Kathryn Hodgson

Kathryn Hodgson

Senior Destination Manager - Western Canada & Alaska

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Beyond the bright lights of Vancouver, in western British Columbia, lies a vast paradise of wilderness and wildlife experiences. Choose from luxurious secluded hideaways, rustic retreats, First Nations owned and operated properties or unique floating lodges, all surrounded by stunning landscapes.

No two days are the same when exploring Western Canada’s vast wilderness. There are a range of experiences to choose from depending on which wildlife you’d like to see and your perfect style of accommodation. From grizzly bears to bald eagles and luxury resorts to traditional lodge-style accommodation, here’s a short guide of what to expect...

Getting To & From Your Wilderness or Wildlife Experience

Reaching your chosen accommodation can be just as enjoyable as the experience itself. You might arrive by a scenic boat or floatplane ride, or you can easily combine some experiences into a fly drive or motorhome holiday.

 

Farewell Harbour Lodge, Canada
Farewell Harbour Lodge

Accommodation & Facilities

Due to their remote locations and focus on wildlife viewing or adventure activities, in most cases you should expect basic yet comfortable accommodation with a more rustic feel. However, Trailfinders offer something to suit all tastes, be that a glamping-style tented experience, or a standalone lodge room featuring First Nations artworks. The same can be said of facilities, while many people are content to relax in a communal lounge or beside a campfire under the stars, some prefer a dip in the pool or to indulge in a spa treatment before enjoying a restaurant-standard meal.

 

Tweedsmuir Park Lodge, Canada
Tweedsmuir Park Lodge

Meals

Full Board is offered by most properties, with selected soft drinks and sometimes house wine or beer. Meals are generally taken communally, and menus can vary daily, usually featuring locally sourced produce.


Wildlife Viewing & Activities

Depending on where you stay, wildlife viewing might be taken on foot, by boat or from strategically placed viewing platforms. Remember, while bears are active from around May to October, in some destinations they’re more commonly spotted from August, therefore if bear viewing is on your bucket list let your travel consultant know so they can recommend the best option.

Aside from bears, you can look forward to viewing a range of flora and fauna including whales and birdlife, while some lodges have activity-focussed packages including kayaking and wilderness trekking. 

Please note, included wildlife viewing and excursions can vary greatly by each lodge and are always subject to change depending on weather and local conditions.

 

Knight Inlet Lodge, Canada
Knight Inlet Lodge

So, how to choose the right experience for you? Below are our top picks for…

…Luxury

Offering refined accommodation, great facilities and à la carte dining, choose from tented luxury at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, or a hotel-style stay at renowned Sonora Resort. Perfect for a wilderness experience with opportunities for wildlife viewing, but more focus on personalised activities and service.

…First Nations Culture

Owned by the Klahoose and Kitasoo Xai’xais First Nations respectively, Klahoose Wilderness Resort and Spirit Bear Lodge offer a unique opportunity to connect with those who have called this land home for thousands of years and support their admirable conservation and preservation efforts.

…Wilderness Activities

While offering amazing bear viewing opportunities from Aug - Oct, Tweedsmuir Park Lodge is ideal for an activity packed escape. Whether on their Summer Escape or Bear Adventure, enjoy free use of mountain bikes, nature walks and the wildlife viewing stations.

 

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, Canada
Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge

…Family Owned

Owned and operated by two families and in agreement with the Mamalilikulla First Nation, on whose territory Farewell Harbour Lodge is located, this charming lodge is run by passionate locals offering friendly service in a home away from home environment, with ample wildlife viewing opportunities!

…Immersion In Nature

If you’re looking to forget the frills and focus on the thrill of bear viewing, look no further than Great Bear Lodge or Knight Inlet Lodge. Each located in the mighty Great Bear Rainforest and only accessible by floatplane, get ready for total wilderness immersion, hosted by expert guides.

…Something Different

You don’t have to head too far into the wilderness for an exhilarating experience! Head to Tofino for a stay at Tofino Resort & Marina, a unique hotel with an adventure centre and whale watching tours. Exploring the Sunshine Coast by car? Add a stop at West Coast Wilderness Lodge, with opportunities to explore sheltered inlets by boat tour or kayak.

 

Farewell Harbour Lodge, Canada
Farewell Harbour Lodge

For more inspiration, take a look at our Canada Holidays pages.