September 6-11, 2024
With Michelle Valberg & Tamara Lackey
$8495 USD

1 Michelle Valberg by Lindsey Gibeau _Z724626 copy 2.jpg

Michelle Valberg
Nikon Ambassador
IG - @michellevalbergphotography

Join Michelle and Tamara for a photographic workshop to one of the best grizzly viewing opportunities in Western Canada. Photograph the abundant grizzlies as they hunt for salmon in the azure blue waters of Chilko Lake and the Chilko River! Stay in riverside safari-style tents perched high above the waters while grizzlies feed on salmon right in front of you.

Remote and spectacular, the Chilcotin Country of British Columbia remains largely undiscovered by outsiders. Chilko Lake lies at the heart of this vast and diverse region, flanked by the jagged, ice-etched Coast Range on the west and sage-covered plateaus on the east. The lake, a 55-mile-long alpine basin filled with clear glacial water, is our base for natural adventure on a scale rarely encountered. From our wilderness camp we will embark on nature walks, river trips and lake excursions that bring us close to the abundant wildlife that thrives in the Chilcotin: Canada’s true “Wild West.”

Based out of Bear Camp, guests will be dazzled by fine food, great hospitality and a “Canadian twist” on the classic wildlife safari.

Tamara Lackey
Nikon Ambassador
IG -@tamaralackey
Website: tamaralackey.com

Hotel and dinner in Vancouver on Sept 6th in included
Workshop in Vancouver on Sept 6th from 11am-4pm with Michelle & Tamara (lunch included)
A scenic flight over the Coast Mountains and transfer to Bear Camp
Be amazed by the abundance of grizzlies, black bears and eagles feasting on spawning salmon
Watch grizzlies feed on salmon below your deck and while on daily excursions
Explore the Coast Mountains, Chilko and Tatlayoko lakes by canoe, kayak, boat, and on foot
Paddle and fish the breath-taking azure waters of Chilko River
Hike or bike on paths enveloped by awe-inspiring mountains
Enjoy home-cooked meals and evening “feasts” paired with eclectic wines and craft beer
Unwind with a book, or do nothing but drink in the spectacular scenery
Half the trip cost is required for deposit to book your spot - final payment is due 90 days prior to trip
Maximum number of photographers is 12 with additional 4 spots for spouses or guests who can hike, paddle, horseback ride or ATV.

Bear Camp Itinerary

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Day One (Sept 6) - Vancouver Photo Workshop with Michelle and Tamara. Welcome dinner.

Day Two (Sept 7) – Fly to Bear Camp

We will board our plane for the incredible flight over the mountains and glaciers. Upon arrival, your guides will give you an orientation to the events ahead and we’ll enjoy the first of many delicious meals in our wilderness setting.

Though we are here to encounter nature, the camp environs are also captivating. Your safari tents are built up on large viewing platforms and have either one king or two double beds complete with comfy duvets, indoor/outdoor lounging areas and a view that cannot be beat. The main tent and renovated 1954 Trappers Lodge are the focal points for meals, cocktails and relaxing. Fine fare is a ROAM hallmark, and our chef creates elegant meals using local and regional natural foods. Once checked in we will begin one of or many wildlife viewing options culminating with a sunset paddle or boat ride and bear viewing from our raised platforms.

Each Day at Bear Camp (Sept 8-10)

Every morning before breakfast we offer coffee/tea delivery to your tent. Watching the bears as the sun rises is otherworldly and something everyone should experience. After breakfast, we offer a host of activities to choose from based on weather, people’s interests and energy levels. All the activities incorporate bear viewing as a key component but there’s no sitting around Camp, unless you choose too! We prefer to engage with our local bruins while explore this incredible environment.

The Chilko River lies within an ecosystem that contains some of the world’s best habitat for grizzly bears. They converge in great numbers in the fall, when millions of salmon return to spawn at the river’s mouth, providing a feast of stunning proportions. Black bears, wolves and cougars also abound in the pine and fir forests.

Last Day (Sept 11)

After another amazing breakfast, we will leave Bear Camp and get ready for flights home. You should arrive mid-afternoon but we always recommend overnighting in Vancouver at the end of the trip in case of weather issues with smaller aircraft. ROAM would be pleased to make Vancouver accommodation arrangements on your behalf as we often get preferred rates.