Bear Viewing
Discover Whistler and Blackcomb, home to hundreds of resident black bears, and explore the beautiful mountain, forest, and ski hill areas where these remarkable animals can be found and observed during the warmer spring and summer months.
Explore the mountains where black bears call home.
Whistler and Blackcomb are home to hundreds of resident black bears. They can be found deep in the forests or on the grassy ski hills during the summer months.
During the early spring, when the grass is lush and green, you may be able to observe resident black bears along the side of the highway and on the ski trails.
Highlights
- Explore Whistler & Blackcomb’s natural bear habitat
- Opportunities to see resident black bears
- Spring viewing along highways and ski trails
- Possible sightings of mothers with cubs and yearlings
- Scenic mountain and forest surroundings
- Enjoy a wide range of possible add-on activities
How bear activity changes through the year.
Discover how the seasons shape bear activity around Whistler and Blackcomb, from spring grazing to increased summer activity and late-fall hibernation.
During early spring, from mid-May to mid-June, the lush green grass creates opportunities to observe resident black bears around Whistler and Blackcomb. Bears may be seen along the side of the highway or on ski trails as they graze in the mountain surroundings.
During late spring, from mid-June to mid-July, the bears continue grazing on different grasses. As summer arrives, resident black bears become more active throughout the area. Wildlife viewing can vary depending on natural animal behaviour, but the tour focuses on exploring areas where bears may be found.
As late fall approaches, the bears eventually prepare for and enter hibernation. The seasonal changes—from spring grazing to increased summer activity and eventual late-fall hibernation—make different times of the year offer different wildlife viewing experiences.
What travelling with Alpine North feels like.
Reliable service matters most when you’re travelling for something important. Here are a few examples of the experience we aim to deliver.
Frequently asked questions
Where can black bears be found?
Whistler and Blackcomb are home to hundreds of resident black bears. They can be found deep in the forests or on the grassy ski hills during the summer months.
When is the best time to see bears?
The supplied tour information highlights early spring from mid-May to mid-June, later spring from mid-June to mid-July, and increased activity during summer.
Can bears be seen in early spring?
During early spring, when the grass is lush and green, you may be able to observe resident black bears along the side of the highway and on the ski trails.
Will I see bear cubs?
You may even be lucky enough to see resident mothers with cubs and/or yearlings.
What do bears do during later spring?
During the later part of spring, from mid-June to mid-July, the bears continue to graze on different grasses.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
The supplied information describes where and when resident black bears may be observed, but individual wildlife sightings depend on natural animal behaviour.