There’s something undeniably grounding about connecting with the land. The wide-open skies, the whispering trees, and the earth beneath your feet create a sense of peace, especially in the serene landscapes surrounding Cranbrook and Kimberley, British Columbia.
Whether you’re here for the majestic mountains, clear rivers, or expansive forests, this two-day spring itinerary is designed to help you slow down, breathe deeply, and feel the land’s ancient wisdom. From peaceful hikes to starlit walks by the river, every moment will bring you closer to nature. With the local Ktunaxa owned St. Eugene KOA Campground, situated on the St. Mary’s Rover and conveniently located between Cranbrook and Kimberley, it is the perfect location for the outdoor enthusiast. The KOA offers sites to bring your own tent or camper, while also offering mini cabins and luxury trailer rentals.
Day 1: A Day of Nature and Culture in Kimberley
Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at Deer Park Diner, a local favorite in Kimberley known for its trendy breakfasts inspired by countries around the globe. Fuel up with their English Breakfast, Shakshuka or Huevos Rancheros, before your day of exploration.
After breakfast, take a leisurely walk to the stunning Marysville Falls & Eco Park. The short, scenic trail winds through lush forest and leads to a breathtaking 30-meter waterfall. The sound of rushing water and the cool breeze remind you of the power of nature, setting the tone for your day.
Next, head to Stoke Market to pick up fresh ingredients for a picnic lunch. Grab a mix of locally sourced items, like artisanal bread, cheese, and perhaps some fruit. Consider grabbing some locally made smokies for later on around the campfire. Then make your way to Kimberley Nature Park. With miles of trails, towering pines, and expansive views, this park is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic under the shade of the trees, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
After a relaxing afternoon in the park, return to your campsite at the St. Eugene KOA for a special experience. The ⱡkamnin̓tik Children’s Truth and Reconciliation Society offers traditional plant walks*, where you can learn about the deep cultural connections between Indigenous peoples and the land. Discover the healing properties and history of local plants as shared by a knowledgeable Ktunaxa guide.
For dinner, grill up locally made smokies from Stoke Market, right at your KOA campsite. As the evening air cools, indulge in a soothing experience by booking a portable sauna from Kamu Sauna, which can be set up at your site. This wood-fired, mobile sauna brings you closer to nature by allowing you to relax, detoxify, and meditate on the healing properties of heat. The sauna experience is an ideal way to connect with your body and reflect on the day’s adventures.
*Traditional plant walks are a customized tour by the Society and require booking ahead to ensure tour guide availability
Day 2: A Day of Outdoor Adventure In Cranbrook
Begin your day in Cranbrook with a classic start, grab a seat at Baker 89 and order a hearty traditional breakfast. Hot coffee, crisp bacon, and eggs just the way you like them, perfect for energizing your morning.
Head over to Elizabeth Lake for a morning of peaceful bird watching. Known for its wetlands and vibrant bird population, Elizabeth Lake offers a tranquil experience where you can spot everything from red-winged blackbirds to sandhill cranes. Listen to the birds’ songs as you take in the serene surroundings.
For lunch, grab a rice or noodle bowl from Hot Shots Café and an iced tea to go. Venture to Eager Hill, part of the Cranbrook Community Forest, where you can enjoy your meal at one of the picnic tables with a panoramic view of the city and surrounding mountains. After lunch, hike along the trails of the forest, such as the R2DTour or Chewbacca Rocka, both offering a blend of forest, grasslands, and expansive views.
After your adventure, head to Rick’s Fine Meats in Cranbrook to pick up a seasoned steak and a pre-wrapped potato, perfect for grilling over the fire back at your KOA. The combination of tender steak, hearty potatoes, and the crisp spring air is the ideal way to wrap up a day filled with outdoor adventure.
End the night with stargazing. Take a peaceful evening stroll by the St. Mary’s River, listening to the water as the stars light up the night sky. It’s a tranquil and grounding way to end your first day. The clear spring skies in this region offer incredible views of the stars. Reflect on your connection with the land over the past two days, considering the Ktunaxa people’s enduring relationship with these lands and how their teachings emphasize balance, respect, and harmony with nature.
After two days of walking along forest trails, breathing in the fresh spring air, and reconnecting with the land, you’ll leave Cranbrook and Kimberley feeling both rejuvenated and grounded. These small mountain towns offer a perfect blend of nature and culture, inviting you to slow down and appreciate the world around you. Whether it's the wisdom found in Indigenous plant knowledge or the simple pleasure of a starry night by the river, this is a place where you can truly connect with the earth.
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