Description
2025 THE GREAT BEAR RAINFOREST GRIZZLIES IN FALL
Dates: October 3 - 7, 2025
Spots: 5
Costs: $6995 + GST Based on double occupancy
Each fall when the salmon return to spawn, Bella Coola becomes home to some of the highest concentrations of grizzly bears in the world. Join me at Tweedsmuir Park Lodge a member of the magnificent seven wilderness lodges of Canada for an unparalleled experience of grizzlies bears fishing for salmon in the stunning colors of fall in the pristine Bella Coola Valley. We will spend our days drifting down the Atnarko River, walking through the forest with our bear guide looking for bears or viewing bears from the lodge's private bear viewing platform. Bald eagles are abundant in this region and provide great photography opportunities when the bears are less active. I will provide in-field instruction and evening critiques to ensure you get the best photos possible on your tour.
“Donna, your dedication to creating unique experiences and providing personal attention is truly inspiring. You're an incredible photographer and instructor!” - Monica
What is included
- All meals and snacks
- All drinks including domestic beer and wine
- Bear guides for river drafts and walking explorations
- In-feld instruction and evening critiques
- Transfer to and from Bella Coola airport
- Luxurious accommodations in chalets with lofts
- Hot tub and sauna
What is not included
- Gratuity for guides and hospitality staff
- Airfare to Bella Coola
What to expect
This area of the Atnarko is picturesque and serene, the drift down the river is relaxing and tranquil as the bears quietly fish for salmon along its shores or dive underwater to feast on salmon eggs. Enjoy the gorgeous mountains and fall colors as we slowly meander downstream for almost 3 hours.
The walks with the guide throughout the day can be tailored to ability level. If walking poses a significant challenge you can always remain at the lodge and watch for bears from the lodge's private viewing platform. You will all likely have the platform to yourself as the lodge is exclusive with only 12 cabins making for an intimate atmosphere. Staff quickly learn your name and make you feel welcome when you arrive.
In the evenings you can choose to review photos from the day by the fireplace, take a relaxing sauna, or enjoy the soothing waters of the hot tub.
This trip can be tailored for people with mobility issues. Please email me if you want to learn more about this option.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive at the lodge by 1:30 pm. A bear guide will provide a bear orientation in the afternoon. You can enjoy the bear viewing platform and we will meet for dinner in the main lodge at 7pm.
Day 2 - 4 The bear viewing platform opens at 7 am., You can look for bears, review your images from the day before, or exercise in the workout room. Ensure you have grabbed breakfast by 8:30 as we will meet at 8:45am each morning for our first bear excursion. Each day we will alternate between a river drift for part of the day and a walk with a bear gude for the other part. We are usually back from the first excursion by 11:45 am giving you a few minutes to get those batteries charging before lunch which you can enjoy between noon and 1pm. We will regroup at 1:45pm for our afternoon excursion returning by 5pm. This gives plenty of time to freshen up, download images, or enjoy the bear viewing platform before we all meet for dinner at 7 pm. I will be available each evening after dinner to review images and provide feedback and tips for editing.
Day 5 - The morning is your own to enjoy in this picturesque location with check out at 11am. I am available to go over images or join you at the viewing platform that morning.
What will the weather be like?
- It will be mild usually between 6 - 14C this time of year. However, it may be raining so bring raingear with you. The lodge also has rain gear available.
- An updated forecast will be provided closer to the actual date of the tour.
What should you bring?
- Warm clothes that can be layered and hiking boots.
- Plenty of batteries.
- You can use a variety of lens sizes a 100-500mm zoom would be ideal or a 400 or 600mm lens.
Payment Schedule
- A $1500 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking
- $3000 due February 1, 2025 or at time of booking if after February 1
- Remainder of balance due June 15, 2025 or at the time of booking if after June 15
Cancellation and Refund Policies
- A $1500 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking
- All cancellations must be received by email.
- The amount refunded is dependent on the date of cancellation:
- Prior to April 30- full refund of the amount paid at the time of cancellation less the non-refundable deposit
- April 30 - June 15 - 50% of the balance that was due February 1 plus the full amount of any remaining balance that was paid less the non-refundable deposit
- After June 16 - non refundable
2025 The Great Bear Rainfor...
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