The Belarko Wildlife Viewing Area, located in Tweedsmuir Park, British Columbia, now provides a safe environment for visitors to observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat. This initiative, a collaborative effort between BC Parks and the Nuxalk Nation, aims to offer close-up wildlife encounters while ensuring the protection of both humans and animals.
Located 40 minutes from Bella Coola, the viewing area is open annually from September 1 to 30, allowing wildlife enthusiasts to experience bears feeding along the Atnarko River. The area is enclosed by electrified cedar fencing, ensuring visitor safety while allowing the bears to roam undisturbed. BC Parks and Nuxalk staff also provide interpretive services and monitor bear activity, ensuring a safe and informative experience for all.
Since its construction in 2010, the platform has provided a structured and secure alternative to previously dispersed viewing areas, addressing conservation concerns. The program expanded in 2015 to include more Nuxalk staff, with four members hired each season.
In 2023, the viewing area attracted over 3,300 visitors from across the globe. With peak bear activity occurring at dawn and dusk, the area has become a destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Educational opportunities are also available at the site, with informative signage on both bear biology and Nuxalk cultural teachings.
“BC Parks staff based in Bella Coola have shared their immense gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside Nuxalk staff and Guardians. This partnership has provided important opportunities for BC Parks to learn from the Nuxalkmc about their stewardship and cultural practices, particularly in relation to their co-existence with bears,” BC Park indicated on its website.
The collaborative effort between BC Parks and the Nuxalk Nation highlights the role of enhancing safety while prioritizing wildlife protection in campgrounds. By focusing on both visitor safety and environmental stewardship, campground owners and operators can cater to wildlife enthusiasts, ensuring a safe and memorable outdoor experience.
For more information about BC Parks, visit their website here.