The Great Bear Rainforest

There are three species of Bear in North America, and yet when you say ‘Great Bear’ we all only think of one: the Great Grizzly Bear.

Much mystery, legend, and respect is given to the Great Bear by all cultures at all times. None respect the Great Bear more than the Native American. With the encroachment of the development of man, the Great Bears have retreated in numbers. In one of the largest tracts of temperate rainforest left in the world, the Great Bear Rainforest is attempting to reverse this trend. Located on the west coast of British Columbia, this lush two million hectare forest is the home to many animals, birds and plants, but is the now reserved domain of the Great Bear.

Amongst the Sitka and the one thousand year old Cedars, roam the kings of the North American animal kingdom, the Bears. In an area approximately the size of Ireland, you’ll find one of the largest concentrations of Grizzly Bears in British Columbia. Feeding on the rich salmon streams, the Grizzly in this part of Canada is usually larger than his brother the Rocky Mountain Grizzly – although I’ve seen some photos that may disagree with that rule! Not alone in the inhabitation of this pristine reserve, the Grizzly shares the land with his cousins the Black Bear and the elusive and enigmatic Spirit Bear.

Don’t just think that the bear is the only host in this wilderness setting; you may also spot wolves, cougar, sea lions, humpback whales, orcas, and Eagles amongst hundreds of species.

This area is effectively roadless, so it’s water viewing or hiking when you explore – of course it goes without saying that you would need to take advantage of the services of a professional guide. Our recommendation is that you take in one of the Knight Inlet cruises (there are only two operators) which will try and get you close enough to photograph the Grizzlies as they fish salmon. Usually mid-August is pegged as the best time to see thousands of salmon return to river estuaries, and the Bears are generally most active early morning and late afternoon. Another option while you’re there is to take in a Whale Watching tour in this spot where Canada truly meets the ocean.

There are options on a few different places to stay, with arrivals generally by floatplane, but we have strong recommendations on dealing with a firm that has the most interactive and professional programme. This is one of the world’s most unforgettable experiences; you will want to be in the hands of a professional to make the most out of it.

For professional care and courtesy as you reach out to the Great Bears, you can trust Imagine Travel 02 4296 9822.