Grizzly Bear Expedition
Has a Grizzly crossed YOUR path yet?
If not, this is your opportunity to see WILD and MAJESTIC Grizzlies in their natural habitat, far away from the impact of human civilization. Amidst a landscape of towering mountain peaks, glaciers and merging rivers with spawning salmon and Grizzly bears fishing and fattening up for their winter hibernation.
Departing from the Fisherman’s Wharf in Campbell River, our Grizzly Bear Expedition starts with a 2 hour adventure by boat through some of the most spectacular scenery you can imagine to reach the Orford Valley. This area is an ancient indigenous hunting and fishing camp located in Bute Inlet on BC’s rugged mainland coast. Bute Inlet marks the southern reaches of the Great Bear Rainforest.
On docking at Orford Bay, we are welcomed to the traditional territory of the Homalco First Nations and the indigenous guides of Homalco Wildlife Tours, our hosts and partners for this tour. You will be transported by mini bus to a series of strategically placed viewing areas and stands deep in Grizzly habitat along centuries old salmon spawning grounds.
Your experience on land is led by our Homalco First Nation hosts and indigenous guides who will give you an insight into their culture and stewardship role and how the Orford Salmon Enhancement Hatchery and your contribution by way of the environmental fee included in the cost of your tour contributes to increasing the population of native fish species in the rivers.
Your knowledgeable guides will point out areas of historic interest, introduce you to their language and interpret the behaviour of the bears while keeping you safe. You will look for bears in their natural habitat from viewing points and stands positioned along the meandering river beds that allow guests to observe these magnificent animals at a remarkably close distance, listen, smell and connect with the bears and their environment safely without disturbing them. Your time on land will give you a deeper insight in to the importance of preserving the fragile eco-systems that our wildlife and indigenous peoples depend on.
