Hartley Bay is a small Indigenous village situated in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia. It is located approximately 145 kilometers south of Prince Rupert and the Grenville Channel. Located at the mouth of the Douglas Channel, is accessible primarily by boat or seaplane, owing to its remote location amidst a pristine environment rich in natural beauty.
The village is home to the Gitga’at Nation, a Tsimshian First Nations community that has resided in the region for thousands of years. The Gitga’at people have a deep connection to the land and waters surrounding Hartley Bay, a relationship founded on a rich tradition of stewardship and respect for the environment.
From incredible whale action, wildlife, hot springs, sport fishing and nautical adventure, Hartley Bay is a welcomed stopover on British Columbia’s Inside Passage…and a hidden jewel of the Great Bear Rainforest. Read on as we delve into this mezmerising land and discover what there is to do and see there.
Hartley Bay and the Gitga’at Nation: A Journey Through Time and Tradition
Hartley Bay holds a significant place in the Gitga’at Nation’s history, a subset of the larger Tsimshian First Nations community. The Gitga’at, meaning “people of the cane,” have a rich lineage that traces back thousands of years, deeply intertwined with the vibrant ecosystems of the coastal lands and waters surrounding Hartley Bay. The intricate relationship between the Gitga’at people and their land is reflected in their Sm’algyax language, the oral histories, and the vibrant artistic expressions that encapsulate the generations of knowledge and spiritual connection to the land and the sea.
The area is known for its stunning totem poles, a visual narrative form used to tell the histories and legends of the Gitga’at people. Hartley Bay became a permanent settlement in the latter part of the 19th century, providing the community with a safe haven and a centralized location that fostered cultural richness and community bonding. This settlement has enabled the Gitga’at to continue their stewardship of the land, nurturing their ancestral home while sharing its wonder with visitors from around the world.
In recent history, the Gitga’at community in Hartley Bay has stood as a beacon of environmental stewardship, showcasing an admirable commitment to protecting the pristine environments that have nurtured their way of life for generations. A remarkable instance of their protective spirit was evident in 2006 when the community played a significant role in the rescue efforts during the sinking of the BC Ferries passenger ferry, the “Queen of the North.”
Beyond this, they have been proactive in partnering with environmental organizations to safeguard the ecological integrity of the Great Bear Rainforest, which houses rare species like the spirit bear, a unique subspecies of the American black bear with a white coat. The community has also ventured into sustainable ecotourism, offering immersive experiences that allow visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry and natural wonders of the Gitga’at Nation’s heritage.
These initiatives represent a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, showcasing a community rooted in its rich history while actively shaping a sustainable and vibrant future.
How to Get to Hartley Bay
To reach the picturesque village of Hartley Bay in the Great Bear Rainforest, visitors usually find themselves commencing their journey from the nearby city of Prince Rupert or the town of Terrace, which are the closest urban centres with airport facilities. Prince Rupert Airport (YPR) and Northwest Regional Airport Terrace-Kitimat (YXT) are the primary hubs for travellers venturing into this region. From these points, one can take a short regional flight or a ferry to Hartley Bay.
However, the most common and accessible way to get to Hartley Bay is by water, through BC Ferries which operates a ferry service to the community, or via water taxi services. For an adventurous and scenic route, one might opt to charter a seaplane for a direct journey into the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest, landing in the waters adjacent to Hartley Bay. It’s essential to plan your trip meticulously as the remote location means transport services might be limited and subject to weather conditions.
What Greets You at Hartley Bay
Visitors venturing to Hartley Bay will be greeted by a mesmerizing landscape where dense rainforests meet the pristine waters of the Pacific. Being located in the Great Bear Rainforest means this region harbors a rich array of wildlife, both on land and in the surrounding waters. Enthusiasts may find themselves enchanted by the mystical spirit bear, which is a rare sight that symbolizes the untouched wilderness of the region.
Along the rugged coastline and ancient forest trails, one might also encounter wolves, eagles, and a variety of marine life including whales, dolphins, and sea lions, offering a rich, biodiverse setting for nature photography. Explore the forest where age-old cedar trees stand tall. Hartley Bay showcases an untamed wilderness that is a treat to explore.
Photo Credit: ‘Humpback breaching offshore Gil Island, Gitga’at territory, Hartley Bay’ by Brodie Guy via CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
Things To Do at Hartley Bay
There are a wide variety of activities to participate in at Hartley Bay. Here’s a glimpse of the potential adventures awaiting you:
- Cultural Tours: Embark on guided tours to learn about the Gitga’at culture, traditions, and history directly from community members who have a deep knowledge and understanding of the area.
- Wildlife Viewing: Venture on guided wildlife tours to see the rich biodiversity of the area, including the elusive spirit bear, grizzly bears, whales, and a myriad of other marine and terrestrial species native to the region.
- Kayaking: Experience the tranquil waters surrounding Hartley Bay through kayaking expeditions, a great way to explore hidden coves and witness marine life up close.
- Hiking: Traverse the lush trails of the Great Bear Rainforest, where you can experience the beauty of ancient forests and maybe catch a glimpse of the diverse wildlife inhabiting the region.
- Art and Craft Workshops: Engage in workshops led by Gitga’at artists sharing traditional art forms, such as weaving and carving, and take home a unique souvenir crafted by your own hands.
- Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of the area through your lens; a paradise for photography enthusiasts looking to add remarkable shots to their portfolio.
- Fishing: Enjoy a day of fishing in the rich waters surrounding Hartley Bay, known for a wide variety of fish species, guided by locals who know the best spots for a fruitful fishing adventure.
- Totem Pole Tours: Experience the rich tradition of totem pole carving, a significant part of Gitga’at culture, through tours that take you to view these majestic structures up close, offering insight into the stories and histories they narrate.
- Community Events: If your visit coincides with community events or potlatches, you might get the privilege to witness the vibrant community life, filled with traditional dances, songs, and ceremonies.
A visit to Hartley Bay is more than just a trip; it’s a journey through the pages of a living history, a testament to harmonious blend of nature, and the Gitga’at Nation’s culture.
Where to stay in Great Bear Rainforest
Embarking on a journey to the enchanting Great Bear Rainforest? Wondering where to stay in the Great Bear Rainforest? Look no further! Our dedicated page boasts a myriad of accommodation options, tailored to every traveler’s preference. Whether you’re seeking a cozy cabin, a luxurious lodge, or an immersive eco-retreat, we’ve got it all covered.
The best part? Each place is nestled amidst the pristine wilderness, offering you an unparalleled experience, surrounded by the majestic beauty of nature. Dive deep into the heart of the forest, wake up to the soothing sounds of nature, and let the awe-inspiring landscapes take your breath away. Begin browsing and let the adventure begin!
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