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Kicking horse gondola & grizzly refuge, adventure details.

One thing that sets Kicking Horse Mountain Resort apart from all other ski resorts is the Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Refuge. The 20-acre area is the home of resident grizzly bear, Boo. Within this natural mountainside habitat, Boo hunts, plays, forages, and explores just like his wild cousins. The interpretive centre is open daily during the summer and provides guests the opportunity to observe an adult grizzly bear going about his daily routine. Everyone who comes to visit Boo is fascinated by his strength, agility, intelligence, and personality. The Grizzly Bear Refuge is a conservation, education and research centre committed to becoming a world leader in the preservation of grizzly bears.          

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Grizzly Bear Refuge

$ 20.00 – $ 90.00

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May 20, 2024

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Grizzly Bears

Tour Description

Itinerary & Highlights Lake Louise – Take a stroll on the shore Spiral Tunnels – The Big Hill was the biggest challenge for the Railway in the Rockies. See how they overcame it Takakkaw Falls – Canada’s second highest waterfall at 254 m Kicking Horse Canyon – Watch for whitewater rafters charging through the class 4 rapids Gondola Ride – Soar to the heights of the Purcell Mountains Eagle’s Eye – Enjoy lunch and a spectacular view of the Canadian Rockies, Purcell and Selkirk Mountains Grizzly Refuge Tour – Watch the grizzly bear Boo, orphaned but saved from destruction, and be fascinated with bear trivia and facts

Inclusions : Friendly guide, Small group size, Hands on interpretive tools, Hotel pick up and drop off, Mountain top lunch, Gondola ride, Chair lift ride, Admission to the Grizzly bear reserve, Refreshment and light snack, Certified guide, Use of binoculars.

Details : Departs Banff Daily:  8:30am   Departs Lake Louise Samson Mall: 9:15am Departs Chateau Lake Louise: 9:30am   Duration: 10 hrs Adult:  $149.00 Children 6-12 yrs:  $84.00 5 and Under:  Free Prices exclude 5% GST

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Banff Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour

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Meet Boo at Banff's Grizzly Bear Refuge!

Meet Boo, a bear with paws the size of hubcaps, enormous muscles moving beneath his shaggy fur, and a mouth full of sharp teeth. He ambles slowly through his 20-acre habitat in the Rocky Mountain bush, allowing you to watch him explore, forage, and hunt just like his wild cousins. You’ll also hear his personal story and learn about grizzly bear behaviour during your visit to the largest enclosed grizzly bear habitat in the world. Your grizzly adventure begins with being picked up in Banff. You will take a gondola ride to the summit of Kicking Horse Mountain. At the top of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, you’ll enjoy lunch at Eagle's Eye Restaurant, the highest restaurant in Canada. As you savour your lunch you can gaze over five National Parks at once. From there, your tour continues with a chairlift ride to the Grizzly Bear Refuge for an intimate encounter with Boo. The tour also stops in Yoho National Park to see Canada's second highest waterfall, Takakkaw Falls, and stunning Emerald Lake. Guaranteed Grizzly Bear sighting or come back again for free.

• A guided tour to the largest enclosed grizzly bear habitat in the world.
• Lunch at Eagle’s Eye Restaurant, the highest restaurant in Canada.
• Soar to the heights of the Purcell Mountains in an enclosed gondola with panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains.
• Visit Takakkaw Falls and Emerald Lake.
• Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Refuge
• Mountain top lunch at Eagle's Eye Restaurant
• Gondola ride
• Friendly certified guide
• Hotel pick up and drop off provided from most hotels in Banff & Samson Mall (Lake Louise Village)  

Duration:    10 hours Season:   June - September Tours Daily 8:30am

• This experience is suitable for all ages.
• Dress for the weather, wearing layers including a jacket, as you will be getting on and off the bus during the tour.
• The tours are small and private. The bus can seat up to 24 people.
• Tours in early June will include stops at the Spiral Tunnels and Natural Bridge instead of Takakkaw Falls.

Whether you are looking for a unique experience gift idea for the animal lovers in your life or fun things to do in Banff, the Banff Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour is the way to go.

The Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour takes place at Banff, Alberta.  VIEW MAP 

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Tour – Grizzly Bears

There is so much on this tour packed into one day. Visit the grizzly bear Boo as he romps and plays in natural bear habitat. Your guided sightseeing tour to the Grizzly Bear Refuge also includes stops at Lake Louise, Takakkaw Falls and Kicking Horse Canyon. Ride the gondola at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort for an eagle’s eye view of grizzly country, walk the summit trails and dine on a gourmet lunch at Canada’s highest restaurant. Experience an up-close visit with Boo, the resident bear of the refuge.

Guaranteed Grizzly Bear sighting or your next tour is free.

Departs: End of June

Where to meet: Hotel pick up and drop off provided from Banff & Lake Louise

Itinerary and highlights:

• Lake Louise: Take a stroll on the lakeshore.
• Spiral Tunnels: The ‘Big Hill’ was the Canadian Pacific Railway’s biggest challenge in the Rockies. See how they conquered this challenge.
• Takakkaw Falls: Canada’s second highest waterfall at 254m.
• Kicking Horse Canyon: Watch for whitewater rafters charging through the Class 4 rapids.
• Gondola Ride: Soar to the heights of the Purcell Mountains.
• Eagle’s Eye: Enjoy lunch and a spectacular view of the Canadian Rockies.
• Grizzly Refuge Tour: Observe Boo, rescued as a cub, and be fascinated with bear information.
• Guaranteed Grizzly Bear sighting! If you don’t see Boo, go on the tour again for free!

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• Friendly, certified guide
• Use of binoculars
• Hands-on interpretive tools
• Gondola ride
• Mountain-top lunch
• Grizzly Bear Refuge tour

Remember to bring:

• Warm clothes – dress for the weather
• Don’t forget your camera!

Restrictions:

• Early and late season bookings may be subject to itinerary changes.
• Please enquire at time of booking.
• Until Takakkaw Falls Road opens, alternative stop will be at Emerald Lake.

