cranbrook bc tourism

Why go anywhere else?

When you can find all there is and more right here in your own backyard, when you step back and check it out you definitely realize instantly why Cranbrook is a great place to call home, and has so much to offer that really … why would you need to go anywhere else!? Beautiful mountains, lush forests, local attractions combined with the small town feel, and friendly people. There are so many reasons to visit, stay and play right here.

Events & Attractions

Pristine Wildlife

It’s a common sight to see deer roam the streets of Cranbrook, but you won’t need to look far to find many more beautiful animals who also call this area home.

welcome to cranbrook

Surrounded by the beautiful Purcell and Rocky Mountains, and smothered in sunshine most of the year, we are very happy you have arrived! Start your adventure, make memories and check out all Cranbrook has to …

Visit Fort Steele Heritage Town

Take a step back in time and discover the historic town of Fort Steele. Visited each year by over 80,000 people, this unique attraction showcases the history of the Cranbrook area.

Cranbrook Trains – Canadian Museum of Rail Travel

Tour one of Cranbrook’s tourist gems, and learn all about the Canadian Pacific Railway, as you explore the classic rail cars, and visit the beautiful Royal Alexandra Hall.

History of Cranbrook

The City of Cranbrook began as a railway and resource town, born with the arrival in 1898 of the Crowsnest Railway. The City of Cranbrook was incorporated in 1905 and has long served as the regional centre for the East Kootenay and a divisional point for the Canadian Pacific Railway. Europeans first visited the area in the early nineteenth century and began to settle here in the1860’s.

The ancestors of the Ktunaxa people have lived on these lands since long before the arrival of Europeans. Their traditional territory extends within the Kootenay region and areas in Alberta, Montana, Washington and Idaho. Their local presence is centred on the site of the former St. Eugene Mission, just east of Cranbrook, home of the St. Mary’s Indian Band and offices of the Ktunaxa Kinbasket Treaty Council. The St. Eugene Church opened its doors in 1898, the same year that the railway reached Cranbrook.

The City of Cranbrook has a number of properties protected under Heritage Designation and is in the process of re-launching a Heritage Registry to recognize properties that have significance to our community.

Resources & Links

• > The City of Cranbrook Visitors and Residents will find important information and links for anything they may need to know about the City of Cranbrook. City Council, Taxes, Job Opportunities, News and Transfer Station hours … check out this link to answer your questions.
• > Cranbrook Tourism Tourists look no further … all the info you need while visiting Cranbrook can be found here! Find out what’s happening by checking the events calendar, find local attraction & activity information.
• > The Cranbrook Chamber Find out about East Kootenay area businesses and services, or how to become a Chamber member. The Chamber represents the business community and plays a vital role for ensuring future sustainability and success in Cranbrook’s economy.
• > The Cranbrook Railway Museum Discover what the museum has to offer, view photos from inside the rail cars and find information on tours that are offered. Book the beautiful Alexandra Hall for your next function, and find out more by checking out this site.
• Regional District of East Kootenay Offering over 100 services for the entire region, the RDEK is a local government who works together with municipalities and electoral (rural) areas to provide and coordinate these services.
• Kootenay Ice Hockey Find out when you can catch the next Ice game, and find out scores from ones you missed! This site will keep you up to date and in touch with our local WHL team who have won numerous league titles, and even captured the Memorial Cup!

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Explore Cranbrook

Plan your trip to cranbrook: best of cranbrook tourism.

Essential Cranbrook

Cranbrook Is Great For

• Three Bars Guest Ranch
• St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino
• Days Inn & Conference Centre By Wyndham Cranbrook
• Elizabeth Lake Lodge
• Prestige Rocky Mountain Resort
• Allegra Restaurant
• The Heid Out Restaurant and Brewhouse
• Tim Hortons
• Fire Hall Kitchen & Tap
• Cranbrook History Centre
• Jimsmith Lake Provincial Park
• Elizabeth Lake Lodge Mini Golf
• Cranbrook Aquatic Centre
• Casino of the Rockies

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Cranbrook

Things to do in cranbrook.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Cranbrook History Centre

2. Jimsmith Lake Provincial Park

3. St. Eugene Golf Course

4. Cranbrook Aquatic Centre

5. Casino of the Rockies

6. Cranbrook Farmer's Market

7. Cranbrook Community Theatre - Studio/Stage Door

8. Key City Theatre

9. Shadow Mountain

10. Tamarack Centre

11. Wildstone Golf Course

12. Cranbrook Golf Club

13. Mission Hills Golf Course

14. Cranbrook & District Arts Council

15. Elizabeth Lake Lodge Mini Golf

16. Cranbrook Tourism Visitor Information Centre

17. Cranbrook Visitor Centre - Satellite

18. Arq Mountain Centre

19. Wide Open Spaces

20. Encore Brewing Company

21. Shotgun Willy's

22. Cranbrook Photo and Custom Framing

23. Landmark Cinemas Cranbrook

24. Inner Roar Yoga & Wellness

25. where its at clothing.

26. Eclipse Helicopters

27. Just Liquid Sports

What travellers are saying

• Cranbrook History Centre
• Jimsmith Lake Provincial Park
• Casino of the Rockies
• Key City Theatre
• Cranbrook Farmer's Market
• Elizabeth Lake Lodge Mini Golf

Cool and quirky things to do in Cranbrook, BC

As the self-proclaimed ‘Basecamp of the Kootenays,’ the city of Cranbrook in southeast BC could also be called the basecamp for adventure.

Nestled between the Kootenay River and St. Mary River with the Purcells and Rocky Mountains on its doorstep, most things to do in Cranbrook centre around enjoying the great outdoors.

With roots dating back to the gold rush, railroads are a big part of the history here, starting with the arrival of the first CPR passenger train in 1898 which led to a population boom. Visitors can learn all about it at the Cranbrook History Centre, where a rail car collection dating back to the early 1900s provides a glimpse of the past.

Sun-soaked days bring activities like hiking, canoeing, lake floats, biking and fishing, and golf fanatics have their pick of groomed fairways with eight courses in and around the city.

From hidden waterfalls to quirky stays to fun hangout spots, here are the coolest things to do in Cranbrook, BC in fall.

Hit the trails

Adventure-seekers rejoice: with cycling trails, hiking paths and 2191 hours of sunshine per year (the most of anywhere in BC), Cranbrook’s outdoor season lasts all year round.

In fall, larches turn the valleys sunshine gold in place like Tanglefoot Lake and the Mause Creek Tarns nestled in a basin of the Rocky Mountains.

For great views, top Cranbrook hikes are The Bee Line, Windy Bluff and Wycliffe Buttes trails. At Wycliffe, a 20 minute incline leads to panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and St Mary Valley, and it’s a great one to combine with a visit to nearby Marysville Falls.

