River Drifts

River Rafting in Bella Coola

Join our Accredited Guides for a half day river rafting trip on the Atnarko River. Mid August through October is when the chances of observing grizzly & black bears fishing for salmon are at their peak.

These guided trips are very popular & fill up quickly. We must state that the eco-rafting trips are subject to availability &/or environmental conditions and keep in mind wild beings have their own ideas, schedules, behaviours & tolerances.

Obviously bear sightings /interactions cannot be guaranteed however, we offer the ultimate bear-watching experience for valley visitors.

safe bear viewing drift river boat from Great Bear Adventures Bella Coola BC
bear viewing tours in drift boat on salmon run river in Bella Coola

River Drift

$250

per person

Experience the ultimate bear-watching adventure on the Atnarko River

Reserve Today!

Group rates and private tours available – contact us for details

More Than Just a Bear Tour

“Bear lovers”, families, photographers & naturalists are invited to join us for eco-rafting trips down the ‘river of bears’. We strive for something more than a ‘bear tour’.

Our hope is to “re-wild your Spirit” – immersing you in some of the most ecologically & culturally significant salmon & grizzly bear habitat that remains on earth.

Thrive in this living Eden – marvel at the natural wonders found in the Bella Coola Valley, gateway to the Great Bear Rainforest.

What’s Included

  • Experienced, accredited guides
  • All safety equipment
  • Interpretive commentary
  • Wildlife vieweing oppotunities
  • Photography guidance

Duration: Half day (approximately 4 hours)

Season: Mid August through October (peak bear vieweing)

Guest Experience

“Thanks to George Molyneux for sharing this river of bears & for your talents!”

“Dear Jeff & Bindi,
The bears were awesome – fair dinkum we were so lucky to have such great weather & to see so many bears. It will take some doing for the experience to ever be bettered – ridgie didge!! Thanks for the memory! “

Terri & George Old, Dale Sheppard. Collie, Western Australia

“Dear Jeff & Bindi,
It has been an amazing weekend & it has changed our views forever about bears. Your passion, understanding and knowledge of them is very inspiring. Thank you for sharing your life with us & for the amazing food, walks & boat trip. We have a life time of memories.”

Michelle & Peter, Margaret & Tom Okanagan, B.C

River Rafting FAQs

Join our Accredited Guides for a half day river rafting trip on the Atnarko River. The river drift tour is approximately 4 hours in duration. This includes safety briefing, the river journey, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Mid August through October is when the chances of observing grizzly & black bears fishing for salmon are at their peak. During salmon season, we may encounter bears fishing along the river. As with all wildlife experiences, sightings cannot be guaranteed but the river drift offers excellent viewing opportunities.

“Bear lovers”, families, photographers & naturalists are invited to join us for eco-rafting trips down the ‘river of bears’. The Atnarko River provides a calm, scenic float perfect for all ages. Children must wear provided safety equipment at all times.

We recommend bringing a camera (waterproof or protected), binoculars, sunglasses, hat, and layers for changing weather. We provide all safety equipment including life jackets. Rain gear is recommended during shoulder seasons.

Yes, private tours can be arranged for your group. With our maximum of 4 guests at the chalet, most tours are inherently intimate. Contact us for private tour pricing and availability.

We strive for something more than a ‘bear tour’. Our hope is to “re-wild your Spirit” – immersing you in some of the most ecologically & culturally significant salmon & grizzly bear habitat that remains on earth. We offer the ultimate bear-watching experience for valley visitors.

Begin Your River Story

Join us for a day on the river. From grizzly sightings to eagle encounters, every journey tells its own story. Reserve your adventure today.

Contact Us