A Guide from Tweedsmuir Park Lodge, British Columbia
Bear Safety & Coexistence
The Great Bear Rainforest is one of the most ecologically rich and intact temperate rainforests on Earth, and Bella Coola, British Columbia, is internationally renowned for responsible grizzly bear viewing. This remarkable region is home to both grizzly bears and black bears, and for generations, people and bears have coexisted here.
For nearly two decades, Tweedsmuir Park Lodge has guided visitors on Grizzly Bear Safaris through this landscape with a clear priority: human safety, bear welfare, and long-term coexistence. Our wildlife experiences are led by Commercial Bear Viewing Association (CBVA) certified guides, operate under BC Parks approved protocols, and are shaped by deep local knowledge, research, and lived field experience.
This page is designed to provide clear, trustworthy information on bear safety, how to behave in bear country, and how Tweedsmuir Park Lodge manages safe, ethical bear viewing in Bella Coola.
Table of Contents
How to Be Safe in Bear Country
Being safe in bear country begins with awareness, preparation, and respect. Bears are not aggressive by nature, and most incidents occur when bears are surprised, stressed, or feel threatened.
Below are core bear safety principles used by professional guides across British Columbia.
1
Make Noise:
Talk, clap, or sing when moving through dense vegetation, around blind corners, or near noisy streams. Alerting bears to your presence gives them time to move away.
2
Travel in Groups:
Groups are easier for bears to detect and are generally perceived as less vulnerable. Group travel also increases awareness and communication.
3
Stay Alert:
Scan ahead and around you. Watch for fresh tracks, scat, diggings, or feeding areas, especially near rivers and berry patches.
4
Manage Attractants:
Never leave food, wrappers, or scented items accessible. Secure all attractants and pack out everything you bring in.
5
Respect Distance:
If you see a bear, give it space. Approaching wildlife, even for photos, increases risk for both people and bears.
6
Follow Local Guidance:
Conditions change throughout the bear season in BC, and local expertise matters. Always follow posted signs, park guidance, and professional instructions.
Our Shared Mission
Safety & Risk Awareness
You’re in good hands. Our certified guides are experienced, thoughtful, and fully focused on your safety. We’ll guide you through our safety guidelines, what we’ll ask of you, and how we’ll explore the wilderness together.
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This is your pre-adventure toolkit—smart steps to help you arrive prepared, present, and ready to take it all in.
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Curious about how to get here, when to visit, what to pack, and what’s included? These are the details you’ll want to know before you lock in your trip.
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