Grizzly Bear in Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary

Khutzeymateen takes its name from the Tsimshian First Nations word that means sheltered place of fish and bears. The park protects a population of approximately 50 grizzly bears, some of which are estimated to weigh around 400 kg (850 pounds). The protection of the dwindling grizzly bear population in British Columbia is vital, as the loss of their natural habitat continues to threaten their survival.

In addition to protecting grizzly bears, their habitat, and the ecosystem in which they live, the park also represents the first undisturbed estuary of its size to be protected along the north coast of BC. The topography of this land and marine sanctuary is diverse, with rugged peaks towering to 2,100 metres above a valley of wetlands, old growth temperate rainforests and a large estuary.

As the 44,300-hectare Khutzeymateen/K'tzim-a-deen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary is a protected area, human activity is not encouraged. However, controlled viewing is permitted, although access is only by boat and floatplane. Fishing, hunting and camping are prohibited in the sanctuary, and angling is prohibited on the Khutzeymateen River and tributaries. All visitors must register at the ranger station near the Khutzeymateen River estuary.

Viewpoints look over the estuary and shoreline, and offer a chance to glimpse the black bears, mountain goats, martens, wolverines, wolves, porcupines, river otters, beavers, and harbour seals that share the sanctuary with the grizzlies.

For a closer look, authorized groups with professional guides are allowed to enter the estuary. Overnight anchorage is permitted on the Khutzeymateen Inlet, but be aware of the drastic tides, particularly in the estuary. Unguided entry into the river estuary is not permitted, and disembarking your vessel is prohibited unless accompanied by a Park Ranger or approved guide.

Guided multi-day trips to Khutzeymateen allow significant time to be spent ashore in one of the world's premier locations for viewing grizzly bears, while in the evenings you can enjoy the comforts of home aboard your charter vessel. These trips provide a wonderful combination of wildlife viewing, nature photography and coastal exploration of BC's wilderness.

The sanctuary is jointly managed by the province of British Columbia and the Tsimshian Nation. All guided tours must be with a permitted guide, call the Prince Rupert Visitor Info Centre for information at 1-800-667 1994 or (250) 624-5637