Cyclists love the Northstar Rails to Trails, a paved, 25 kilometre long pathway along a former CP railway bed linking Cranbrook and Kimberley. Open year round, the gentle grades are ideal for all skill levels so everyone can soak in views of the St. Mary River, Purcells and Steeples range.

Walk to a waterfall

One of the best, free things to do in Cranbrook is heading out for a waterfall walk, with three spectacular sets of falls within a half hour drive of the city.

Marysville Falls

A favourite with families, this easily accessible waterfall is in the cute community of Marysville just outside Kimberley, about 20 minutes north of Cranbrook.

A beautiful wooden bridge and boardwalk leads straight to a viewpoint overlooking the 30-metre falls, and the walk only takes about five minutes each way.

Moyie Falls

This former gold mining claim holds another treasure: Moyie Falls, one of the prettiest waterfalls near Cranbrook, BC.

Sometimes referred to as Lumberton Falls, it only takes 15-20 minutes to get to the beautiful waterfall tucked into the end of a narrow canyon. The hike in includes a short river crossing, then along the rocky riverbed until the thundering falls come into view.

Keep an eye out for the Lucky Friday Minesite which extends nearly 250 m underground near the base of the falls: there are remnants scattered around both sides, including the two main entrances.

Driving directions: Head west on Highway 3 and turn right on Lumberton Road. Just after the 7 kilometre marking sign, there’s a small pullout on the left. Park near the yellow gate, and walk past it which is where the trailhead begins.

Perry Creek Falls

This is gorgeous set of falls is close to Cranbrook—however, you’ll have to work a bit just to get to the trailhead. There’s an approximately 7 kilometre stretch of extremely rough, rocky logging road on the way up, so it’s best to drive up in a truck or take it very slow.

One you make it to to the trail, the 20 minute walk in features a grassy clearing, an old cabin, a towering canopy of trees and a knotty wood footbridge. There’s also a bit of a scramble on the edge of the steep path right near the end, so this hike isn’t recommended for those with accessibility issues.

Eventually you’ll see the falls gushing out of the narrow canyon, and you can view them up close by walking up to the right side of them or admiring them the ledge along the trail.

Driving directions: Head north on Hwy 95A from Cranbrook, and turn left on Wycliffe Park Road. Turn right on Wycliffe Road, then another right onto Perry Creek road. Be sure to keep left on the primary road around the 6.4 km mark, then cross over the bridge two kilometres later. This is where the road gets pretty gnarly, and at the 13 km mark there will be a small parking area pullout on the left.

Eat in a fire station

One of Cranbrook’s hottest restaurants is in a former fire hall—and yes, there’s still a fire pole.

Fire Hall Kitchen & Tap is a craft beer tap and gastropub right downtown, inside a heritage building which dates back to 1929.’

The inventive menu is perfect for fuelling up after a day of adventures, with the burgers and extensive poutine list being crowd faves. Don’t sleep on the $35 nachos, which are loaded with the likes of stripling steak, avo, cheese and fresh jalapeños, and are definitely worth every penny.

BC craft beer is exclusively poured, which can be enjoyed inside or on the sunny, street-facing patio

Another great place to eat in town is The Heid Out & Fisher Peak Brewing Company , a longtime Cranbrook fixture. The menu is an inspired blend of traditional dishes and locally sourced ingredients from the Kootenays, with standout dishes being the Jaeger Schnitzel and South Indian Masala.

You’ll find a lineup of Fisher Peak beers on tap, as well beer cocktails which are the perfect way for those who aren’t usually beer lovers to get in on the fun.

Stay in one of the unique Cranbrook BC hotels

Fancy spending a night in a restored rail car? How about an authentic dude ranch, where days start with trail rides under the shadow of mountain peaks and end with campfire cookouts. Or perhaps a heritage town, in a hotel rumoured to be frequented by ghosts?

These are just some of the unique accommodations in Cranbrook , which are the perfect place to keep the adventure going after a day of outdoor fun. Some of the best places to stay are:

Railcar Designer Suite at Prestige Rocky Mountain Resort

In a nod to the city’s long rail history, a train car dating back to the 1920s has been transformed into two suites: the Sante Fe which is like something out of the Wild West, and the glammed-out Crystal suite complete with dazzling chandeliers.

The train car is parked right along the railway behind the hotel, and guests have access to all on-site amenities including the pool and hot tub. Click here to book

Three Bars Guest Ranch

Charming log cabins and modern cabins complete with private hot tubs and floor-to-ceiling windows sit side-by-side at Three Bars Guest Ranch , located about half an hour northwest of Cranbrook.

Giving off vibes as a summer camp for the whole family, this popular getaway includes activities like cattle sorting, fly fishing, hiking, rafting, and of course, daily trail rides.

Once the sun goes down, guests can grab dinner or a drink in the timber-framed dining hall, relax in the pool or hot tub, gather around the fire pit and go stargazing.

Fort Steele Heritage Town

Travel back in time to this living history museum , which was once a bustling frontier town back in the 1800s. Today it counts horse-drawn wagon rides, an old time theatre, an authentic steam train and gold panning among its many attractions, and is considered one of BC’s most important heritage attractions.

READ MORE: Unique accommodations in Cranbrook, BC

Hit the links at one of the Cranbrook golf courses

Perfect your swing and enjoy sweeping views from the fairway at a Cranbrook golf course: there are an astounding seven courses within 24 minutes between Cranbrook and Kimberly, boasting 18 to 27 holes.

I teed off at Wildstone Golf Course , which is conveniently less than 10 minutes from downtown. The best views are from the front nine, and golfers can admire looming Fischer Peak while swinging at the driving range.

For more information on all of the courses, check out Golf Kimberley Cranbrook.

Bowl at a brewery

Beer and bowling combine at Encore , the best spot for a fun night out in Cranbrook.

This family-friendly venue has eight five-pin bowling lanes, classic arcade games and pool tables, while the hangout spaces have a cool mid-century design vibe complete with couches and board games.

Colourful cocktails are available at the taproom, along with their namesake beer and tasty treats like tacos and pizzas made with dough infused with spent barley and wheat from the brewery.

Peek through the glass windows into the adjoining working brewery, and see where all the magic happens.

Head out on the water

Thanks to its enviable perch west of the Kootenay River and south of the St. Mary River, Cranbrook is a paddler’s paradise. Grab your rod and head out with St. Mary Angler Fly Shop for guided fishing, in hopes of reeling in bass, perch, rainbow trout or bull trout in one of the nearby lakes, rivers and streams which are fully stocked by the Kootenay Trout Hatchery.

Kayakers and standup paddle boarders will want to head to Moyie Lake, Wasa Lake, St. Mary Lake, Mineral Lake or Lake Koocanusa to enjoy a day on the water while soaking in the mountain views. For a more laid-back outing, grab a floatie and head to Jimsmith Lake or Peckham’s Lake in Norbury Lake Provincial Park, a favourite with locals thanks to its calm waters.