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Gilakas’la! Welcome to one of the best grizzly bear viewing experiences in the world.

World Class Wildlife Viewing

Knight Inlet Lodge is an Indigenous-owned wildlife viewing destination in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest of British Columbia, Canada.

We invite you to spend your days viewing magnificent Grizzly Bears & Incredible Wildlife, and your nights enjoying fine dining and accommodation in the most spectacular natural environment…

Booking is open now for the 2024 and 2025 seasons (May 21 to October 15).

Grizzly Bear Viewing & Whale Watching

Knight Inlet Lodge offers unique spring-to-fall grizzly bear tours and seasonal marine and whale watching tours during your 4 to 6 night stay at our west coast-style floating lodge.

Choose from a range of options to see bears and marine wildlife in one of the most magnificent natural settings in the world, surrounded by ancient forests and snow-capped mountains.

Grizzly Bear Viewing

Knight Inlet is home to a dense population of grizzlies. It is common for numerous bears to be near our lodge throughout the season, and especially during the fall when the salmon are running in nearby rivers.

Enjoy the experience of seeing grizzly bears in the wild on our 2—3 night tour packages.

Located in the Great Bear Rainforest

Knight Inlet Lodge, 240 kilometers (150 miles) northwest of Vancouver, lies in the southern reaches of one of the last intact temperate rainforests on earth, the Great Bear Rainforest – home to Indigenous peoples, ancient forests, and wild bears since time immemorial.

Your Home Away From Home

Arriving at the lodge by floatplane from vancouver island in the morning, your adventure begins right away we will provide you a lodge orientation and safety briefing, then head straight out on the first tour of the day. after returning to the lodge and enjoying a delicious lunch, you will participate on two more tours, including bear viewing. at the end of your day come and relax in the privacy of your room, or join other guests in the lounge or on the water front deck before dinner.  , accommodation.

Our guest rooms feature queen size beds and private bathrooms with showers. Some of our rooms have capacity for families of up to 4.

All rooms enjoy either views of the inlet, or the shoreline behind the lodge, where bears are often spotted.

Seafood like crab, salmon or prawns are harvested fresh from Knight Inlet allowing our Chef to offer the most glorious West Coast cuisine! Served with fine wines, our tasty menu is locally sourced from Knight Inlet, plus other fresh local ingredients flown in daily.

With advance notice, we can accommodate most dietary needs.

A Sustainable Legacy

As an Indigenous-owned, fly-in wildlife viewing destination, we at Knight Inlet Lodge take our corporate and environmental stewardship responsibilities seriously. We work hard to reduce, reuse, and recycle, and are doing everything we can to minimize our environmental footprint.

Committed to Conservation

We are strong advocates for sustainable fisheries and wildlife management policies in the Great Bear Rainforest.

We also support and facilitate independent research on bear-human interactions, which is integrated into our bear viewing management plans.

In 2017 we successfully helped to end the grizzly bear trophy hunt in British Columbia.

A Dedicated Team

A tight-knit team of dedicated, like-minded people, with years of experience managing and operating a remote tourist destination like Knight Inlet Lodge, offer our guests the highest quality service and expertise.

From our on-site managers to our guides, our chefs to our technical staff – we all can’t wait to welcome you to our own working home away from home!

Decades of Experience

Knight Inlet Lodge is owned by an Indigenous partnership of five First Nations whose stewardship and conservation knowledge and experience goes back to time immemorial

Knight Inlet Lodge, founded in the 1990s, has been a hallmark of not only hospitality, but grizzly bear and pacific salmon conservation and responsible environmental stewardship for decades.

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Grizzly Bear Interpretive Centre

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is home to the world’s largest enclosed and protected grizzly bear habitat. This Grizzly Bear Refuge is where resident orphaned grizzly bear Boo lives and plays. Visitors are given the opportunity, as part of a one-of-a-kind interpretive tour, to view a grizzly bear interacting much as they do in the wild; foraging, hunting, playing, swimming, snoozing and exploring. Held multiple times a day throughout the summer season, these tours are educational and interactive, allowing guests a unique opportunity to view this incredible animal and learn about the plight of this blue listed species.

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• Animals , Canada

Meet Boo The Bear: The Resident Grizzly At Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

• Published on July 3, 2022
• // Updated on Dec 17, 2022
• // in Animals , Canada
• // This post may contain affiliate links, read our disclaimer.

Our first encounter with Boo, an imposing grizzly bear, was rather unexpected. After bursting through the bushes, Boo stomped through a small stream and, unfazed by our presence, plopped down in the meadow and began picking at the vegetation. Many would fear seeing a grizzly up close, however, this wasn’t a normal encounter. 

We were visiting the Grizzly Bear Refuge at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in Golden, BC. Boo was born in the wild but grew up at the refuge. Orphaned at 5 months old after a poacher killed his mum, Boo and his brother Cari would be euthanised, as the government did not allow bear rehabilitation at the time.

Luckily, the cubs were given a new lease of life at the refuge, which was specifically built for them. Researchers could observe and gain insights to determine if the bears were able to gain life skills without their mother’s guidance and without human interference.

Sadly, Cari died during his first winter dormancy, but Boo has called the refuge his home for almost 20 years. Because he is habituated to humans, he can’t be released back into the wild, however insights gained through observing Boo have been instrumental in helping other orphaned cubs being released into the wild.

Since 2007, Northern Lights Wildlife Centre , in Northern BC, is the only rewilding program for orphaned grizzly bears. Since then, they have been able to release 29 cubs into the wild, with the help of research gained at the Grizzly Bear Refuge. 

WATCH OUR FIRST ENCOUNTER WITH BOO ↷

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lies & Ash │✈ Travel (@nonstopdestination)

After our brief encounter with Boo, we were keen to learn more about him and the refuge. The refuge offers two options: The interpretive Tour or the Ranger Assist Program. We booked the latter as it allowed us to get up close and personal with Boo.

