Unique Grizzly Bear Viewing Location and Services

The Tweedsmuir Park Lodge, with 600 metres of frontage on the Atnarko River inside Tweedsmuir Provincial Park, is situated in the middle of one of the healthiest bear habitats in British Columbia. From the chalets and from our deck, it is often possible to see bears wandering past and occasionally we even catch them napping on the lawn.

Nevertheless, the best way to view the bears is to float the Atnarko River in one of our McKenzie drift boats. The groups are small and the pace leisurely. Most importantly,  because the bears are feasting on spawning Salmon, they are well fed and as a result are more tolerant of each other as well as passing people. On some occasions, our guests see 15-20  different Grizzly Bears in a single float.

The McKenzie drift boats are very stable and provide comfortable and elevated seating for up to four people. It is a perfect platform for photography as well as viewing. The McKenzie drift boats are not motorized and means we do not disturb the bears in their natural habitat. This creates a truly unique and inspiring bear viewing experience, very unlike most other commercial bear viewing hot spots.

All drifts are led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide. The drifts start and end at the lodge. If you are staying with us then there is no commuting to get to see the bears. They are all around and bear means you have more time to enjoy your wilderness experience.

The Grizzly Bear Viewing trips are in the autumn, from late August to the middle of October. This is when the local rivers are host to thousands of returning Salmon and the Grizzly Bears are intent on fattening up for the winter.

*Note    High season is Aug 24-Sept 27 / low season is May 28-Aug 23 and Sept 28-Oct 16

Please contact us by email or toll free 1.877.982.2407 for rates and customized tour options.

What to Bring

• Good worn in hiking shoes. Low or medium cut shoes are suitable for most hikes
• Small backpack for lunch, snacks, fluids and personal gear
• Comfortable pants
• Shirt, fleece or sweater
• Fleece or knitted hat, baseball cap or sun hat
• Thin gloves
• Change of socks
• Wind jacket and pants or thin rain gear
• 1 litre water bottle
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Camera with a large memory card for all those great shots
• Binoculars
• Personal medication if applicable

Important note:  Guests will be required to sign a waiver prior to this tour.