Need a vessel? Just Liquid Sports loans out SUPs, canoes and kayaks, and also runs community paddle nights during the summer.

Relax in the hot springs

Wind down after all that excitement with a dip in Lussier Hot Springs , located about an hour north of Cranbrook near Canal Flats in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park.

Four hot pools were naturally built along the Lussier River using stones and boulders, and the steamy thermal waters vary between 34°C to a toasty 47°C, making this the perfect place to relax when autumn’s chill sets in.

Entrance is free, there’s a change room and toilet near the roadway, and the springs are open year round. Please be mindful to do your part to keep this area pristine by packing out what you pack in.

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY:

• Best things to do in Fernie, BC in fall
• Kootenays calling: The best spots to explore from Nelson to Kaslo
• 10 adventurous things to do in Revelstoke, BC (in summer)

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

Things to Do in Cranbrook and St. Eugene Resort

June 28, 2022 By Matthew G. Bailey 1 Comment

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Located in the Southeastern region of British Columbia’s Kootenay region, in a valley between the southern Rocky Mountains and the Purcell Mountains, there are lots of fun things to do in Cranbrook and St. Eugene Resort.

It’s also a perfect stop on a Kootenay BC Road Trip , as it’s only one hour west of Fernie and 30 minutes south of Kimberley.

Whether you’re looking to go biking, hiking, skiing, golfing, or admiring some of the oldest trains in the country, there’s something for everyone in Cranbrook and St.Eugene, British Columbia . In this guide, we’ll fill you in on all the best things to do so that you can plan your next trip!

Cranbrook History Centre

Those interested in trains and history will not want to miss the Cranbrook History Centre . Not only is it a decent place to learn about Cranbrook’s history and see some fossils and historical photos, but it’s especially wonderful for anyone interested in beautiful old trains.

There are permanent collections that preserve artifacts and records of the history of Cranbrook, the East Kootenay region, and Canadian railways. However, for us, the highlight was taking the Grand Tour, which includes a guided tour of the 17 railway cars. This is a rare chance to see and walk through some amazing rail cars, such as the 1929 “Trans-Canada Limited” (a classic “Jazz Era Art Deco” design), 2 cars of the 1907 “Soo-Spokane Train” (a deluxe example of “Edwardian Art Nouveau Elegance”), and the 1927 executive night car “Strathcona” which has housed many VIP guests during its time in service, including Queen Elizabeth II, John & Jackie Kennedy and Sir Winston Churchill.

With mountains and valleys, Cranbook is an excellent place to strap on your boots and go for a nature hike. Whether you’re looking for something easy and low-key or something more strenuous, there’s something for all hiking types. Some popular options include Cooper Lake (great for a simple flat walk), Fisher Peak (great for a full-day challenge), and Wycliffe Buttes (for a stunning view).

However, another popular place for both hiking and biking is the Cranbrook Community Forest, which is home to more than 2000 acres of crown forest land. In the winter, it’s also popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. It’s also super close to town, making it very accessible.

Learn more by visiting the best Cranbrook hikes from Cranbrook tourism .

Bike the North Star Rails to Trails

If you’re looking for an easy trail to ride, consider the 26-km long North Star Rails to Trails pathway , a paved trail that links Cranbrook to Kimberley via an old train track. Actually, you don’t have to bike it. You can also walk it or cross-country ski the trail in the winter. We rented e-bikes from North Star Bicycle Co, which made it a very easy and fun day out. Rather than do the whole trail, we went halfway, passing the scenic bridge that crosses the St. Mary River before going up a hill for views over Wycliffe. The e-bikes make it much easier to do the entire trail in less than an hour.

Cranbrook is a great place for golfing. For those wanting to keep it local, you’ll want to check out the Cranbrook Golf Club right in the city centre. It’s a 17-hole course that is surrounded by tall evergreen trees, making it a relaxing environment to hit some balls.

Another option is the Wildstone Golf Course, which is considered one of the most beautiful courses around. Every section of the course has sweeping views of the mountains and it’s much more challenging than the Cranbrook Gold Club.

If that’s still not enough for you, there’s also Shadow Mountain Golf Course, Mission Hills Golf Course, and another stunning golf course at St. Eugene Resort and Casino.

Play Mini Golf

If driving balls hundreds of yards isn’t your thing, how about a game of mini-golf? We love mini golf and one of the best courses we’ve ever seen is at Elizabeth Lake Lodge . Known as the most challenging mini-golf course in Western Canada, you’ll find all sorts of amazing obstacles, props, and buildings. Water features, bridges, loop-de-loops, and even a ball elevator are just some of the surprises you’ll find as you traverse the 18-hole course.

On another note, Elizabeth Lake Lodge is also a fabulous place to stay and right behind it is a bird sanctuary that’s perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Walk at Elizabeth Lake Bird Sanctuary

As mentioned above, right behind Elizabeth Lake Lodge is the Elizabeth Lake Bird Sanctuary , a wonderful place to go for a stroll and spot some local wildlife such as western painted turtles and migratory birds.

This sanctuary features more than 5.9 hectares of protected wetlands with multiple walking trails, picnic tables, and benches to enjoy. During the summer months, there are volunteers at the visitor centre that can tell you all about the animals and the wetlands.

Visit Fort Steele Heritage Village

Send yourself back in time to the days of the Kootenay Gold Rush at Fort Steele Heritage Village , a living history museum perfect for the whole family.

The origins of Fort Steele can be traced back to the small settlement of Galbraith Ferry born during the 1864 Kootenay Gold Rush. Today, there are 98 incredible structures that have been preserved, maintained or renovated to their original splendour, all for you to enjoy.

Open 363 days per year, with varying levels of programming and special events in effect from season to season, there are so many things to do at Fort Steele, including horse-drawn wagon tours, a steam train ride, live street theatre, live theatre shows, blacksmithing, interpretive demonstrations, a photography studio, and more. There’s also a variety of animals to see, including 15 beautiful Clydesdales, 2 friendly Donkeys and a variety of heritage breed chickens, ducks, turkeys and black pigs.

Plus, if you’re looking for a truly special experience, you can spend the night in the historic Windsor Hotel, which has been fully renovated back to its former glory. The Windsor stands to this day in its original location and is classified as an official heritage building. Be one of the first to stay in this historic hotel since it last closed its doors back in 1955.

Fort Steele is just 20 minutes from Cranbrook and welcomes visitors spring through to fall. Summer is the busiest tourism season, with the most activities and demonstrations to check out.

Drink Local Beer

Although there’s only one local brewery in town, it’s a good one!

