BEST TIME TO GO GRIZZLY BEAR WATCHING IN CANADA
There are three seasons for seeing grizzly and other bears in Canada. In spring, late April or May, they come out of hibernation and down to lower ground, usually grasslands, to feed and mate. This makes for great viewing from, for example, a boat where you are safely but happily glued to your binoculars. Summer is also good, but sightings are fewer, as the bears head to the hills to cool down from around June, and in many cases, to avoid people. However, you can combine it with some whale watching in British Columbia from late July, through August and September.
The autumn months, which start around late August in Canada are one of the best times to go grizzly bear watching, however, as it is the beginning of the salmon migratory season as they head upstream from coastal estuaries to spawn. And, consequently, out come the bears in their droves, during September, October and sometimes as late as November to catch them and feast before they go into hibernation. This is one of nature’s most exciting sights to behold. And exhausting, because they then go into hibernation during December, January, February and March.
What types of bear are found in Canada?
Brown bears are world’s most common bear and can weigh in as much as a massive 318kg. They can stand on two legs, reach almost two and a half metres tall and they spend a lot of time being solitary. Except when the salmon migratory season begins, and then it’s all paws on deck.
Black bears
- The most commonly spotted of Canada’s bears, they’re found throughout most of Canada.
- They prefer the solitude of the forest, but can sometimes be lured into towns in search of an easy meal.
- Excellent climbers — you might see a sow ushering her cubs up the nearest pine tree out of harm’s way.
Grizzly bears
- Fiercely territorial and often hard to find, and one of North America’s largest predators.
- Their thick coat of fur can vary in shade from blonde to dark brown, and they’ve a distinctive hump on their shoulders.
- They can live into their mid-twenties and follow quite solitary lives except during salmon-run season, when groups gather along riverbanks to catch their fill.
Kermode ‘spirit’ bears
- These white-coated bears are the rarest of all North American bear species.
- They’re actually black bears with a double-recessive gene that gives them their lighter shade; it’s possible to see a female spirit bear guiding her much darker black bear cubs.
- Revered by First Nations people, they’re only found in British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest.
The Bear Whisperer
You will experience exceptional grizzly bear viewing on salmon filled rivers where the bears feast, readying themselves for winter hibernation, with the snow-capped Cariboo Mountains as a backdrop. Along with grizzlies, you also get to watch eagles, waterfowl and other wildlife. Three, four and five night packages available.
Walk with the Grizzlies
An exhilarating, adrenaline pumping adventure walking the salmon infested rivers among the bears and spawning salmon. See what’s around that next bend in the river. With the sounds of salmon splashing and eagles crying overhead watch the grizzlies in the heart of nature’s buffet. Three, four and five night packages available.
Limited on time? How about a day trip?
If you are looking to experience wildlife as part of a more varied itinerary, you may wish to simply add a day trip. We have a selection of options for you to choose from, each departing from a different part of British Columbia.
Grizzly Bear Tours from Campbell River
Grizzly Bear Tour from Prince Rupert
Grizzly Bear Tour from Tofino
Contact us if you want to know more…
