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Many regard the opportunity to observe the elusive grizzly as one of extreme rarity and perhaps luck. However, in Canada these magnificent creatures are wonderfully commonplace, if you know where to look. The sheer excitement and rush of adrenaline achieved by sighting one of these larger-than-life mammals is not easily forgotten. For a truly thrilling and heart-pounding experience head to one of these top 6 locations for bear watching in Canada that offer the likeliest, and best observation points to enjoy these amazing animals both at work and play! 1. Khutzeymateen Grizzly Sanctuary This first official grizzly sanctuary is regarding by many fans as the top location for bear watching. The best time of year for this activity in Canada is between May and September. Only a handful of licensed operators can help you gain access to the protected areas of the park where 50 to 60 grizzlies are known to live. Visitors report that the photo opportunities are stunning and the experience is unforgettable. 2. Bella Coola During the months from August through October head to the remote Bella Coola Valley for the best chance to spot the black or grizzly in this perfect habitat. Tours are offered to the nearby Princess Royal Island for the opportunity to perhaps see the elusive, white coated Kermode (Spirit) Bear. 3. Whistler Whistler is a prime destination for bear watching in Canada. The forests surrounding the village are a known habitat for 60 black bears and sightings are fairly frequent. Viewing options include exciting 4x4 exploration of the wilderness, observation perches or simply driving south toward Callaghan Valley where enthusiasts and local residents describe excellent spotting records. 4. Tofino For a truly intimate look at black bears in their natural habitat take a boat trip from Tofino harbour along the calm waters of the Clayoquot Sound. The shores of the sound are a favourite feeding spot for many of these mammals who forage for rock crabs close to the water. This is an amazing way of observing these magnificent animals both safely and without the risk of disturbing them. 5. Knight Inlet During the months of May through October bear watching in Canada, and especially in this secluded inlet, is a hugely rewarding experience. It is fairly common to be fortunate enough to see up to a dozen bears, including grizzlies, along the waterways of the Knight Inlet. In the summer the area is home to numerous Orca sightings as well as bears. In the autumn, take advantage of the perfectly positioned viewing platforms to enjoy a day of observing grizzlies as they catch salmon in the nearby Glendale River. 6. Blue River The stunning beauty of this community’s landscape, comprised of mountain ranges, glaciers and waterfalls, makes a day of bear watching even more enjoyable. This is prime bear-spotting territory and river tours run every 30 to 60 mins to deliver you to the best vantage points for observing the wildlife species that live in the area. A trip to the Blue River community should always extend to the nearby Wells Gray Provincial Park for excellent hiking and boating opportunities surrounded by epically stunning alpine meadows and rushing waterfalls. Magnificent Creatures and Where to Find Them Bear watching in Canada is much more than an idle tourist attraction. The country takes preserving the numbers of these amazing animals, and the health of their habitats, very seriously. Consequently, viewing them is safe, rewarding and non-intrusive. The thrilling rush of seeing, and hearing, one of these impressive mammals in their natural space is truly an experience of a lifetime. Richard Edwards is the Managing Director of Summit & Blue, an adventure holiday company offering independently crafted holidays to destinations around the world, including France, Italy, Portugal, USA and Canada. If you're looking for a unique adventure, like the chance to go bear watching in Canada, ski touring, biking, hiking, white water rafting or canoeing, we create exciting itineraries for those looking for an experience a little more off the beaten track.
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