The Heid Out Restaurant & Brewhouse, which is also one of the most popular restaurants in Cranbrook, is an award-winning brewery with a range of beers for all tastebuds. Beer options include a Wild Horse Belgian Ale, Prospector Pilsner, Blonde Ale, Kain Ginger, Soggy Otter Brown Ale, Dark and Stormy Porter, Elephant Run IPA, and Hell Roaring Scottish Ale, the latter of which recently won GOLD at both the 2018 Canadian Brewing Awards and the British Columbia Beer Awards.

But, as mentioned, aside from beer, they also offer a menu with food prepared by 6 Red Seal Chefs, including Curry Chicken Masala, Lemongrass Noodle Bowl and 10 oz Flame Grilled Ribeye.

Go Paddling

With a variety of lakes nearby, Cranbrook is also a great place to go for a paddle. Whether you’re looking to go kayaking, paddleboarding, or canoeing, there’s a variety of options, such as Jimsmith Lake Provincial Park, Norbury Lakes, Moyie Lake, or even the Kootenay River if you know what you’re doing.

If you don’t have your own gear, there are places in Cranbrook to rent kayaks and paddle-boards

Cranbrook Farmers Market

Farmers’ markets are all the rage these days, so if that’s what you’re into, consider shopping at the Cranbrook Farmers Market. There are loads of options for food here, so don’t eat beforehand, but there are also more than 20+ local artisans selling all sorts of craft goods.

Generally open on Saturdays between 10 am and 1 pm, it’s a wonderful place to spend a weekend morning with lots of beautiful sights, smells, and sounds.

Enjoy Some Great Cranbrook Restaurants

Cranbrook has a number of delicious places to eat and one of the most famous is The Heid Out, which we mentioned earlier in the article as a great place for locally brewed beer as well. However, another very popular option is Fire Hall Kitchen and Tap, a top-rated Brew Pub that exclusively pours BC craft beers within a historic Firehall. Even the story of how they got started is quite inspiring. Despite the array of restaurants in Cranbrook, they always found themselves driving to Kimberley for a different type of dining experience that combined fun, quality, selection, and Kootenay culture. They then took that passion and opened their own version of their perfect dining experience in Cranbrook.

Other options include Allegra Restaurant, Family Thai Restaurant, Sakura Sushi & Grill, and many others.

Visit St. Eugene Resort & Casino

Have you ever dreamed of sleeping in a former residential school? We certainly did not, but after visiting St. Eugene’s Resort , I can wholeheartedly recommend it. Yes, the main building of this resort, which is known as the Red Brick Schoolhouse, is a former residential school that traumatized and abused thousands of Indigenous children that were forced away from their homes. However, the St. Mary’s Band of the local Ktunaxa Nation decided that rather than demolish it, they’d transform it into a source of pride, creating a fashionable resort and the only one of its kind in Canada.

Now, it is truly one of the most beautiful historic buildings we’ve seen in Canada and is also home to world-class golfing with tremendous views, the Silver Water Spa, the Casino of the Rockies, and some on-site restaurants. There’s also the Ktunaxa Interpretive Centre, which is a great place to learn about the local Indigenous culture and the history of the building.

This one-of-a-kind experience is just a 15-minute drive from Cranbrook.

Visit Kimberley

Located only 30-minutes north of Cranbrook, Kimberley is another beautiful and popular mountain town known for its skiing, outdoor adventure, and unique underground railway mining tour. It can also easily be reached by bike, utilizing the 28-km Rails to Trails pathway we talked about earlier in the article. Even doing it as a day trip is a great experience, taking some time to explore the car-free downtown Platzl and the nearby Marysville Falls.

For those wanting to spend more time there, the summer is typically popular for rafting, fly fishing, and hiking, whereas the winter is popular for downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. If you want more serious downhill skiing, we highly recommend the one-hour drive to Fernie, BC !

Want More Things to Do in the Kootenays and Beyond?

As much as we love Cranbrook, there’s so much more to the Kootenay region and BC in general. There’s also Alberta right next door. For more ideas on what to do, check out these guides below.

• Things to Do in Vancouver
• Things to Do in Vernon
• Things to Do in Kelowna
• Things to Do in Banff
• Things to Do in Calgary
• Crownest Pass Road Trip

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

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August 24, 2022 at 6:29 am

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Cranbrook is a city of approximately 20,000 (2016) (26,000 in the area) that is the primary administrative and commercial center for the Kootenay region in the southeastern corner of British Columbia , Canada . It serves the surrounding area of over 82,000 people.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

The area was inhabited by Ktunaxa peoples. The land that Cranbrook now occupies was bought by European settlers, notably Colonel James Baker who named his newly acquired land Cranbrook after his home in Cranbrook, Kent, England.

In 1898, Baker had convinced Canadian Pacific Railway to establish its Crowsnest Pass line through Cranbrook rather than nearby gold rush boom town Fort Steele. Cranbrook became the major centre of the region, while Fort Steele declined; however, the latter is today a preserved heritage town.

Get in [ edit ]

Cranbrook is often visited unintentionally since it's on British Columbia's Highway 3 that crosses the southern portion of the province. Cranbrook is easily reached in 4 hr of driving from Calgary , and about 10 hr driving from Vancouver .

Cranbrook can be reached from the United States from either Idaho by crossing at the Kingsgate/Eastport crossing on US 95 or from Montana at the Roosville crossing on US-93.

By plane [ edit ]

Airport [ edit ], airlines [ edit ].

Canadian airlines operating to Cranbrook:

Other airlines operating to Cranbrook:

• Delta Air Lines also has a seasonal service 3 times a week from Salt Lake City .

By bus [ edit ]

• Mountain Man Mike's Bus Service , ☏ +1-778-382-7729 , [email protected] . Weekly service between Calgary and Kaslo with stops in Okotoks , High River , Claresholm , Lethbridge , Fort Macleod , Pincher Creek , Sparwood, Fernie , Cranbrook, Creston , Salmo , Nelson , and Balfour . Travel time to Cranbrook, from Calgary is 7 hours, from Lethbridge is 4 hours, from Sparwood is 2 hours, from Nelson is 3 hours, and from Kaslo is 4 hours. This service provider also offers a twice per week service between Kaslo and Vancouver via Nelson. ( updated Mar 2022 )

Get around [ edit ]

Being a small city, getting around Cranbrook is best done by automobile. Some roads in Cranbrook are in poor shape, especially side streets. Main arterial roads, however, have been given some much needed attention in the past couple of years and are generally in good condition.

Most restaurants and hotels are located on Highway 3/95, which is also known as Van Horne Street in the south end of the city and Cranbrook Street in the north end. The whole Hwy 3/95 going through Cranbrook is usually called "The Strip". Downtown stretches along Baker Street.

Much of Cranbrook is pretty flat so biking around town would also be a reasonable option.

