Time of year
Late June to Late August
Activity Overview
To gain a full appreciation of this magnificent part of the world, it is best to venture out with a local guide who will draw on their own personal experiences and knowledge of the area to share information about the various temperate climate zones and their ecology. Together, these factors make the Bella Coola Valley one of the most interesting and biodiverse places to visit in the world.
They will also share their knowledge of the specific plants and animals that are native to the area. The stories shared will help to provide context to the geography and history that gave rise to this incredible landscape.
This will ensure that the guests time is memorable and that they come away with a deeper understanding for how interconnected and magical this landscape truly is.
These eco-tours involve approximately 2 hours of light to moderate walking on uneven forest trails. They are ideal for people that love being out in the forest and slowing down to spend time learning about their environment.
Quick Facts
- Who Should Book?
- This educational experience is designed for guests looking to gain in-depth knowledge about the ecology and biology of the plants and animals that make up the Great Bear Rainforest ecosystem
- Content can be tailored to the specific interests of the group and will vary based on the passions, education, skills, and experience of the guide
- Safety & Mobility Considerations
- This activity requires a low level of physical fitness and can be tailored to the mobility level of the group members
- Trails are rated easy; however, guests should be fit enough to walk up and down slight inclines and declines on uneven root and rock covered terrain
- Guides are trained in Advanced Wilderness First Aid
- Minimum Age
- 2+ as part of a Private Group or 12+ as part of a Small Group
What to Bring
- Comfortable closed-toe trail or hiking shoes
- Comfortable layered clothing that is appropriate for variable weather conditions, wind protection, and possible rain
- A small backpack for snacks, fluids, and other important personal items
- A hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and bug spray are highly recommended
- A camera to capture the experience
Sample Itinerary
- Start - This activity begins at Tweedsmuir Park Lodge
- Before the tour, guests will be briefed on how to act and react to wildlife, and will learn the etiquette for exploring these unique and sensitive ecosystems
- Guests walk to the Esker Trail or board one of our shuttles and transfer to one of two additional main trailheads:
- The Esker Trail - walk to from the lodge · 2.2 kms round-trip · easy
- Kettle Pond - 5 min drive from the lodge · distance varies · easy
- The Tote Road - 10 min drive from the lodge · distance varies · easy
- With the half day program guests can expect approx. 2 hours of walking at a slow pace and will return to the lodge for lunch (morning) or dinner (afternoon)
- With the full day program guests can expect approx. 5 hours of walking at a slow pace and will enjoy lunch in the field of back at the lodge
- Along the way commentary and explanation is provided by the guide and there are opportunities to take photographs at various points of interest
Note: Guests should be encouraged to ask questions and to actively participate in discussions with the guide.
- End - This activity ends back at the trailhead where the walk began
- Guests board one of our shuttles for the drive back to Tweedsmuir Park Lodge
- Upon arrival back at the lodge, guests enjoy a delicious lunch (morning departures) or apres on the deck (afternoon departures) if they have purchased one of our all-inclusive packages
Note: Capacity is limited in each of our activities and we prioritize space for guests staying at the lodge. That being said, we occasionally have space for guests not staying at the lodge. If you will not be staying with us and would like to book this activity, please contact us by phone at 604-905-4994 or by email at [email protected].
