Cranbrook

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Cranbrook's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Cranbrook
morning
:

Start your journey with a delightful breakfast at a local café before visiting the Cranbrook History Centre. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the region through engaging exhibits and vintage railway artifacts. Stroll through the beautiful gardens nearby to enjoy the welcoming morning air.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Kimberley Alpine Resort where you can indulge in various outdoor activities, including hiking and mountain biking. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch while surrounded by stunning mountain views. As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely drive through the picturesque landscape.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to the local brewery for a taste of craft beers brewed right in Cranbrook. Relish a delicious dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients. Wrap up your evening with a stroll through downtown Cranbrook, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and unique shops.

day 2
Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Begin your day with an invigorating hike at the nearby St. Mary Lake. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you take in sweeping vistas of the surrounding wilderness. Pack a hearty breakfast to enjoy at your scenic vantage point.

afternoon
:

After your morning hike, venture to the nearby Marysville Falls for a refreshing soak in nature. Enjoy your packed lunch while listening to the soothing sounds of the cascading water. Explore the surrounding trails for a chance to see local wildlife.

evening
:

Head back into town for a relaxing dinner at a family-owned restaurant that showcases regional cuisine. Take some time to discover local art galleries featuring works by talented artists from the area. Conclude your day with a quiet evening walk in Baker Park as the stars begin to twinkle overhead.

day 3
Culture and Community
morning
:

Start your morning with a visit to the Cranbrook Farmers Market, brimming with fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with local artisans and enjoy sampling homemade treats. Grab a coffee from a local vendor to fuel your day.

afternoon
:

Wander through the Canadian Museum of Rail Travel to delve into the history of Canada's railway system. Partake in a guided tour that reveals fascinating tales of the past. Afterward, visit the nearby Cranbrook Art Gallery to explore contemporary art exhibitions.

evening
:

For dinner, check out a local pub that hosts live music events in the evenings. Subscribe to the lively atmosphere while enjoying some comfort food. Conclude your night with a performance at the Key City Theatre to experience the local arts scene.

day 4
Historical Insights
morning
:

Begin your day at the Fort Steele Heritage Town and be transported back in time to the Gold Rush era. Enjoy interactive exhibits and live demonstrations that illustrate the richness of the region's history. Be sure to have a light breakfast before your adventure.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon exploring the many shops and artisan studios that Fort Steele has to offer, each filled with unique handmade products. Grab a delicious lunch at one of the quaint eateries within the heritage site. Enjoy a walk along the Kootenay River, taking in the beautiful scenery.

evening
:

Return to Cranbrook and visit a cozy café for an evening dessert treat, perhaps something local or seasonal. As the day winds down, enjoy some quiet time either reading at your accommodation or reflecting on your day. Consider an early night in preparation for another full day ahead.

day 5
Wildlife Encounters
morning
:

Wake up early to visit the nearby Kootenay National Park for a chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat. Spend the morning exploring the trails while keeping an eye out for deer, elk, and various bird species. Pack a delicious breakfast to enjoy amidst the beauty of nature.

afternoon
:

Continue your exploration of Kootenay National Park with a picnic lunch at one of the scenic lookout points. Engage in activities such as paddleboarding or canoeing on a nearby lake, making the most of the beautiful surroundings. Take in the fresh mountain air as you unwind by the water.

evening
:

Return to Cranbrook for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can share stories about your wildlife encounters. Afterward, take a scenic drive to view the sunset over the mountains, showcasing a stunning array of colors. Relax in the evening with a nightcap at a local bar, reminiscing about the day's adventures.

day 6
Mountain Adventures
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast, preparing for an action-packed adventure at the nearby Fernie ski resort. Whether you’re skiing or snowboarding, enjoy the fresh powder the slopes have to offer. Shred the slopes and bask in the stunning winter landscape.

afternoon
:

After a morning on the mountain, refuel with a leisurely lunch at the base lodge filled with fellow adventurers. Spend the afternoon either continuing on the slopes or warming up in the lodge with a hot chocolate. Take in the views of the mountains and surrounding forest from the cozy ambiance.

evening
:

End your mountain day with a fine dining experience at a resort restaurant, where you can enjoy gourmet cuisine inspired by local flavors. Share your day’s highlights over a shared dessert, creating lasting memories. Spend the evening cozying up to the warmth of a fireplace before calling it a night.

day 7
Relaxation Day
morning
:

Start your day in a leisurely fashion with a nutritious breakfast at a local café, savoring every bite. Schedule a visit to a local spa for rejuvenating treatments that will help you relax and recharge. Take a quiet morning walk in a nearby park to embrace tranquility.

afternoon
:

After a restorative morning, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a scenic spot by the river, soaking in the serene environment. Consider engaging in gentle activities like yoga or meditation to continue your relaxation theme for the day. Explore nearby shops for unique souvenirs at your own pace.

evening
:

Return to the spa for an evening session or enjoy a peaceful dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant focusing on fresh, local ingredients. Take time to reflect on your relaxing day while enjoying a fine glass of wine. Cap off your night with a soothing bath back at your accommodation or simply unwind with a good book.

day 8
Community Events
morning
:

If you're visiting during the summer, start your day at the Cranbrook Summer Festival, bustling with local vendors and entertainment. Enjoy a hearty breakfast from a food truck while exploring handmade crafts and artisan goods. Engage with the local artisans to learn more about their craft.

afternoon
:

Continue enjoying the festival atmosphere in the afternoon, participating in fun activities and live demonstrations that showcase Cranbrook's culture. Relax at one of the festival's food stalls with a fantastic lunch made from local produce. Don’t miss the chance to witness live performances reflecting the area’s musical talent.

evening
:

Wrap up festival day with a wonderful community dinner featuring regional foods and drinks. Stay for the evening's entertainment, which could feature live bands or cultural presentations. End the night under the stars, reflecting on the vibrant sense of community you experienced.

day 9
Scenic Drives
morning
:

Embark on your day with a scenic drive through the Kootenai Country, enjoying breathtaking views of mountains and lakes. Stop at lookout points to capture stunning photographs of the landscapes. Indulge in a light breakfast at one of the charming roadside diners.

afternoon
:

Continue your drive, taking the time to explore various hiking trails that catch your interest along the way. Dine at a café nestled in a picturesque town, sampling regional specialties. Spend some time wandering through artisan shops to acquire unique gifts.

evening
:

Return to Cranbrook for a final dinner at a local farm-to-table restaurant, celebrating your scenic journey. Share stories of the day’s beauty with those you’re traveling with over great food. Wrap up your day with a nightcap or ice cream at a local spot, embracing the relaxing end to your adventure.

Discover Cranbrook

Read more in our Cranbrook 2025 Travel Guide.

Cranbrook Travel Guide