The picturesque village of Bella Coola is situated in a secluded valley in the province of British Columbia and serves as the main gateway to the famous Great Bear Rainforest. When planning a journey to this remote corner of Canada, travellers can choose between a breathtaking flight over the mountains, a scenic drive by car, or a sea voyage by ferry. This destination is ideal for those seeking a connection with pristine nature, far away from the noise of the metropolises.
How to get to Bella Coola
How to get to nearby cities
How to Get There: Introduction
By Plane
The fastest way to reach the region is a direct flight to the local Bella Coola Airport (QBC). This small but important transport hub receives regular flights and allows tourists to find themselves in the heart of the valley just one hour after departing from Vancouver.
Alternatively, one may consider flying to Anahim Lake, from where a descent by car along a winding mountain road awaits. Airports in the settlements of Bella Bella and Port Hardy also accept flights, but the subsequent transfer to the final destination will require a connection via ferry or seaplane, as there is no direct road from there.
Available plane tickets
By Train
Direct rail service to the village of Bella Coola is completely absent due to the complex mountainous terrain of this part of Canada. The nearest major railway hubs are located hundreds of kilometres away, so the train is not a suitable option for planning a route to this region.
Even if you reach neighbouring settlements, such as Anahim Lake, the remaining journey must be covered exclusively by road transport. Train enthusiasts should consider other regions of the country, while here, the primary means of transport remain cars and light aviation.
The city has no major railway stations. Nearest cities with rail connections:
Available train tickets
By Bus
Regular intercity bus service to the town of Bella Coola is poorly developed and often seasonal in nature. Travellers should not rely on standard scheduled buses as a primary method to reach the valley from major cities.
The most reliable option remains finding private tourist shuttles or renting transport in the nearest accessible locations, for example, in the town of Anahim Lake. It is recommended to check the schedule with local carriers in advance, as routes may change depending on the season and weather conditions.
By Car
The main driving route leads through Anahim Lake via the famous Highway 20. The distance is approximately 135 km, and the travel time will take about 2 hours, including the descent along the legendary "The Hill" section, which offers breathtaking views.
Reaching the valley by car from the cities of Port Hardy (on Vancouver Island) or Bella Bella is possible only by using the BC Ferries service. There are no direct overland roads between these points and the valley, so when planning your trip, it is necessary to consider the ferry schedule and book vehicle spaces well in advance.
Travel Tips
A trip to Bella Coola is a true adventure in the wild, requiring careful preparation and respect for local conditions. To ensure your journey is comfortable and safe, please make use of the following advice:
- Clothing and Gear: Weather in the mountains and on the coast changes instantly. Be sure to bring layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy trekking shoes.
- Transport: To travel around the region, it is best to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle (4x4), as many interesting locations are accessible only via gravel roads.
- Finances: The main currency is the Canadian dollar. There are very few ATMs in the valley, and cards are not accepted everywhere, so always keep a sufficient supply of cash with you.
- Health and Safety: This is grizzly bear territory. Purchase bear spray, learn the rules of conduct when encountering wild animals, and never leave food outdoors.
- Communication: Mobile signal and internet may be absent outside the main village. It is recommended to download offline maps of the area in advance.
- Refuelling: Petrol stations are rarely encountered and close early in the evening. Make it a rule to fill a full tank at every opportunity.
- Planning: Accommodation and excursions, especially bear-watching tours, should be booked several months in advance due to the limited number of places.
By following these recommendations, you will avoid logistical inconveniences and be able to fully enjoy the majestic beauty of Canadian nature.
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