Nestled 50 air miles from Port Hardy in British Columbia, Great Bear Lodge is a floating wilderness sanctuary offering intimate grizzly bear viewing experiences in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest. This BBC-featured eco-lodge combines luxury with environmental consciousness, powered by wind and solar energy.
Eight well-appointed rooms with ensuite bathrooms provide comfort, while the common area serves as a hub for natural history presentations by resident wildlife biologists. The lodge’s wilderness-gourmet dining showcases fresh local ingredients, perfectly complementing days spent observing grizzlies in their natural habitat. From its strategic location, guests enjoy exclusive access to pristine bear viewing areas, making it an unparalleled destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Their story
Founded in 1999, Great Bear Lodge emerged as a premier grizzly bear viewing destination in British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest. The floating eco-lodge was established by owners Tom Rivest, a wildlife biologist, and Marg Leehane, along with their partners.
The lodge gained international recognition when BBC chose it as their filming base for “Secrets of Our Living Planet” series. National Geographic Adventure recognized it as “one of the best adventure travel companies on earth,” cementing its reputation in sustainable ecotourism. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The floating lodge, powered by wind and solar energy, minimizes its ecological footprint in the pristine Great Bear Rainforest. Built with natural materials, the eight-bedroom facility features wooden decks that harmoniously integrate with the wilderness setting.
- As the only wildlife viewing operation in its river system, the lodge maintains strict low-impact protocols to protect the local ecosystem and wildlife.
- Their commitment to sustainability extends to using organic, locally-sourced ingredients in their dining program and following responsible bear-viewing practices that preserve the natural behavior of the region’s grizzly bears.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Great Bear Lodge reflects its commitment to low-impact ecotourism through wind and solar-powered operations. This self-contained floating lodge runs entirely on renewable energy, sustainably powering its eight bedrooms, common areas, and facilities.
Pioneer in waste management
- All organic waste is composted on-site, while recyclable materials are carefully sorted and transported back to Port Hardy for proper processing.
- The lodge uses biodegradable cleaning products and minimizes single-use items.
- Their water conservation measures include low-flow fixtures and greywater recycling.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Great Bear Lodge prioritizes organic and natural ingredients in their wilderness-gourmet dining experience, sourcing the freshest local and organic ingredients whenever possible.
- Their commitment to eco-friendly practices extends to their cleaning and maintenance routines, using only natural, chemical-free products throughout the facility.
- Their culinary offerings feature locally-caught wild salmon and other regional specialties, prepared with natural seasonings and traditional cooking methods. All meals are customizable to accommodate various dietary restrictions while maintaining their chemical-free, organic standards.
Actively protects nature and community
- As founders of the Commercial Bear Viewing Association, they actively protect wild bears and their ecosystems. The lodge’s intimate setting, limited to 18 guests, ensures minimal environmental impact while fostering authentic wilderness experiences. Their wildlife biologists follow strict viewing protocols, safeguarding the natural behavior of grizzlies and other species in the Great Bear Rainforest. This dedication helps preserve this ecological marvel for future generations.
Most Popular Activities Near Great Bear Lodge
- Grizzly bear viewing sessions twice daily from specialized viewing platforms or boats.
- Guided wilderness activities between bear viewings including interpretive walks and boat excursions.
- Wildlife photography opportunities with professional biologists.
- Natural history presentations by wildlife experts in the lodge’s common area.
- Bird watching for species like bald eagles, hummingbirds, and diverse waterfowl.
- Gourmet wilderness dining featuring fresh local ingredients and organic foods.
- Access to extensive natural history library for self-guided learning.
- Seaplane flights between Port Hardy and the lodge offering aerial views.
- Evening relaxation on natural wood decks overlooking pristine wilderness.
- Optional seasonal activities based on wildlife patterns (spring estuary viewing, summer berry season, autumn salmon runs).
- Exploring some of the most visited national parks in BC.
Best Time To Visit Great Bear Lodge
- The best time to visit Great Bear Lodge varies by season, each offering unique wildlife experiences.
- Spring (May-June) provides excellent opportunities for photography and birdwatching, with grizzlies grazing on estuaries and engaging in mating behavior.
- Summer (July-August) offers warmer weather and diverse wildlife viewing, including humpback whales and seal pups.
- Autumn (September-October) is peak season for bear watching as salmon runs attract the largest concentration of grizzlies and cubs. This period also draws numerous bald eagles and other birds.
- The lodge closes after mid-October as bears prepare for hibernation.