By public transit [ edit ]

• Cranbrook's transit system consisting of seven routes connecting residential areas of the city to the downtown area as well as shopping centres. The Cranbrook transit system is geared more towards residents and is not of much use to tourists.
• Two days per week there is bus service between Golden and Cranbrook with a stop in Invermere . Travel time to Cranbrook from Golden is 3.25 to 3.5 hours and from Invermere is 2 hours.
• Two days per week between Creston and Cranbrook with a stop in Yahk. Travel time is 2 hours between Creston and Cranbrook.
• Two days per week between Elkford and Cranbrook with stops in Sparwood and Fernie . Travel time between Cranbrook and Fernie is 1 to 1.25 hours.

By taxi [ edit ]

• Key City Cabs , ☏ +1 250-426-1111 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Star Taxi , ☏ +1 250-426-5511 . ( updated Jul 2022 )

See [ edit ]

Cranbrook has as its backdrop the Rocky Mountains. Any visitor equipped with a camera will find no shortage of locations to photograph nature. Elizabeth Lake, located at the south end of Cranbrook, is a wildlife sanctuary and home to many different birds and animals, ripe for the photographing. Cranbrook dates back to the late 1800s and has lots of history to check out around downtown.

Do [ edit ]

• 49.50896 -115.74343 1 Cranbrook Golf Club , 2700 2nd St S , ☏ +1 250-426-7812 , [email protected] . They call themselves the "Hidden Gem of the Kootenays". Good golf at a good price.  
• 49.5326 -115.7193 2 Cranbrook Community Forest ( east of town along Sylvan Lake Rd ). Has over 100 km of hiking trails. Is a common place for mountain biking. ( updated Mar 2023 )

Learn [ edit ]

• 49.5175 -115.743 1 College of the Rockies - Cranbrook campus , 2700 College Way , ☏ +1 250-489-2751 , toll-free: +1-877-489-2687 . Main campus of this college. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• 49.49527 -115.74921 2 College of the Rockies - Gold Creek campus , 1305 24th Ave S , ☏ +1 250-489-8242 , toll-free: +1-877-489-2687 . Main campus of this college. ( updated Sep 2023 )

Buy [ edit ]

• 49.51216 -115.76753 1 Baker Street ( Baker St near Cranbrook St N ). Along Baker Street is an interesting mix of clothing stores and specialty shops, and also is in the area of Cranbook's downtown. As with many growing cities, the downtown seems to be suffering as more and more people shop at the malls and big box stores located at the north end of the city along Cranbrook St N. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.5248 -115.75005 2 Tamarack Centre , 1500 Cranbrook St N , ☏ +1 250-426-2231 . Has a number of shops, fast food outlets, and a movie theatre. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• With its growing collection of big box stores, Cranbrook is a good place to stock up on supplies before you head into the wilderness There are numerous options on Cranbrook St N (also known as Highway 3 and Highway 95) at the north end of the city.

Canadian dollars are the official currency here, but given Cranbrook's proximity to Idaho and Montana, US dollars may be accepted too. Just ask.

Eat [ edit ]

Cranbrook has most major fast food restaurant chains. Casual dining is somewhat limited and includes chain a number of chain restaurants. You will find that fine dining is severely limited.

Some local favourites include:

• 49.51112 -115.76781 1 Max's Place on Victoria , 301-21 10 Ave S , ☏ +1 250-489-3538 . Trendy coffee shop. A good place for lunch with fresh sandwiches, salads and desserts. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.52674 -115.7518 2 Pita Wrapbit , 1517 Cranbrook St N , ☏ +1 587-227-6009 . Pita Wrapbit specializes in wraps, pitas, juices, soups and smoothies. There is also a location at the College of the Rockies. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.52393 -115.75521 3 East Side Mario's , 1201 Cranbrook Street N , ☏ +1 250-489-2822 . East Side Mario's is everything you like about Italian. The warm welcome, the relaxed, fun and friendly atmosphere - this is the essence of Little Italy. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.51656 -115.76273 4 The Sports Grill , 408 Cranbrook Street N ( south end of strip near petro-can ), ☏ +1 250-489-3525 . In business for 23 years, Perry makes homemade pizza, burgers, steaks and cold pints of draft. Fully licensed. $5-25 . ( updated Mar 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

Cranbrook has its share of bars, most of which are in the downtown core, off Baker Street.

• 49.51154 -115.7674 1 Shotties , 12 10 Ave S , ☏ +1 250-464-0100 . The closest thing to a night club in town. ( updated Mar 2023 )

Sleep [ edit ]

• 49.50176 -115.78945 1 Elizabeth Lake Lodge , 590 Van Horne Street S , ☏ +1 250-426-6114 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.51717 -115.76392 2 Sandman Hotel , 405 Cranbrook St N , ☏ +1 250-426-4236 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.53399 -115.74124 3 Super 8 Motel , 2370 Cranbrook St N , ☏ +1 250-489-8028 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.51994 -115.76036 4 Heritage Inn , 803 Cranbrook St N , ☏ +1 250-489-4301 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.51892 -115.76137 5 Lazy Bear Lodge , 621 Cranbrook Street N , toll-free: +1-888-808-6086 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.50829 -115.77864 6 Prestige Rocky Mountain Resort , 209 Van Horne St S , ☏ +1 250-417-0444 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.58602 -115.75659 7 St. Eugene Mission Resort , 7731 Mission Road , ☏ +1 250-420-2000 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.50448 -115.78598 8 Flamingo Motel , 432 Van Horne St S , ☏ +1 250-426-7073 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.50871 -115.77611 9 Almo Court Motel , 316 2nd Street S , ☏ +1 250-426-3213 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.52234 -115.75744 10 Best Western Cranbrook Hotel , 1019 Cranbrook St N , ☏ +1 250-417-4002 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.51822 -115.76049 11 Days Inn by Wyndham Cranbrook Conference Centre , 600 Cranbrook Street N , ☏ +1 250-426-6683 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.51194 -115.76638 12 The Mount Baker Hotel , 1017 Baker Street N , ☏ +1 250-908-7888 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.51808 -115.73987 13 College of the Rockies , 2700 College Way , ☏ +1 250-489-8282 , toll-free: +1-877-489-2687 x3282 . Provides short term accommodations in student housing from mid-May to mid-August, when school is out for the summer. ( updated Mar 2023 )

Cope [ edit ]

Newspaper [ edit ], hospital [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

Getting out is much the same as getting in. Other interesting places to visit in the area are Kimberley and Fernie .

A paved biking trail has been completed, connecting Cranbrook with Marysville, just south of Kimberley. This is a "rails to trails" conversion, running mostly parallel to the highway through pine forests and fields, about 25 km.

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Cranbrook Tourism: A Bold and Inclusive Master Plan

Since the Canadian Pacific Railway established its line through Cranbrook over a century ago, the community has become the major centre for the East Kootenays, and it now boasts a dynamic tourism sector as well. A new Tourism Master Plan will enable the community to realize the full potential of tourism and guide a sustainable economic future for both residents and visitors.

