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We've compiled the best of the best in British Columbia - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Boo, an adult grizzly bear, has called this 20-acre forested area in the middle of the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort home since 2002. Although born in the wild, Boo's mother was poached when he was young, leaving him unable to live on his own. At this refuge center, you can see Boo going about his day, take an interpretive tour, or visit an interpretive center that provides more information on grizzlies in the wild.
As a major wintering area for more than 260 species of birds, this bird sanctuary is busy year round with avian activity. Shorebirds start arriving mid-August, followed by northern waterfowl; bird sightings peak in November. Nesting takes place April through June; kids love seeing the goslings and ducklings. Birdseed is 50 cents. Located on Westham Island in Ladner across the Fraser River estuary from Steveston, it takes a bit of a loop route to get there. But rain or shine, there are always birds to see.
Jointly administered by the British Columbia provincial government and the Tsimshian First Nation, Canada's only grizzly bear sanctuary, 45 km (28 miles) northeast of Prince Rupert, was established in 1994. It contains one of North America's highest concentrations of grizzlies, protecting a population of about 50 bears, as well as the surrounding wilderness and wetlands that make up their habitat. Eagles, porpoises, and whales may also be spotted in the bay on the approach to the sanctuary. You can visit the sanctuary only with a licensed guide (the website has contact information) and with the proper permits, and access is via boat or floatplane only. Bear viewing is best between mid-May and late July; trips may not be offered in August and September.