At 9am, our guide, Beth, took us up to the refuge, where, upon arrival, Boo came out of the trees to inspect us. His enclosure measures around 20 acres, the largest grizzly enclosure in the world, and is surrounded by a 9 foot electric fence. Beth pointed at several places behind the fence. “His enclosure has many features he would have in the wild, such as forested areas, waterfalls, and marshy sections.” She smiled. “He has plenty of places to hide if he wants to.”

Related: Visit the highest suspension bridge at Golden Skybridge

Some visitors might be disappointed when coming to see Boo, as there is no guarantee you will see him. Unlike a zoo, the refuge tried to recreate his enclosure and mimic life in the wild as much as possible. “This is why there is no set feeding time either”, Beth explained. “Feeding occurs at random, and never at the same spot, so Boo doesn’t get used to a routine”.

Often, rangers throw food from the gondola, so it gets scattered around his enclosure. This gives Boo the opportunity to go on a scavenger hunt, which encourages him to forage for food, just like he would in the wild.

Beth continued her stories of Boo while we walked along the perimeter, swatting away the many mosquitoes that were prevalent in this area. Boo followed us the entire time until we passed two trees whose bark was rubbed off on one side. “These are Boo’s favourite scratching trees”, Beth pointed, and sure enough, Boo stood up on his hind legs against one of the trees and gave us a little dance show. It was amazing to witness such a display in person. 

WATCH BOO DOING HIS DANCE ↷

After his back scratch, Boo made his way to the marshy pools a little further from the fence. Rubbing trees is quite an instinctive move for grizzlies, as it’s a way to mark territory and a signal to mates. Boo has shown many instinctive moves never taught to him, which have shown that cubs could be rewilded without having their mothers present to teach them. 

One of those instincts surfaced when a moose stumbled into his enclosure. “He captured and killed the moose, burying his carcass to eat from at a later date”, Beth recounted, before following up with a winter story. “Boo spends his winter dormancy in a holding area created for him, but one year he spent the winter in a den he created himself.” This den wasn’t perfect, but it was still remarkable, as he was never taught to create a den and hibernate.

Related: Paddle the Columbia Wetlands near Golden

Once Boo had disappeared into the forest, Beth took us to a yurt at the end of the enclosure, providing a welcome relief from the mosquitoes. Inside the yurt there were several displays on bears, both grizzlies and black bears, as well as other Canadian wildlife. Public education about grizzly bears is the primary mission of the refuge and the information displayed inside the yurt is a sobering wake-up call on how we, as humans, are threatening these majestic animals because of habitat loss, human activity and other factors. “By raising awareness, we hope to help the grizzlies and avoid human-bear conflicts”, Beth concluded, as we left the yurt.

Over the years, we have learned a great deal about black and grizzly bears. However, after visiting the refuge, we gained a better understanding and a new appreciation for these magnificent animals. Unlike what some people might think, grizzly bears are not out there to hunt and kill us, quite the opposite, they try to avoid us at all costs. As the refuge’s ambassador, Boo gives visitors a rare look at life as a grizzly while also raising awareness for this keystone species. 

Should Boo be kept in an enclosure? Why can’t he be released into the wild?

Whenever wildlife is kept in an enclosure, we wonder if this is the best life for the animal. With Boo, if he had been left in the wild after the poacher killed his mum, he wouldn’t have been able to survive. He was too young to live in the wild without his mother’s protection and guidance. Because there was no rewilding program at the time, all orphaned cubs were euthanised or moved to zoos.

The Grizzly Bear Refuge was able to rescue him and give him a life while also gaining insights to help future orphaned grizzly cubs. While the refuge has attempted to mimic life in the wild as closely as possible, Boo is too habituated to humans and cannot be released into the wild. Boo would approach humans without fear, which would put both Boo and humans at risk.

Is Boo happy at the refuge?

Boo lives in one of the biggest grizzly enclosures in the world, which replicates the life he would have in the wild. Grizzlies are also solitary animals, so he is quite happy living alone in his enclosure. Boo has escaped from his enclosure twice – and there’s his rumoured offspring wandering the mountains around Golden – but both times he did return to the refuge. 

How to visit Boo

There are several ways to visit Boo. The Catamount gondola takes you to the refuge midway up the mountain at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Here you can walk around Boo’s enclosure or observe him from the viewing platform. Several plaques with info about Boo and grizzlies are placed around the perimeter, and inside the yurt you’ll find more in-depth information about Boo, black bears, and other wildlife. If you’d like to hear more about Boo, you can join one of the two tours:

Interpretive tours Every hour from 10am until 3pm, the refuge runs interpretive tours where knowledgeable guides talk about Boo, his life story, as well as info about his wild cousins. Since Boo roams around his large enclosure, the guides will take you to the area where he might be, but there’s no guarantee you’ll see him. There is no tour at 1pm as Boo usually takes a nap around this time.

Ranger Assist Program The ranger assist program takes you on a behind-the-scenes tour. With only a max of four participants you get a more personal experience and the opportunity to ask questions and see how the refuge operates. There are two times for the tour: One starts at 9am, which is the one we were on, where a ranger drives you up to the refuge and shows you the morning procedures. Afterwards you can join the first interpretive tour at 10am and go back down the mountain on the Catamount chairlift. The second tour is at 3pm, where you arrive at the refuge via the Catamount chairlift and join the last interpretive tour at 3pm, before joining the rangers while they perform the closing procedures of the refuge. 

How you can help

The following links will take you to organisations involved with grizzly bear awareness. Some offer volunteering opportunities or ways to donate to their cause:

• Grizzly Bear Foundation : A charitable organisation dedicated to the welfare of the grizzly bear across North America.
• Northern Lights Wildlife Shelter : The only wildlife shelter that rewilds orphaned grizzly cubs.

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We were invited by Kicking Horse Mountain Resort on a Ranger Assist Program to meet Boo. As always, all opinions are our own and you will always read our genuine thoughts and experiences.

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Meet boo the bear at the kicking horse grizzly bear refuge.

Boo is one of the most famous grizzly bears in the world and for good reason!