“Cranbrook has so much, from our colorful history and culture, world-class outdoor recreation, diverse event facilities and a blossoming downtown scene,” says Darren Brewer, Cranbrook’s Economic Development Officer. “Yet until the creation of the new Tourism Master Plan, the potential economic benefits of tourism were never truly assessed or realized.”   

Development of the plan is a partnership between Cranbrook Tourism, the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce, and the Ktunaxa Nation Council, which stewards its more than 27,000 square miles of traditional lands in BC and Alberta. “The idea was to create a shared vision for the future that aligns with the goals of these groups and supports them moving forward,” says Kristy Kajn-Smith, Executive Director of Cranbrook Tourism.

The Economic Trust of Southern Interior (ETSI-BC) supported the plan with a $ 50,000 grant – the maximum amount the Trust provides to a project – through its Building Economic Capacity funding stream. Additional funding was received from Columbia Basin Trust, the Regional District East Kootenay, and the City of Cranbrook.

A Bold Vision Informed by Research and Engagement

The project to develop the tourism plan, which Brewer says provides “a bold and inclusive vision for our city,” began with extensive research to better understand the tourism-related needs of residents, visitors and tourism stakeholders. Information gained through 10 workshops and 500 visitor and resident surveys looked at visitor spending, job creation, revenue generation and tourism’s multiplier effect on other sectors of the economy.

By visiting the City’s data portal , stakeholders and community members are able to access valuable insights and metrics that track the progress and impact of the plan. “The findings provide a crucial baseline for future policy setting and initiatives by tourism stakeholders and other industries,” says Brewer.

As the Tourism Master Plan rolls out over the next few years, Cranbrook will look and feel different.

Culture a Key Focus

The city plans to develop new tourism infrastructure including land development, entertainment venues and cultural attractions. The plan supports reducing the environmental impact of tourism, and at the same time, enhances the digital tourism experience using innovative technologies such as augmented reality, mobile apps, and interactive displays.

A major recommendation is the Ktunaxa Cultural Initiative, aimed at creating a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Ktunaxa culture. The plan outlines investment in green spaces and urban areas that promote cultural experiences and meaningful interactions between locals and tourists.

Linking Tourism and Active Transportation Plans

Another key recommendation is the redevelopment of the History Center Grounds to include a Welcome Centre as a beachhead for tourists entering downtown Cranbrook. The Tourism Master Plan aligns with the work the city completed on its Downtown Revitalization Plan and will provide valuable input into future planning exercises like the Active Transportation plan currently underway.

Enhanced visitor signage will be located at city entry points and a better-connected network of trails will improve the city’s hiking and biking options. The plan also recommends strategic investment in facilities, parks and venues to transform the city’s downtown into an arts and culture hub.

Inclusive Tourism Opportunities and Economic Benefits

“Cranbrook is one of the best kept secrets in the Kootenays,” says Brewer. “The Tourism Master Plan provides the roadmap to development, meaningful First Nation Representation, and overarching inclusivity. Where else can a six-year-old, an 80-year-old and person with a disability enjoy the same tourism assets?”

Laurel Douglas, CEO for ETSI-BC, says “This project doesn’t just help grow the community’s employment and economic benefits, it also promotes conservation and education, and shows how key stakeholders can work collaboratively to take Cranbrook into the future.”

More News & Stories

A game changing approach to tourism marketing in the columbia valley.

The Columbia Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and welcoming communities, thrives on tourism, with key attractions like Radium Hot Springs, Panorama, and Invermere. The Columbia Valley Tourism Marketing Society (CVTMS) was established to unify tourism marketing and manage the Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT), a crucial funding source for local programs and events. With support from the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC), a cohesive marketing strategy was developed, leading to the launch of the Travel Columbia Valley website and enhanced collaboration among businesses. This unified approach has sparked economic growth and new ventures like Radium Brewing, bolstering year-round tourism and regional development.

Beyond the River – Greater Trail’s Builds a New Tourism Sector

An innovative tourism development project with a buy-local component is providing economic benefits in the Greater Trail area of the South Kootenay region. Diverse stakeholders came together to create the “Beyond the River” campaign which promotes the area’s world-class sport fishing opportunities to attract more visitors throughout the year. Supported by the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC), the highly collaborative project is increasing tourism capacity, and provides a foundation to support future projects that will help grow the local economy.

Spring 2024 Funding Intake Closes with 43 Applications Received

April 18, 2024 – The ETSI-BC team is pleased to share that we received 43 applications for the Funding Intake that closed on April 12, 2024. The $1.2 million in funding requests is almost double the funding available, so the Regional Advisory Committees and Board of ETSI-BC will have their work cut out for them.

Data Diggers – a Community of Practice

March 21, 2024 – We invite you to join the Data Diggers Community of Practice! This is a group of practitioners who dig data, dig digging into data, and want to dig themselves out of data into knowledge and insights.

Thompson-Okanagan Team Takes to the World Stage to Address Workforce Shortages

The Thompson-Okanagan region is a well-known Canadian tourist destination, it is not immune to the shortage of skilled workers experienced in many Canadian communities. International recruitment is considered a key tool for addressing worker shortages in the area. With the support of the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC), three major economic development organizations collaborated to market the region at the world’s largest emigration event in Houten, Netherlands in 2023. The initiative has led to an ongoing strategy to attract new talent and help the region grow and thrive.

North Shore Business Improvement Association Validates Return on Investment

Kamloops’ North Shore Business Improvement Association (NSBIA) has grown significantly since its inception, but after almost three decades, it was time to validate its strategic direction and value proposition to members and stakeholders. With the support of the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC), the NSBIA conducted a Membership Engagement and Return on Investment Project in 2022 which confirmed its good work and where the organization goes next.

Celebrating a Successful Research Funding Partnership

It’s been three years since the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC) and Mitacs launched their research funding partnership serving the Southern Interior of BC, and they are excited to share some key outcomes and reflect on future opportunities.

Revitalizing Downtown Hope – Planning for a Resilient Future

Visitors to Hope are discovering that the community is much more than a convenient gas and pit stop off the highway when travelling to and from the Lower Mainland. As a new downtown revitalization strategy rolls out, a more vibrant and engaging downtown area is emerging, drawing both residents and tourist traffic into the area, and creating new economic opportunities. The project was supported with funding from the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC).

Boston Bar & North Bend Make Plans to Revitalize Economy

The pioneering spirit associated with the early history of Boston Bar and North Bend is evident again. The area was once one of the richest gold mining areas in Canada, later supported by forestry. But after a major mill closed in the 1980s, many people moved away and the economy began to decline. With the support of the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC), the community conducted an analysis of its needs, strengths, and opportunities, renewing the promise of a strong and sustainable future.

