Summer in British Columbia means the Kispiox Valley, located 1,200km north of Vancouver, is overflowing with life. Quite literally as the mighty Kispiox River reaches its highest levels of the year, giving visitors to Bear Claw Lodge a chance to explore the bends and beaches on kayaks, rafts or paddle boards.
Beyond the River the land is thriving. Wildflowers spread like a vivid carpet across the Valley, shining with blues, purples, reds and yellows. Above, the Skeena Mountain Ranges stand tall, painted in emerald greens and earthy browns. That’s the big picture. Take a minute to look closer and you’ll find mushrooms, berries and herbs that can be turned into jams, salves, oils and tinctures. While you’re there, breathe deeply and smell the lilacs, wild roses and spruce trees. Stand still for long enough and you’ll witness summer snow, cotton that has been released and sent dancing into the air by mature cottonwood trees.
Want to know more about experiencing the Kispiox Valley in summer? Read on to find out what one of Bear Claw’s long time guests loves about this special part of British Columbia…
Meet Donna and Paul Kranhold!
The people who come to stay at Bear Claw Lodge are what gives the place its heart and soul. Donna and Paul Kranhold who have been visiting every September for many years are perfect examples. Here are a few of their favourite Bear Claw memories…
Donna, you obviously love spending your summers in British Columbia at Bear Claw Lodge. Tell us about one of your most memorable fishing experiences?
Donna: It would have to be the summer of 2013 when it was really warm and I caught my first BIG steel head, and the fish just kept biting. It was so awesome. We were out with [our guide] Jimmy and it was just the best day ever.
A visit to Bear Claw isn’t just about fishing and the outdoors, can you describe something you love about the lodge itself?
Donna: From the moment you arrive and the inside staff are waiting for you at the door to the wake-up calls to the special drink in your thermos for the day… it’s the special touches that keep you coming back. Plus, the entertainment factor with the Allen family is just the cherry on top of it all.
What is it that keeps you coming back?
Donna: It’s heaven on earth. It’s quiet, it’s fairly unknown, it’s beauty is insane and it holds a water system that we don’t want anyone to know about. Paul and I have fallen so hard we bought a place on the river.
You brought your great nieces to Bear Claw in 2019, can you tell us what they enjoyed most about their camp experience?
Donna: The girls got to see another world being at kid’s camp. Their best experience during the week was the games, outdoor camping, the food and the friends they made. As a parent, the confidence they built within themselves was a great bonus. Joy Allen teaching the kids to give a toast is what it’s all about!
Summer in British Columbia is all About Adventure
There is so much to love about a visit to Bear Claw Lodge. Make sure you get in touch to find out more!
