Brackendale has always been prime bear territory, situated along the nutrient-rich Squamish and Cheakamus rivers. For thousands of years, black bears have thrived here by timing their movements with seasonal food sources like salmon and berries. In 2010, Squamish became only the second community in B.C. to earn official Bear Smart status, a commitment to reducing human-wildlife conflict that continues today through strict garbage bylaws and community education. 

The Resurgence of the Grizzly

While black bears are the common "neighbors" you might see crossing a trail, the Grizzly Bear (Stl'lhalem) is making a significant return to the area.

• The Upper Squamish Population: Recent estimates suggest a thriving population of approximately 59 grizzly bears in the Upper Squamish Valley. 
• A Protected Cultural Icon: The Squamish Nation views the grizzly as a "cultural umbrella species". In 2015, they passed a formal resolution to protect and recover the Stl'lhalem on their traditional territory, recognizing its presence as a key indicator of the land's health. 

What makes Brackendale bears special is the community's unique relationship with them. It’s a place where "living with wildlife" isn't just a slogan—it’s a lifestyle. Residents meticulously secure attractants to keep bears wild and safe, and local photographers have even "named" famous recurring bears like Bonnie, Clyde, and Big Bertha. Seeing a bear here is a reminder that we are part of a delicate, functioning ecosystem where humans and wildlife can coexist.