Dean Channel is the common return route from a trip up Burke Channel to Bella Coola. Alternatively, if you have elected to pass by Burke Channel, a run up Dean Channel at least as far as Ocean Falls and the Sir Alexander MacKenzie cairn is common. The channel is about 46 NM in length with powerful scenery and, unlike many fjords, there are several good places to spend a night at anchor. Eucott Bay (52 27.212 N 127 18.455 W) is near the junction of North Bentinck Arm and Dean Channel, a short haul from Bella Coola. Several ribbon-like waterfalls cascade from hidden heights. There is an accessible hot spring, well marked by pilings and easily visible. The bay is shallow with firm anchoring for several boats in 4-5 m. Cascade Inlet (52 25.06 N, 127 25.13 W) is well-named; deep, steep-walled, with several spectacular waterfalls (in season). You may prefer just to explore, but if you wish to spend a night, best location is on the NE side near the head in 20 m. Elcho Harbour (52 22.34 N,127 29.12 W) is the place where Sir Alexander MacKenzie commemorated his arrival on the Pacific shore in 1793. A rock inscription is about 13 m up on a bank near the entrance to the Harbour above a shallow, gravel nook. There is protected, firm anchorage in about 22 m in the NE corner.
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