An ecological treasure where land and sea join together in a mighty convergence of nature
The Great Bear Rainforest is the largest remaining intact temperate rainforest and one of the most pristine wilderness environments in the world, stretching the length of the rugged Pacific coast from the northern part of Vancouver Island to southern Alaska. Today, temperate rainforests cover less than 1% of the planet, few of which remain unlogged. They are amongst the richest and most diverse temperate forests, containing more living matter than any other ecosystem.
Covering 6.4 million hectares, the Great Bear Rainforest represents a quarter of the remaining coastal temperate rainforest worldwide. It is the traditional territory of 26 First Nations communities who have lived here for thousands of years amongst the towering old-growth forests, misty valleys, fertile estuaries, glacier-cut fjords, snow-capped mountains and abundant wildlife.
The Coastal Rainforest
Along the coast, dynamic and complex interactions exist between terrestrial, marine, freshwater, and estuarine systems. Coastal temperate rainforests have 4 common features. They exist in cooler climates, they’re in close proximity to oceans, there are mountains, and have high rainfall. BC’s coastal temperate rainforests have some of the oldest and largest trees, including Sitka spruce, red cedar, western hemlock, Pacific silver fir, and Douglas fir.
Wild salmon are a keystone species within this unique coastal ecosystem. This reflects the strong connection between the ocean, rivers, and land. Here, bears depend on healthy salmon runs for their survival. So do a vast array of other wildlife including orca whales, eagles and wolves. The fish, left behind by bears and other wildlife, are filled with nitrogen. Nitrogen fertilizes the soil and nourishes trees to grow to their impressive size. This significant link between salmon, bears, and trees illustrates one of many interrelated webs of life found within this mighty forest.
The Great Bear Rainforest is a place that continues to attract explorers, adventurers and dreamers alike. At Nimmo Bay, we invite those seeking to connect with nature on a new level. Here, you will experience a cultural, spiritual and eye-opening journey unrivalled to anywhere else in the world.
It’s important to protect this rainforest, for those that call it home and for future generations. After witnessing the breathtaking beauty and abundant life for yourself, we hope you will agree.
“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.”
John Muir