Gribbell Island

Gribbell Island is a forested island off the central coast of British Columbia, within the Great Bear Rainforest region. It is notable as one of the islands associated with sightings of the white-coated Kermode black bear.

The island offers opportunities for remote wildlife viewing-especially bear watching from boats or vantage points near salmon-bearing streams-and for experiencing old-growth coastal rainforest. Visits are generally boat- or floatplane-based and organized through guided wildlife tours.

Gribbell Island and surrounding territories have long-standing cultural and stewardship connections with Indigenous peoples of the central coast. In recent decades the area has been the focus of conservation attention because of its wildlife values and old-growth forests.

The island lies off the north coast of British Columbia within the Great Bear Rainforest coastal archipelago. Access is by private vessel or charter from coastal communities and lodges.

• How to visit: Most visits require boat or floatplane access and are typically arranged as wildlife-viewing excursions from coastal towns and lodges.

What to See #

• Kermode bear habitat: Remote coastal forest and estuary habitats on the island are known sites for sightings of the white-coated Kermode or "spirit" black bear and other coastal wildlife.