Safe Haven

See what's happening in Grinder and Coola's mountaintop habitat

Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife

Imagine a wilderness sanctuary where endangered animals can explore and play, knowing they’re safe and secure. You’ll find all this and more at our research, education and conservation centre on the mountain. The Refuge also offers leading-edge interpretative programs that make learning about nature fun and fascinating - and it’s all included in your Alpine Experience ticket.
 

Ranger Talks

How do you know when Grizzly Bears are playing or when they really mean business? Why do ravens hover in the sky more at certain times of the day? Our rangers know. Included in your Alpine Experience ticket are talks by our wildlife experts or check out their blog entries to keep up-to-date on our favourite furry residents.

Grinder

Grinder was found in 2001 in Invermere, BC. He was wandering alone on a logging road, dehydrated, thin, weak and weighing only 4.5 kg. His mother was never found so we’ll probably never know why he was alone. Grinder is outgoing and high-spirited. He has established himself as the dominant bear despite his smaller size. If you see Grinder and Coola play fighting, you can bet he started it. 

Coola

In 2001, Coola was found orphaned on a highway near Bella Coola, BC. His mother had been killed by a truck and, of her three cubs, Coola was the only one to survive. Coola is an easygoing bear who’s content to let Grinder take the lead in new discoveries. He can usually be found submerged up to his neck in the large pond, carefully feeling around for his underwater 'bath toys' - a log, large bone and favourite rock. 

Breakfast with the Bears

Enjoy early Skyride access, learn during an interactive Ranger Talk with a bear feeding, and watch Grinder and Coola explore their habitat before heading to the Grizzly Lookout Cafe for a beary delicious breakfast. Available throughout the summer

Owls

At Grouse Mountain we appreciate and respect wild places and wildlife. In Summer 2012 we’ve launched our Remarkable Raptors program to help bring presence and reverence for birds of prey. Learn more about these fascinating birds this summer at our Owl Interpretive Sessions running everyday at 10:45am.

Hummingbirds

Grouse Mountain is an active participant in the North American Hummingbird Monitoring Network. Our team maintains a feeding station on top of the Mountain and carries out hummingbird monitoring sessions every two weeks in the spring and summer. By carrying out this important research every year, a larger picture of hummingbird ecology, migration and behavior is being put together across North America.