Bald Eagles of British Columbia
December 3-7 2026;
December 2-6 2027
Experience the lush, misty winter of Squamish, British Columbia, where December is defined by one of the most spectacular bald eagle gatherings on the coast. Drawn by spawning salmon, hundreds of eagles converge along the rivers, soaring overhead, crowding the treetops, and feeding in dramatic, close-range encounters that form the heart of this experience. Around them, the landscape comes alive with great blue herons stalking the shallows, gulls and waterfowl assembling in impressive numbers, and flurries of smaller forest birds animating the rainforest edges. This immersive 5-day photography expedition is designed around eagle behaviour and peak activity, with a small group and flexible schedule that allows us to adapt to changing light and wildlife moments. From misty, atmospheric river scenes to intense eagle interactions, each day offers powerful opportunities to capture the essence of this coastal winter spectacle.
Wild Pacific Edge
Winter reveals a dynamic coastal landscape across Squamish’s rivers and floodplains
Snow-dusted peaks rise above misty valleys and layered terrain
Braided channels, mossy forests, and estuaries add depth and atmosphere
Explore accessible sites from forest edges to open riverbanks, chasing the best light
Ever-changing conditions offer fresh perspectives on the Coast Mountains
Winter Wildlife Gathering
December delivers one of the BC coast’s most concentrated wildlife events
Spawning salmon draw in a remarkable diversity of species
Bald eagles dominate with frequent, close-range feeding and interaction
Herons, gulls, and waterfowl line the river’s edge
Constant movement creates rich opportunities to capture behaviour and intensity
Workshops in Motion
Built around real-time conditions in a dynamic environment
Learn to photograph fast-paced wildlife and low-light scenes
Develop composition skills in busy, ever-changing settings
Small group allows for personalized, one-on-one guidance
Refine technique, anticipate behaviour, and create stronger images
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Squamish
Welcome to Squamish! After settling in to our accommodations, we’ll head over to the local grocery store so you can pick up any food and personal supplies for the trip. In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner where you’ll get a chance to meet the group, as we review our strategy for the days ahead, and get excited for the adventure to come!
Days 2–4 – Into the Field
These three full days are dedicated to exploring the rivers, estuaries, and forest edges surrounding Squamish in search of peak wildlife activity. Each day is intentionally flexible, allowing us to adapt to weather, light, and animal movement, maximizing our chances of meaningful encounters and strong photographic opportunities. Expect early starts, time spent observing and waiting, and extended sessions when the action unfolds.
Throughout the trip, we’ll offer a mix of in-field instruction and optional workshops back at the accommodation, including one-on-one support tailored to your goals. Whether refining camera settings, improving composition, or reviewing images, we’ll help you make the most of every opportunity and continue building your skills.
Day 5 – Departure
Our final day brings a relaxed wrap-up before our mid-morning checkout, where we’ll reminisce, say goodbye, and head home with full memory cards!
Where We’ll Go
Based in Squamish, our 5-day expedition is centered around three full days of exploration across one of the most dynamic winter ecosystems on the BC coast. Rather than following a fixed route, each day is guided by conditions. We look for where wildlife activity is strongest, where light breaks through the clouds, and where the best photographic opportunities are unfolding in real time. We’ll move between river systems, estuaries, and forest edges, positioning ourselves to capture everything from intimate wildlife encounters to sweeping, atmospheric landscapes.
Winter here is raw and unpredictable. Expect heavy rain along with cold temperatures and thick coastal fog that can transform familiar scenes into something moody and cinematic. These conditions are part of what makes Squamish so compelling to photograph, but they also demand patience (and appropriate gear). Wildlife movement can ebb and flow, and the most powerful moments often come to those willing to wait, observe, and adapt. With a flexible approach and time on our side, we maximize our chances of being in the right place when everything comes together.
Photography Skills You’ll Build
Photography Basics
Build a strong foundation in exposure, focus modes, and shooting techniques for wildlife and low-light conditions. We’ll also cover gear setup and care for wet, cold coastal environments.
