Ursus Arctos Horribilis – The Grizzly Bear Sculpture at Oviatt Bike Park

Standing at an impressive 15 feet high, the roaring Grizzly bear sculpture (Ursus Arctos Horribilis) commands attention as the centerpiece of the Oviatt Bike Park in Kitimat, BC. This larger-than-life sculpture pays homage to one of the most powerful and iconic species of British Columbia’s wilderness.

The Grizzly bear—a subspecies of the brown bear—is known for its sheer size, strength, and formidable presence. Adults can weigh anywhere from 400 to over 1,500 pounds and stand as tall as 10 feet on their hind legs. In the wild, they are apex predators, playing a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance by controlling prey populations and influencing plant growth through their feeding behaviors. Revered in Indigenous cultures and feared by those who live in bear country, the Grizzly symbolizes the untamed beauty and raw power of the wild landscapes it inhabits.

Installed in the Oviatt Bike Park, this sculpture serves not only as a tribute to the natural wildlife of the region but also as a testament to the strength and spirit of the wilderness. The bike skills park, generously donated to the City of Kitimatby philanthropist Jack Oviatt, creates an engaging space for cyclists of all ages and skill levels. The Grizzly bearinstallation stands as a reminder of the vast and untamed wilderness that surrounds Kitimat, encouraging both locals and visitors to connect with nature and the outdoors.