When to go
Spring
As the rainforest awakens from winter, Grizzly and Black Bears emerge from hibernation and return to the coastal fringes. Here, they feed on nutrient-rich sedge grass and forage for clams along the shoreline, an essential first step in replenishing their energy after a long winter’s rest. Around the same time, the waters surrounding Farewell Harbour Lodge come alive in June as Humpback whales return from their migration, often with newborn calves in tow.
Summer
During the summer months, the bears often retreat deeper into the forests and mountains, foraging for berries and other natural food sources. The wilderness remains alive with subtle signs of their presence, offering keen-eyed visitors the chance for quiet, unforgettable encounters. From mid-July to late September, Johnstone Strait offers some of the best opportunities to encounter orcas in their natural habitat.
Autumn
As the salmon return to the rivers to spawn, Grizzly and Black Bears descend from the high country to feast in preparation for the coming winter. This spectacular natural event provides one of the most dramatic and rewarding opportunities to observe bears in their element.