Fostering Entrepreneurship at Post-Secondary Institutions in 2024

January 24, 2024 – The Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC) has supported the 6 public post-secondary institutions (PSIs) in the Southern Interior of BC since 2008 with funding of over $7.3 million.

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[wpv-taxonomy-archive info="name"], job creation, first nations reconciliation and tourism gems abound in cranbrook, february 26, 2024.

(Left to right) Becky Pelkonen (ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises board chair), Marty Williams (Natanik Lead, ʔaq̓am elder), Craig Campbell (General Manager, ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises), Darren Brewer …

Strong Second & Third Quarters For Development And Construction Values In Cranbrook In 2023

January 29, 2024.

Cranbrook, BC (January 25, 2024) – Just over $38.4 million dollars in total construction value was reported to have occurred in the City of Cranbrook …

Increased Air Service & Restaurant Service Coming to Canadian Rockies International Airport

December 14, 2023.

Thanks to the communities’ continued devotion to flying local from the Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC), an increase in air service is set to start …

Cranbrook Applies for CMHC Grant To Help Contribute to Development of Affordable Housing

September 13, 2023.

Cranbrook, BC (September 11, 2023) – A grant application by the City of Cranbrook to the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) through the Canadian Mortgage and …

Step into the Future of Mobility, We are embarking on an Active Transportation Plan, and your voice matters!

July 11, 2023.

Project BackgroundThe community has identified a desire to improve and further develop the Active Transportation (AT) network within Cranbrook. The City is undertaking an Active …

National Indigenous Peoples Day 2023 -(ʔAKISQAKⱠIʔIT) CRANBROOK 

June 21, 2023.

Today, on National Indigenous People’s Day, we celebrate the rich cultures, contributions, and resilience of Indigenous peoples across Canada. It is also a time to …

Cranbrook Selected for BC Hydro’s Load Attraction Program

May 12, 2023.

Cranbrook, BC (May 16, 2023) — The City of Cranbrook is thrilled to announce that it has partnered with BC Hydro to attract energy-intensive, industrial …

Two Major Capital Projects in Cranbrook to Begin Over Next Couple of Weeks

April 25, 2023.

Cranbrook, BC (April 25, 2023) – Two key projects in the City’s 2023 capital works program – 4th Street North Phase 2 reconstruction and Shadow …

New Outdoor Patio Guide to Help Businesses Create Great Outdoor Spaces This Summer

April 4, 2023.

Cranbrook, BC (April 4th , 2023) – With spring in the air, many of us are ready to leave the last of winter behind us …

Why choose Cranbrook? Don’t take a chance, it’s a choice to help businesses grow and succeed

January 4, 2023.

The City of Cranbrook has made tremendous strides in creating a fertile environment for entrepreneurs Cranbrook has evolved to become a thriving Kootenay hub—and that …

City Well Positioned To Meet Housing Construction Changes Under Proposed Housing Supply Act

December 8, 2022.

Significant changes are on the horizon for municipalities in British Columbia when it comes to housing construction and the City of Cranbrook is well positioned …

#Ktunaxa Homelands earn National Award

October 27, 2022.

ʔa·kisk̓aqǂiʔit / Cranbrook, BC (October 26, 2022) – The City of Cranbrook recently accepted a national award from the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) for …

Our path to Cranbrook 2042

August 4, 2022.

We’re updating Cranbrook’s Official Community Plan! An OCP is about listening and co-creating goals to build a great city – together. With your help, we …

National Indigenous Peoples Day 2022 –  (ʔakisqakⱡiʔit) Cranbrook 

June 21, 2022.

The Ktunaxa people have been in this area since Naⱡmuqȼin fulfilled his prophecy and placed the Ktunaxa people in this area to be the keepers …

City, Local Tourism Partners Launch Public Survey As Part of Tourism Master Plan Creation

June 6, 2022.

Tourism Survey The City of Cranbrook and local tourism leaders have launched a process to develop a Tourism Master Plan. Designed to complement the City’s …

KAST is hosting the Kootenay Investment Challenge

May 26, 2022.

Entrepreneur Info Session – May 31st The Kootenay Association for Science and Technology’s Kootenay Investment Challenge will work with Kootenays-based investors interested in stepping into …

Choose Cranbook wins prestigious award – “The Best of the Best”

March 7, 2022.

The Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) is Canada’s national associationof economic development professionals, representing every province and territory acrossCanada with nearly 1,000 members. The …

Cranbrook Tourism to Operate Visitor Information Centre

February 7, 2022.

Cranbrook Tourism will be operating the Visitor Information Centre and offering visitor services to the public in 2022.At their regular meeting on Monday night, Council …

CONVERGX® The Basecamp of the Kootenays 2021 Videos

January 13, 2022.

The purpose of CONVERGX® Presents The Basecamp of The Kootenays is to layer the CONVERGX® model of bringing various x-sector industries together to create cross-sector collaborations, onto …

Cranbrook joins the BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration Regional Pilot

November 17, 2021.

Cranbrook, BC (November 10, 2021) – More than fifty communities across BC including the City of Cranbrook have signed up to take part in the …

City launches Downtown Revitalization portal

September 21, 2021.

We’re updating our Downtown Plan, which will feed into the development of a Downtown Revitalization Master Plan for #Cranbrook. What is a Master Plan? This …

The Ktunaxa Nation and the City of Cranbrook: A partnership with Indigenous people and a community

September 14, 2021.

The stone archway entrance to Cranbrook has a new entity. Flying alongside the flags of Canada, B.C., USA and the City of Cranbrook is a …

City Awarded $75,000 in Grant Funding for Tourism Master Plan

September 7, 2021.

Cranbrook, BC (September 7, 2021) – The City of Cranbrook is a recipient of $50,000 from the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC) for …

Road tax continues to Pay Off

June 15, 2021.

A Decade in And City of Cranbrook’s One Percent Dedicated Road Tax Continues to Pay OffCranbrook, BC (June 14, 2021) – Major investments into our …

Discover Shippers in the Kootenay Region !

June 9, 2021.

Kootenay businesses needing to ship their products now have a new way to compare available shipping options and connect with other businesses to share shipping …

City Launches Public Data Portal on Choose Cranbrook

May 17, 2021.

Cranbrook, BC (May 17, 2021) – Finding out how many people live in certain neighborhood in Cranbrook or how many people moved to this community …

Council to Update Outdoor Patio Program in Support of Restaurants During Circuit Breaker

March 30, 2021.

Cranbrook, BC (March 30, 2021) — With Monday’s announcement from the Province around the three-week COVID-19 circuit breaker which in part reduces services that restaurants …

#BuyBasin Festival

March 17, 2021.

Basin businesses owners, creators, and experience operators, this is your chance to shine! The upcoming #BuyBasin Festival is looking to feature you in this unique …

Future of Peak Industries Newly Acquired Industrial Land in Cranbrook Looks Bright

March 8, 2021.