Located near Golden, BC, you’ll find the Kicking Horse Mountain Refuge where Boo the Bear lives on a beautiful 20-acre area on the mountain he calls home.

This 20-acre area was made specifically for Boo to call home as he was rescued from poachers many years ago.

Now he lives here at the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort where a team of experts take care of him and learn from his behaviours in order to help other rescued bears.

In this post, we’ll share Boo’s story, how you can visit him, and debunk some myths about grizzlies!

Disclosure: This post has been created in collaboration with  Tourism Golden . Everything in this post is based on our personal opinions and experiences. This post also contains affiliate links which means if you decide to use the links and make a valid purchase, we will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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Visiting the Kicking Horse Mountain Refuge near Golden

Golden is home to some pretty amazing places – one of them being the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.

Kicking Horse is a mountain resort where you can dine at Canada’s highest-elevation restaurant; Eagle’s Eye , hike awesome mountain trails like Terminator Peak , and also visit Boo , the local Grizzly Bear that lives right on the ski hill!

Boo is very important to Kicking Horse and Golden, and when you visit the mountain resort there are a few ways you can see Boo and his 20-acre home. 

If you take the gondola up, you might get lucky and see him walking around between lift towers 7 and 9. You will go right above his home then!

You can also go on the Ranger Assist Program (RAP) where you’ll get to see Boo up close doing his thing! This is what we did and it was awesome!

Lastly, you can also go on an interpretive tour to learn more about Boo and, hopefully, you’ll be able to see him on this tour as well.

We had the chance to visit the Northern Lights Wolf Centre just outside of Golden which is a little similar to the refuge here.

If you are interested in Canadian wildlife, both of these experiences are well worth visiting during your time in Golden!

It’s such a unique experience seeing these animals up close and learning how humans have helped not just the animals living in the refuge but also other animals in similar situations (through applied research)!

What is Boo’s story?

Boo the Bear was born in 2002 and was one of three grizzly cubs which is pretty amazing!

Usually, grizzlies get one to four cubs with the average being two. The fact that Boo’s mom had three cubs at once was quite spectacular.

Sadly, this caught the attention of a poacher who decided to end Boo’s mom’s life.

One of the cubs ran away never to be found again. Boo and his brother, Cari, (which are named after the Caribou Mountains where they were born) were rescued.

The two brothers were taken care of for a few months before they moved to Kicking Horse which became their home.

During their first winter, Cari sadly passed away of natural causes during hibernation leaving Boo on his own.

Boo has now called the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort home for over 20 years where a team of experts help take care of him and make sure he’s living his best life and keeping his bear instincts intact.

Now, let’s go over the different ways you can visit Boo!

Ranger Assist Program (RAP Tour)

As we mentioned above, there are a few ways to learn about and see Boo. We’re going to start with the tour we did – the Ranger Assist Program (RAP tour).

The Ranger Assist Program is a private tour that takes place once a day at 9 am (an hour before the bear refuge is open to the public). 

The Rap Tour has a maximum of 5 guests to keep it intimate. This allows everyone to enjoy the experience and gives you time to ask the ranger any questions you may have!

Make sure to give yourself some time when you go to the mountain resort and leave earlier than expected!

We almost missed our tour because we got stuck waiting behind an 11-minute-long train when we left from Golden to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.

Once you get to Kicking Horse Resort, you’ll find the guide waiting for you to take you up to Boo’s enclosure where they will explain everything about Boo and his life.

One of the coolest things about going on the RAP tour is that Boo usually goes on his daily scavenger hunt at that time.

His scavenger hunt is how he gets food. A ranger hides different types of food in many different places inside the smaller section of his enclosure. You’ll get a chance to watch Boo search for food just like he would in nature.

We got a chance to see him dig under rocks, climb up trees, and search around his enclosure for all the food that was hidden for him by the rangers.

It’s definitely (hopefully) the closest you’ll ever get to seeing a grizzly out in nature in its natural habitat searching for food!

On top of that, you learn so much from the local rangers – not just about Boo but about grizzlies and other bears as well. We learned everything from where and how bears live to what to do if you ever encounter one in the wild.

We actually met our guide, Jenni at the local farmers market in Golden a few days earlier at the bear awareness stand. She was super nice and ended up asking to be our RAP tour guide!

It’s a very special tour where you get to see a grizzly explore and have the freedom to roam in its natural habitat. 

Once your RAP tour is done you can also join the public tour and check out the yurt where you’ll find an interpretive area of the Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Refuge. 

When you’re ready to leave, you can make your way back to the chairlift and head down to the resort.

To do the Ranger Assist Program (RAP), you can buy your tickets online here .

Please note that the RAP Tour must be booked at least one day in advance! You can book tickets online, call 1.866.SKI.KICK (754-5425), or visit Guest Services in the Day Lodge to make a reservation.

Adventure Pass Grizzly Bear Refuge

As we mentioned, we had the chance to go on the RAP Tour and it was awesome! In case this is booked out the day you want to go or if it’s outside of your budget, there are other ways you can try to see Boo.

So the Adventure Pass for the Grizzly Bear Refuge is the next best thing to do. This will give you access to the chairlift that takes you up to the Grizzly Bear Refuge where you’ll find Boo’s area of land!

The Adventure Pass also gives you access to the gondola so you can head to the top of Kicking Horse afterwards for some epic views and hiking.

Visiting the Grizzly Bear Refuge with the Adventure Pass will give you the opportunity to go on one of the public tours where the guide will talk about Boo the Bear similar to the RAP program.

The difference between the two tours is that it’s not a guarantee that you will be able to see Boo on the public tour. Since it is a 20-acre area where Boo can roam free, he may be up the mountain doing his own thing.

Early mornings and late afternoons are when you’ll have the best chance of seeing Boo!

If you don’t see Boo during your initial visit, you can return for another FREE* tour .

Also, on the RAP tour, you will be in a very small group with the guide so there are lots of opportunities to ask questions. The public tour can get a lot bigger depending on the day (there were around 15 people on the tour taking place after our RAP tour).

