One of Prince Rupert's most well-known and remarkable excursions entails viewing wild grizzly bears in their natural habitat in the Khutzeymateen Sanctuary, located about 28 miles northeast of the city.
Grizzly Bear Watching at Khutzeymateen
The Khutzeymateen Sanctuary, also called 'Valley of the Grizzly, is the only one of its kind in Canada. The park's name, Khutzeymateen is a Tsimshian First Nations word that means "sheltered place of fish and bears." Established in 1994, the park contains one of the largest populations of grizzly bears – about 50 – in British Columbia. The bears are protected from human activity and live freely, though people can observe them quietly from boats offshore. Along the shoreline, the magnificent creatures run, play and feed on salmon, mussels, barnacles and nutritious sedge, a grass-like plant that grows in the area.
Though sightings aren't guaranteed, tourists rarely return disappointed. Companies estimate a 90%-plus success rate.
Seeing grizzly Bears as they are meant to be viewed is an unforgettable experience. Depending on the time of year, black bears, eagles, seals, porpoises, sea lion, herons eagles and even whales may also be spotted.
Guided, Boat, Floatplane and Heli-Tours
Several companies offer tours to the sanctuary. Tourists can go on a half-day boat tour. Most tours are booked at the Atlin Terminal, the main tourist shopping centre, in Cow Bay, and leave from there at least three times a day. Choose between a larger boat that carries about 100 people or charter a private one. It's also possible to go to the Khutzeymateen in a floatplane or helicopter, then boat around the area to look for the bears. The plane ride offers incredible views of pristine mountain wilderness and the Pacific Ocean.
Three-Day Tours to the Sanctuary
Fly to the park and stay overnight as part of a longer, typically three-day tour to the sanctuary. These three-day excursions can include bear watching, a visit to a saltwater volcano and the opportunity to learn more about the local history of the area. Sleep in bunk beds in a float house near the dock. If the weather is favourable, camping on the dock is available. Bedding is provided.Prices range between about $400 and $1600 for the longer tour options.
Khutzeymateen tours are available between May and August. Peak grizzly bear viewing is mid-May to July but August is when the bears feed on the salmon. Dress warmly on a visit to the Sanctuary, as temperatures drop near the ocean.