not big mountain mission.

Recent hikers report that beyond The Point the Deer Lake trail gets very overgrown, with lots of debris and unclear markings, and many people are turning back rather than pushing through the brush. Right now, the smart move is to enjoy the well-maintained section to The Point, then call it a day instead of trying to force the rest of the route. Expect the best conditions from late spring to early fall, start from the campground area off Rockwell Drive, and bring a map or GPS if you’re tempted to explore beyond the obvious main path, as the overgrowth makes it easy to lose the trail.