It’s really cool seeing Boo in his “natural” habitat because it’s so different from the perception a lot of people have of bears – especially grizzlies.

Of course, bears are mighty and strong, but you’ll also see him goofing around and playing as if he’s just a big silly mammal who likes to have fun! 

If you get the Adventure Pass, remember that it opens at 10 am, an hour after the RAP Tour! The tour runs at the top of the hour every hour from 10 am until 3 pm. (There’s no tour at 1 pm though).

When your tour is done, you can take the chairlift down and then head over to the gondola! When you’re on the gondola, remember to look down between lift towers 7 and 9 to see if you can spot Boo from above!

Grizzly Bear Refuge

The last way to see Boo the Bear in his enclosure is the Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour!

The only difference between the Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour Pass and the Adventure Pass is that you don’t have access to the gondola with this pass.

If you only have time to see Boo and not hike up Terminator Peak or check out Eagle’s Eye Restaurant then this is the tour to go on. 

You can easily take the chairlift, get the full public experience of the grizzly refuge, and then be back down to the resort in under two hours. 

You’ll take the Catamount chairlift from the bottom of the resort to the Grizzly Bear Refuge where the tours start at the top of the hour from 10 am to 3 pm (remember there is no tour at 1 pm).

You can also visit the grizzly bear interpretive area inside the yurt where one of the rangers will be there to assist you and you can ask any questions you may have.

Once the tour is done and you’ve (hopefully) had your chance to see Boo roam around his area, you can take the chairlift back down to the resort!

When is the best time to visit Boo?

Since Boo hibernates like all other bears, it is only possible to visit him during the summer season. You can visit Boo from sometime in the Spring until the end of October when the season ends.

If you do want to go to the Ranger Assist Program (RAP) during the summer peak season, it’s good to book a little bit in advance.

There are only 5 spots open daily and they do book up quickly since it is such a unique experience to do here in Golden. 

In case the RAP tour is booked out on your desired dates, you can always get the Adventure Pass and try to see Boo during the public hours!

As we mentioned before, the best time to try to see him is in the morning (from 10 am) or in the afternoon (around 2 to 3 pm).

We would also suggest coming on a day when the weather is nice. If it’s raining and the weather isn’t great, you probably won’t enjoy yourself as much up on the mountain. 

The best time to visit Boo, in our opinion, is in September. At that time, the weather is usually still pretty nice, the school holidays are over, and international travel starts to slow down as well.

This is also around the time when bears enter the hyperphagia phase which means they prepare for hibernation. Boo is starting to get bigger and he’s a lot more active as he is constantly eating (consuming roughly 20.000 calories a day!).

Other related questions about the Grizzly Bear Refuge in Golden

Are there grizzly bears in golden.

Golden is surrounded by mountains and the Columbia River so, yes, there are grizzly bears in the area.

It’s not every day you’ll see a black or grizzly bear in Golden, but, from time to time, they do make their way to the city boundary.

We actually saw a black bear right by the Kicking Horse River in downtown Golden the day we arrived!

You will also be able to find Boo the grizzly bear at the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort at the Grizzly Bear Refuge.

Where is Boo the grizzly bear?

Boo was rescued from a poacher as a cub and brought to the Grizzly Bear Refuge near Golden. He lives in his 20-acre area on the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort where he is going to spend the rest of his life!

How old is Boo Kicking Horse?

Boo was only five months old when he and his brother, Cari, were rescued from a poacher. This was back in June 2002. As of 2023, Boo is now 21 years old!

This past summer (2023), Boo celebrated 20 years of being at the refuge at Kicking Horse.

Why is Boo the bear in captivity?

Unfortunately, Boo’s mom was killed by a poacher. At the time Boo was only a few months old and wouldn’t have been able to survive in the wild without the guidance and support of his mother. 

At the time (2003) there were no rewilding programs set in place to help bears who were rescued to go back into the wild; it wasn’t possible to set him free.

Thanks to Boo, future bears who have been rescued may have the chance to be released back into the wild because of the studies that have been done on Boo over the years. 

You may also like…

• Incredible Wolf Sanctuary Tour in Golden BC – Northern Lights
• Hiking the Epic Terminator Peak – Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
• A Grizzly Bear Encounter in The Wild – Lake Louise

Recap of visiting the Grizzly Bear Refuge near Golden BC

If you’re exploring Golden or Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and looking for something unique to do then this is it. 

Visiting the Grizzly Bear Refuge in Golden and saying hi to Boo is one of the coolest things you can do!

Whether you go on the RAP Tour or you’re just visiting Boo during the public hours, you’ll be amazed by this beautiful creature. 

From breaking down myths about bears to learning how they act and why, you’re bound to learn a thing or two.

We find bears so fascinating and we learned so much on this tour – we absolutely loved it! It’s such a fun and unique experience that you definitely don’t want to miss this while exploring Golden.

If you have questions about Golden or one of the grizzly bear experiences then feel free to ask. Just send us a DM on Instagram or leave a comment below !

We hope you have the best time visiting Boo and exploring the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in Golden!

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LISTED AS ONE OF THE TOP LOCATIONS TO SEE BEARS IN BRITISH COLUMBIA BY DESTINATION BC.

“TRIP OF A LIFETIME"

"Having always wanted to see wild grizzlies safely, I researched many operations up the coast of BC, but the Khutzeymateen Wilderness Lodge fit me best - small group tours, ease of travel from Vancouver, no fitness requirement and staying in a remote (spotlessly clean) wilderness floating lodge with only wild neighbours. As a somewhat shy senior, I need not have worried about fitting in. The Khutzeymateen team could not have been more welcoming and our mixed little group of couples and solos, pros and amateur bear watchers quickly became buddies.You will never feel unsafe with Jamie and his team of guides who, between exploratory trips, joined us for delicious hearty meals, sharing stories and much laughter. This trip is all about the bears, so if you love bears, don’t let anything stop you from this unique experience. Far better to spend your travel $ on a short unforgettable experience than hit the tourism mainstream of museums, beaches, and crowds."