                                                                                                            Future of Peak Industries Newly Acquired Industrial Land in Cranbrook Looks BrightCranbrook, BC (March 3, 2021) – Initial subdivision and development plans …

2020 Record-Breaking Year for Cranbrook In Economic Development Growth

February 24, 2021.

Cranbrook, BC (February 23, 2021) – The City of Cranbrook has seen strong numbers around investment, business and job growth and housing development in 2020 …

City Sells Former Tembec Property to Peak Renewables

November 19, 2020.

The sale of the former Tembec industrial lands on Theatre Road in Cranbrook is now official, with Peak Renewables the new owners. The sale of …

Creative Redevelopment Planned for Former Canadian Tire Property

November 13, 2020.

Kanas Corporation, a company known for innovative solutions and a triple bottom line approach, has purchased the building and land at 1100 Victoria Avenue North. …

Small Business Week – Get Your Taste of the #EatLocalYXC Festival

October 22, 2020.

Celebrate and help support local food entrepreneurs during Small Business Week with the first-ever #EatLocalYXC Festival in a series of fun and engaging Facebook Live …

Innovation at Work: Announcing the #LiveLocal #EatLocalYXC Festival

October 5, 2020.

The City of Cranbrook, along with its partners, are excited to announce the first annual #LiveLocal #EatLocalYXC Festival kicking off Oct. 22, 2020. “There is …

Regional Economic Summit in Cranbrook Focuses on Strategies to Strengthen Regional Economy

August 4, 2020.

Understanding the economic climate post COVID-19, and the creation of regional economic development strategies is behind a collaborative strategic planning session held in Cranbrook last …

City Launches New Development Guide to Help Navigate Municipal Applications & Processes

May 22, 2020.

The City of Cranbrook has launched its new development guide – a document that provides a one-stop location for information related to development applications and …

Council Reviews Extension Of 2020 Property Tax Penalty Deadline for Business to October 1st

April 30, 2020.

Commercial properties (light industrial, business, and recreation/non-profit) in Cranbrook will have an extra three months to pay their 2020 property tax to the City without …

Council Endorses Plan to Defer More Than $7.3 Million In Projects In 2020

April 29, 2020.

In an effort to help reduce costs in the municipality during the COVID-19 pandemic, Council endorsed a plan Monday night which defers more than $7.3 …

Council Approves Waiving of Some Monthly Downtown Parking Fees Until End of June

April 28, 2020.

Customers who lease parking spaces downtown Cranbrook will have their monthly fees suspended retroactive from April 1 until June 30, 2020, after a decision of …

Working Hard to Support Our Community During This Pandemic: Statement from Mayor Pratt

April 7, 2020.

his COVID-19 pandemic has forced us all into unprecedented and uncharted situations. I want to assure you that our City staff are doing everything they …

Local Business Support & Stimulus Behind Creation of Joint Economic Resiliency Task Force

March 19, 2020.

The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic will be felt by all businesses in the Cranbrook and Kimberley region and it is important that steps …

Cranbrook Launches ePay Payment Portal for Variety of City-Related Bills and Fees

December 10, 2019.

As part of the City of Cranbrook’s continued commitment to deliver a high standard of customer service, we will now be offering customers with a …

Shallow, Deep Services Installation, Investor Attraction Focus for Former Tembec Land in 2020

December 9, 2019.

Looking ahead to build for the future, is one of the biggest reasons the City of Cranbrook purchased the previous Tembec property in 2018. This …

Work on Former Tembec Land Development to Begin as Engineering Study Tenders Awarded

June 18, 2019.

Three contracts have been awarded and work under way for the engineering of the Tembec Lands Development in Cranbrook. “It is good to see we …

Benefits of Sound Asset Management Principles & Innovative Thinking Are Paying Off

October 19, 2018.

Several City projects are expected to save taxpayers millions of dollars, thanks to innovative thinking, collaborative efforts, due diligence and applying sound asset management principles …

City Buys Former Tembec Lands; Opens Doors to Attracting Industrial Development, Business

August 29, 2018.

The purchase of the former Tembec lands by the City of Cranbrook will bring strategic opportunities to the City’s sustainability. One of the biggest hurdles …

See All News

Known as the base camp of the Kootenays, Cranbrook is the largest urban centre and regional focal point in southeastern B.C. We are a business friendly community offering low taxes, competitive costs, a stable, growing business environment, and access to an educated workforce. We are the hub and economic engine for the Kootenays.

We provide support to help your business establish and grow in Cranbrook. We have access to important market research and business intelligence while working actively to facilitate local connections to help support the establishment of your business in the most dynamic and innovative city in the Kootenays.

In addition, local partners and stakeholders in the region recognize the need to remain competitive against other rural cities in B.C. in order to attract business. Your business can benefit from a number of incentives offered by the regional, provincial and federal organizations to help lower your costs and move your business to Cranbrook.

Cranbrook Newcomers Guide

Basecamp of the kootenay’s.

Newcomers Guide

Essential guide, strategic plan 2024-2027.

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Minister’s statement on April Labour Force Survey results

2024 minimum wage increases confirmed, minister’s and parliamentary secretary’s statement on construction and skilled trades month, expanded mental-health, addictions support coming for south asian community, expanding multi-language support, services for newcomers, construction underway on cowichan sportsplex field house, new legislation recognizes work of first nations post-secondary institutes.

TradeUpBC builds, enhances tradespeoples’ skills

Province reaches major milestone in surrey police transition plan, budget 2024 supports improvements to treatment, recovery services.

Changes aim to help people out of poverty

Province provides updates for fifa world cup 26.

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Airport improvements support services, growth for communities

Province supports new weir to keep cowichan river flowing.

Province strengthens flood defences, protecting people, communities

Improvements coming to highways in the southern interior.

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Work has begun in B.C.’s southern Interior to upgrade 482 kilometres of highways and side roads, renewing driving surfaces for local residents, travellers and the movement of goods.

Approximately 33 kilometres of Highway 97 will be repaved this summer from Tuc el Nuit Road, north of Oliver, northward through the community of Okanagan Falls to White Lake Road, along with area side roads. Peter Bros Construction Ltd. has been awarded an $8.9-million contract to deliver this project. Work is expected to be complete by October 2024.

Other major resurfacing projects taking place in the region over the coming months include:

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In 2024, more than $122 million will be invested to resurface southern Interior highways and local roads, ensuring that drivers continue to have a safe and comfortable driving experience.

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Acknowledgment

The B.C. Public Service acknowledges the territories of First Nations around B.C. and is grateful to carry out our work on these lands. We acknowledge the rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of all Indigenous Peoples - First Nations, Métis, and Inuit - respecting and acknowledging their distinct cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments.

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