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