Christine M ~ On TripAdvisor

VISIT THE KHUTZEYMATEEN  GRIZZLY BEAR SANCTUARY

In the traditional territory of the Gits'iis, the Khutzeymateen was established in 1994 as Canada's first grizzly bear sanctuary, protecting the entire watershed of the Khutzeymateen and Kateen Rivers and the foreshore of the Khutzeymateen Inlet. A rich and diverse coastal habitat including numerous estuaries throughout the inlet.

TREAT YOURSELF TO CULINARY DELIGHTS

Savour the exceptional culinary offerings curated by our chef, showcasing a range of fresh and healthy meals served at our dining table hand crafted from locally sourced red cedar.  We will accommodate  all your dietary needs, ensuring a delectable and tailored dining experience.

STAY IN OUR FLOATING WILDERNESS LODGE

Escape to our secluded floating lodge, accessible only by water. 8 deluxe guest rooms with queen beds offer stunning ocean and mountain views. Enjoy a wood-fired sauna, cozy living space, and dockside fire pit. Explore the area with sea kayaks or stand-up paddle boards, immersing yourself in the diverse wildlife of this remote coastal haven.

​ - WELCOME TO THE -

 KHUTZEYMATEEN

Wilderness lodge.

STEP INTO THE WILD

Nestled on the northern edge of British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest, the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary is a haven within the Tsimshian territory for a thriving population of coastal grizzly bears. The Khutzeymateen Wilderness Lodge, a premier eco-lodge in Canada, offers an unparalleled wilderness retreat in Canada's unique grizzly bear protected area. Our lodge provides guests with a unique opportunity for eco-cultural tourism, bear watching tours, and grizzly bear viewing in BC Canada, immersing you in the beauty of nature and wildlife in an ethical wildlife viewing setting. Experience the thrill of Canadian wilderness adventures and exclusive wildlife viewing experiences as you get up close with these majestic creatures in their untamed habitat, making it one of the unique lodges of the world for nature and wildlife tours.

Operating respectfully within the ancestral lands of the Gitsi’is Tribe of Lax Kw’alaams and Matlakatla, Tsmishian Nation's Traditional Territory, we express our gratitude.

DISCOVER SUPREME GRIZZLY BEAR VIEWING

Embark on an unforgettable journey into Canada's unique haven for grizzly bears. Immerse yourself in the lush wonders of Khutzeymateen inlet and estuary, a sanctuary where these majestic creatures roam freely in their natural domain, offering some of the best Grizzly Bear Viewing in Canada and across North America.

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Bear Sanctuary in these TV Series and Publications.

BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE

Montana Grizzly Encounter

A privately owned grizzly bear rescue & education sanctuary.

An Instagram Blunder

In Loving Memory of LoAnne

Welcome to our new website!

Admission Rates and Special Offers

Experience the wonder of grizzly bears at an affordable rate. Our pricing structure accommodates visitors of all ages:

• Adults (15 and older): $13.50
• Seniors (65+): $12.50
• Children (5-14 years old): $11.50
• Children 4 years old & under are Free
• Military Discount: $2 off with a valid ID
• Passes are good for two consecutive days!

For those who can't get enough of our grizzly friends, season passes are available, offering unlimited visits to the sanctuary for a full year. Every purchase contributes to the care of our rescued grizzlies and supports our educational mission.

School groups are warmly welcomed for an immersive educational experience, free of charge. Please contact us to schedule your visit. Support conservation education by joining us at the Montana Grizzly Encounter!

Welcome to Montana Grizzly Encounter, a Grizzly Bear Rescue and Education Sanctuary in Bozeman, founded in 2004. Our sanctuary provides rescued grizzlies with a natural and spacious home, emphasizing their health and well-being. Visitors can observe these majestic creatures up close in a beautiful mountain setting, free of cars or cages.

Specializing in grizzly bear rescue, we offer a haven for bears born into unfortunate captive situations or orphaned in the wild. Beyond rescue, we are committed to educating the public, welcoming school groups free of charge. Thousands of children annually learn about grizzly bear safety and conservation, contributing to our mission.

Plan your visit today and be part of the extraordinary journey of conservation and learning at Montana Grizzly Encounter.

What to Expect

After stopping by our ticket booth you'll proceed to our parking lot and then make your way to Grizzly Gifts, the entrance to our viewing area. Along the way, you'll pass by the habitat of our friendly Nigerian Dwarf Goats, who eagerly await interaction with visitors, offering opportunities for petting or feeding tall grass.

Upon reaching the gift shop, you'll receive another warm welcome and directions to the viewing area. Entering the viewing area, you'll observe one of our rescue bears enjoying their time in the habitat. In the wild, bears are typically solitary creatures, except during mother-cub relationships or when food is plentiful. We currently house three bears of varying ages and sizes, each with their own unique personality.  To accommodate their individual preferences, we rotate them throughout the day, allowing them to set their own schedule. When not outside, they enjoy comfortable indoor dens equipped with climate control, running water, toys, and other enrichment activities.

Throughout your visit, a dedicated staff member will be present in the viewing area to provide education on the origins and needs of our rescue bears, bear safety protocols, and general bear knowledge. Additionally, Keeper Talks are scheduled every hour on the half hour, typically lasting approximately 35-45 minutes.

Before you leave, be sure to stop by our gift shops, where all profits contribute directly to the well-being of our rescue bears. Your support helps us continue our vital mission of providing a safe haven for these magnificent creatures.

Visiting Hours at

Montana Grizzly Encounter welcomes you to explore and learn at our sanctuary during various seasons. Our opening hours are tailored to provide the best experience.

• Spring (March 1st): 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Wednesday–Sunday
• Summer (June 1st): 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Wednesday–Monday
• Fall (September 1st): 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Thursday–Monday
• Winter (November 1st): 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Thursday–Sunday
• All hours are weather permitting.

Each visit offers a unique perspective on grizzly bear behavior and conservation. Don't miss the opportunity to connect with nature and learn about these magnificent creatures. Plan your visit now and be a part of our mission!