Capturing Eagles in Motion
Develop the skills to photograph fast-moving subjects, with a focus on bald eagles in flight and feeding behavior. Learn to track action, anticipate moments, and dial in settings for sharp, dynamic images.
Working in Winter Light & Weather
Embrace the challenges of December on the BC coast. We’ll cover techniques for shooting in rain, fog, and flat light, using atmosphere, contrast, and mood to create compelling, story-driven images.
Phone Photography
Learn how to get the most out of your phone for quick, creative captures in the field. Many core techniques translate across devices, helping you document moments when your camera isn’t in hand.
Curating & Editing Your Work
Refine your images through thoughtful selection and editing. We’ll explore how to choose your strongest shots and enhance them with subtle adjustments to light, colour, and composition.
Trip details
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Total Cost is $2445CAD (+tax) per person. We allow a maximum of 8 guests + photography guides. We require a minimum of 3 guests to run the trip.
A non-refundable deposit of $500CAD (+tax) is due upon booking.
The remaining balance ($1945 CAD + tax) is due 90 days before your departure date.
Given the nature of our seasonal business and the relatively small window of operation, cancellations within 90 days of departure are non refundable unless the dates in question are able to be filled. We will make every attempt to try and fill your spot in order to issue a full refund (minus a 10% transaction fee), but if unable we reserve the right to keep payment. Travel insurance is required.
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We’ll stay in a spacious private residence reserved exclusively for our group in Squamish. Expect shared bedrooms and bathrooms, along with comfortable communal spaces for editing sessions, workshops, and social time. A full kitchen is available for preparing meals and field lunches, and laundry facilities are on-site.
Genders are never mixed in rooms unless prior arrangements are requested (travel companions, couples, etc.) -
Meals are flexible to suit changing schedules and individual preferences. Prior to the welcome dinner, we’ll stop at a grocery store so guests can purchase food for the trip at their own expense. You’ll prepare your own breakfasts before heading out each day, as well as prep simple field lunches. Dinners can be self-prepared at the house or enjoyed through optional takeout or dining out in town.
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Accommodations: 4 nights in a comfortable, fully equipped home with multiple bedrooms, shared bathrooms, and inviting common areas for workshops and relaxation.
Genders are never mixed in rooms unless prior arrangements are requested (travel companions, couples, etc.)Food: Welcome dinner (dietary needs can be accommodated).
Activities: 3 full days of guided eagle photography.
Transportation: Optional group transfer to/from the airport at a set time, plus all transportation during the trip between locations and accommodations.
Photography: Hands-on workshops and in-field guidance led by experienced photo guides with strong naturalist knowledge and deep familiarity with the region.
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Travel or cancellation insurance (required; see below)
Accommodation before or after the trip
Meals (aside from the welcome dinner)
Guide gratuities
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Air: Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is approximately a 1.5–2 hour drive from Squamish. Group transfer from the airport is available at 2:00 PM on arrival day, with a return transfer departing Squamish at 10:00 AM on the final day.
Car: Squamish is easily accessible via the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99).
Bus: Convenient public transportation is available directly from the airport or downtown Vancouver. Shuttle to and from bus station in Squamish can be provided upon request.
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Prior to departure, passengers must have in place, comprehensive insurance coverage including medical and emergency evacuation, trip cancellation and interruption, and baggage insurance. This is at your expense and we will require proof of insurance. Any losses experienced because of incorrect travel planning or not securing adequate insurance will also be the full responsibility of the guest.
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This is a soft-adventure expedition, designed to be accessible and unhurried, with minimal hiking and little travel over strenuous terrain.
British Columbia’s West Coast is famously dynamic, and autumn weather can shift quickly. Cool temperatures, coastal winds, and changing ocean conditions mean that proper layers and waterproof gear are essential for comfort and safety throughout the trip.
Participants should be comfortable traveling together by car between locations, sometimes on unpaved roads in remote settings.
To make the most of peak light and wildlife activity, select outings will take place in the early morning and late evening, when conditions are best for photography.
Accommodations include shared rooms with shared bathrooms.
Genders are never mixed in rooms unless prior arrangements are requested (travel companions, couples, etc.)