Don't Wait...

Get your tickets now, general admission tickets and season passes are available, inspiring visitor testimonial.

Discover the impact we've made through the words of our visitors. Read their reviews to see how a visit to our sanctuary can be a life-changing experience.

Shop Grizzly Souvenirs

Grizzly Gifts offers an array of exclusive merchandise, perfect for commemorating your visit to our sanctuary. Our collection ranges from stylish t-shirts  to elegant jewelry. Sip your favorite beverage from our beautifully designed mugs and glasses, each item reminding you of the unforgettable experience with our grizzlies. Every purchase, from practical apparel to charming accessories, supports our mission of rescue and conservation. Explore Grizzly Gifts for a special memento or a thoughtful gift.

Casey Anderson is an Emmy nominated filmmaker, an adventurer and explorer. He has spent the last three decades traveling the world, capturing nature and wildlife through the camera lens. Born and raised in Montana, Anderson spent his childhood exploring the vast wilderness that was his backyard and by the age of eighteen, Casey was guiding wildlife filmmakers into remote locations to track and film the most elusive wild animals. At twenty-six, he co-founded the Montana Grizzly Encounter, a sanctuary for grizzly bears saved from inhumane situations. As a television personality, Casey has been seen on Nat Geo WILD, BBC, PBS, Travel Channel, Discovery Channel, and has been a regular contributor to Conan & Oprah. He has made it his mission to bring his love of the wild to the hearts of the world, instilling a drive to conserve untamed and untouched wild places. He makes his home in Paradise Valley in the greater Yellowstone ecosystem with his wife, two daughters, and son.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do your bears hibernate.

No! Bears are not true hibernators and only hibernate out of necessity due to lack of food or a female giving birth. With daily feedings and the assurance that our bears are all fixed to prevent cubs, they enjoy year-round activities. Even in the winter, they revel in the joy of frolicking in the snow, showcasing their playful nature.

Do you allow your bears to breed?

Breeding bears in captivity is completely unethical. Bear cubs require 2-3 years in the wild with their mom to learn the essential skills to survive. Without this crucial tutelage, their chances of longevity in the wild diminish significantly. Moreover, we refrain from increasing the captive bear population to preserve space for potential future rescues. All our bears are fixed, eliminating the possibility of bear cubs being born at our sanctuary. Beyond ethical considerations, spaying and neutering also decrease the chances of cancer among our resident bears.

Do you release your bears to the wild?

When we rescue a bear from the wild or a bad captive situation, we make a lifetime commitment to them. Unlike black bears, in the United States, rehabilitating grizzly bears is illegal and impractical. Due to their high intelligence and keen sense of smell, any feeding activity imprints human scent on the food, posing a significant danger if released near people. This inherent risk makes successful rehabilitation nearly impossible without placing the bear thousands of miles away from human habitation. Unfortunately, in the U.S., finding such remote areas without human presence is a challenging task.

Can I pet the bears?

Ensuring the safety of both our visitors and bears is paramount, and for this reason, there is absolutely no direct contact between the two at our sanctuary. Our bears retain all their natural tools—claws, teeth, and formidable strength. Introducing a situation where a bear could physically interact with visitors not only jeopardizes the safety of the visitor but also poses risks to the bear. Our top priority is the comfort and safety of our bears.

To facilitate close viewing without compromising safety, we've implemented protective measures. A deep dry moat and short electric fencing effectively separate visitors from our bears, creating a secure viewing area. This setup allows for an intimate viewing experience without the inherent dangers associated with bear encounters in the wild.

What do your bears eat?

Our bears enjoy a diverse diet comprising a wide array of foods. From berries, nuts, dried fruits, yogurts, to peanut butter, and more, they are treated to a variety of treats daily. For dinners, they are served a balanced mix of fruits, vegetables, and meats. Variety is key, as offering the same food two nights in a row would prompt curious looks from our discerning bears. While each bear has their own favorite foods, avocados are universally beloved. Skilled at peeling off the skin and leaving the pits behind for cleanup, our bears relish this nutritious treat.

Appreciating Our Supporters

Montana Grizzly Encounter would like to thank those who have and continue to support us by asking you to support them.

Send us a Message

Please feel free to submit any comments or questions you have; we welcome your feedback and inquiries.

Thank you for contacting Montana Grizzly Encounter.

We will get back to you as soon as possible

Contact Information

Phone:     406-586-8893

Email:     [email protected]

80 Bozeman Hill Rd. Bozeman, Montana 59715

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• About this activity

Full-Day Yoho National Park & Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour

• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Features animals Features animals
• Full-day tour of gorgeous scenery in Yoho National Park
• Visit stunning Emerald Lake & majestic Takakkaw Falls
• Lunch at the highest restaurant in Canada, Eagle's Eye
• Chance to get up close to Boo, an orphaned grizzly bear
• Learn grizzly bear habits and interactions

Activity location

• Improvement District No. 9
• Banff, Alberta, Canada

Meeting/Redemption Point

• 135 Beaver Street
• T1L 1A1, Banff, Alberta, Canada

Multiple meeting/redemption points available, see location information for full list

Check availability

• Mon, May 20 -
• Tue, May 21 -
• Wed, May 22 -
• Thu, May 23 -
• Fri, May 24 -
• Sat, May 25 -
• Sun, May 26 -
• Mon, May 27 -
• Tue, May 28 -
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• Fri, May 31 -
• Sat, Jun 1 -
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• Mon, Jun 3 -

Sorry this activity isn't available on Mon, May 20

What's included, what's not.

• What's included What's included Guided tour of Grizzly Bear Refuge and Yoho National Park
• What's included What's included Sightseeing gondola ride
• What's included What's included Lunch at the Eagle's Eye Restaurant, Canada's highest restaurant
• What's included What's included Hotel pickup from Banff hotels or Samson Mall upon request
• What's included What's included Live tour commentary provided in English
• What's excluded What's excluded Gratuities

Know before you book

• Children 5 and younger are complimentary - Tickets must be selected for infants
• If Takakkaw Falls road is closed, you will visit the Spiral Tunnels and Natural Bridge instead.
• Default pickup location - Unless requested otherwise
• This activity is not wheelchair accessible.
• Must be willing to ride the open-air chairlift to get to the Grizzly Bear enclosure

What you can expect

Encounter an icon of the Canadian wilderness on this full-day tour of the Grizzly Bear Refuge. Get the chance to meet the bear Boo in the world's largest enclosed grizzly bear habitat, and take in the natural wonders of the Yoho National Park in the Canadian Rockies.

Travel out with your group to the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, which plays host to the Grizzly Bear Refuge. Your guide takes you on a scenic tour through Yoho National Park, allowing you to soak in the serene beauty of the mountainous landscape. Make a stop at Emerald Lake, which earns its name from the striking color caused by glacial sediment in the water, and check out the plants around the shoreline.

Visit Takakkaw Falls, where water tumbles down a 991-foot (302-m) drop at its highest point, before climbing aboard a sightseeing gondola to glide up above the clouds at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. The gondola drops you at the top for lunch at Eagle's Eye, the highest restaurant in Canada with views of the Purcell and Rocky Mountains.

After fueling up with lunch, head to the Grizzly Bear Refuge, the largest enclosed and protected habitat for grizzly bears in the world on an open-air chairlift. Here, you can get as close as 16 feet (5 m) away from Boo, an orphaned bear who lives in the refuge. Before you make the return trip, ask your guide about the bears' habits and observe them playing and interacting in a natural environment.

• Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada

Continued Funding for Grizzly Bear Conflict Management

DENVER  – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is announcing continued funding through 2021 to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and Wildlife Services (WS) for collaborative efforts addressing grizzly bear-livestock conflicts in Montana.

“The Trump Administration has prioritized implementing practices to address issues impacting private landowners and the livestock industry,” said  FWS Director Aurelia Skipwith . “U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proud to work alongside the USDA to address grizzly bear livestock depredations in Montana. Partnerships like this allow us to further grizzly bear conservation.”

“Together, we are protecting livestock and conserving our valuable wildlife resources in Montana. USDA appreciates FWS’ support for continued partnership with livestock producers and the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks,” said  Janet Bucknall, Deputy Administrator, USDA, APHIS, WS.

FWS is responsible for managing grizzly bears under the Endangered Species Act. Grizzly bears in the lower 48 states were originally listed in 1975 as a threatened species. There is one umbrella recovery plan for all grizzly bears in the lower 48 that was developed in 1982 and revised in 1993, and some ecosystems have supplements that add or update habitat-based and/or demographic recovery criteria for that particular population of bears. In January, FWS initiated a 5-year status review of the grizzly bear in the lower 48. A 5-year status review is based on the best scientific and commercial data available at the time of the review.

FWS works in close collaboration with WS to resolve conflicts among bears, people and livestock in Montana. In October, Director Skipwith traveled to Great Falls, MT., to participate in a roundtable hosted by Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT) to discuss grizzly bear issues with landowners and other stakeholders.

“We would like to thank the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Senator Daines for continuing this critical funding to reduce grizzly bear conflicts,”  said Montana Stockgrowers Association President Jim Steinbeisser . “Today as grizzlies expand their habitat, they pose challenges to those who make a living from the land. This funding will continue efforts of many livestock producers across the state who have implemented a host of tools and techniques to protect their property and maintain working ranches. Using proven tools and working together as neighbors can be a practical way to protect human safety, maintain profitable operations, and uphold the strong ethic of stewardship Montana producers are known for.”

“As a Montana rancher and Legislator, I have seen firsthand the growing issues associated with grizzly habitat expansion,”  said Speaker-Elect of the Montana House of Representatives Wylie Galt . “Growing grizzly populations across the state are leading to increased conflicts with livestock as well as outdoor recreationists. I want to thank the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Senator Daines, and Montana stakeholders for coming together to find solutions which will protect Montana’s ranching and outdoor recreation industries as well as grizzly conservation efforts.

“The increasing population of Grizzly bears along the Rocky Mountain Front is a success story in which we can all take pride, but it has come with a price to citizens of Montana along the front,”  stated Cascade County Commissioner Joe Briggs . “The ongoing recovery of this species brings with it a predictable increase in clashes between the bears and humans as the bears expand their territory. This funding from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is an important element to help mitigate and manage these conflicts. We thank the Trump administration, Senator Daines and Director Skipwith for their ongoing efforts to partner with the people of Montana to address these conflicts for the benefit of both humans and Grizzly.”

The continued funding by FWS of $250,000 through 2021 allows WS to provide enhanced operational assistance for agricultural producers and others experiencing conflicts with grizzly bears in Montana. This continued partnership helps address chronic areas of grizzly predation by applying an integrated damage management approach incorporating non-lethal tools and, when necessary, lethal removal to prevent grizzly bears from attacking livestock.

APHS WS indicates 157 complaints of possible grizzly bear depredation were received in FY 2019, and of those, 141 were confirmed domestic animals killed or injured. Thirty-six domestic animal deaths or injuries were determined to be probable. In FY20, there were 148 complaints of possible grizzly bear depredation, and of those, 124 domestic animals were confirmed killed or injured due to grizzly bears. Twenty-five domestic animal deaths or injuries determined to be probable. In addition, anecdotal information suggests that the denning season in some areas might be slightly shorter - mostly for males.

A strong partnership between FWS, WS and Montana’s Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks is critical in managing grizzly bear conflicts with local livestock producers and the people of Montana. Anyone experiencing problems with grizzly bears in Montana or have general questions about management in the state can reach each of the agencies by calling the following numbers:

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – (406) 243-4903 USDA Wildlife Services – (406) 657-6464 (statewide) (406) 439-5943 (western Montana) (406) 200-2180 (eastern Montana) Montana’s Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks – (406) 444-2612

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen in the West, visit our website, or connect with us through any of these social media channels:  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Flickr ,  YouTube , and  Instagram .

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