Cranbrook is known as the true crossroads of the Kootenays, as you’ll only ever be a few minutes from experiencing incredible lakes, rivers, and adventure. Plus, it routinely reports the most sunshine hours of any city in BC, so it’s best to plan for a lot of time spent outdoors.
Getting Here
By Land
By Bike
Biking Guide: Cranbrook Tourism
Biking West: From Kimberley
Biking South: From Invermere
By Air
Explore more bird trails in this region
Spring Birding in Cranbrook
Summer Birding in Cranbrook
Fall Birding in Cranbrook
Winter Birding in Cranbrook
Cranbrook is the perfect base camp to discovering the Kootenay experience. Check in with the local outfitters for insider information before setting your compass and heading out into the wild.
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12399 McClure Road, Kimberley, BC, CA, V1A 3K8
The relaxing 2km trail into Wycliffe Buttes is speckled with beautiful wildflowers in the spring – and surrounded by spectacular views of the Rockies and Purcell Mountain Ranges year round. The slight elevation leads to a rocky knoll easily accessible by foot, bike, snowshoe, or horseback.
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2112 Crowsnest Highway, BC, CA, V0B 1N0
Part of the Cranbrook Community Forest, this short 1.5 km scenic climb follows an old double-wide road bed, making it accessible for a variety of users. The route leads to an abandoned fire lookout where sweeping views of the Rockies, Mount Fisher, and The Steeples await.
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3101 Kootenay Highway, BC, CA
Managed by the Cranbrook Community Forest (CCF) Society, this birdwatching hotspot features 3 signed loop trails for hiking and nature exploration. Watch for cinnamon teals, Swainson’s thrushes, Clark’s nutcrackers, and more.
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4620 Van Horne Street South, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 6X9
This large wetland area on the west edge of Cranbrook is the city’s best-known and most-loved birdwatching destination, with both resident and migratory birds making appearances. Walking trails lead you around the lake, with viewpoints, picnic tables and benches throughout.
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5Cranbrook, BC, CA, V0B 1N0
Just north of town, the Wasa Sloughs offer some of the best migratory birding around. In spring, the wetlands burst with migrating waterfowl and shorebirds, with unexpected highlights waiting around every bend.
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63379 9 St S, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 7A5
Nestled just south of the Cranbrook Community Forest, Idlewild Park offers a peaceful escape within the city. The park features a picturesque lake, an osprey nesting platform, and a vibrant wetland teeming with life. An ideal spot for birdwatching, particularly during spring and fall migrations.
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7Saint Eugene Mission, BC, CA, V1C 7E6
Though best known as a resort and golf destination, St. Eugene Mission also offers outstanding opportunities for birdwatching. The riverside paths and grounds near the RV park provide habitat for species like American Dippers, found foraging along the shoreline, and Lewis’s Woodpeckers, an uncommon highlight for keen observers.
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8901 Baker Street, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 1A4
Be prepared for outdoor adventures and birdwatching. Their extensive stock includes binoculars, outdoor clothing, hiking footwear, and more.
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916 9 Avenue South, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 2L8
This cozy bookshop located in downtown Cranbrook is a great place to get birding guide books before heading out on the trail. They also carry a wide selection of local authors, travel books, unique greeting cards, maps, and gift items.
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1011 10 Avenue South, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 2M9
Stock up on outdoor supplies for hiking, camping, watersports, and birdwatching.
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11620 Van Horne Street South, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 6X9
Seasonal, May – September
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With history and culture as impressive as the rising hills and wild spaces surrounding the city, it’s worth taking time to relax and recharge at any one of Cranbrook’s many popular local haunts.
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1324 11 Avenue South, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 2N9
A quaint coffee shop serving up specialty drinks and coffee, baked goods, salad bowls, and more. Browse their growing selection of new books and local art while you’re there.
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14903 Baker Street, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 2L8
Enjoy artisan roasted coffee from this family-run shop established in 1999. Sit inside and observe the roasting process or catch some sun on the sidewalk patio.
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1521 10 Avenue South, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 2M9
A community staple for over 25 years, this shop serves breakfast and lunch options made in-house daily. Don’t forget to try their famous cinnamon buns.
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161225b Cranbrook Street North, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 3S6
Perfect for those looking for an intimate fine dining experience. Mediterranean-style cuisine with a seasonally-focused menu, creative cocktails, and an extensive wine list.
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1713 9 Ave S, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 2L9
Start your morning right at The Baker 89, where hearty, locally-sourced breakfasts, from classic pancakes and eggs to fresh avocado toast are crafted with care to fuel your day.
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1837 11 Avenue South, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 2N9
Located in a 1929 heritage building that was once the city’s fire hall featuring roll-up truck doors, a fire pole and fire bell. Enjoy BC craft beer and quality pub fare on one of their outdoor patios.
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19821 Baker Street, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 1A2
This ever-evolving restaurant has been in the community for decades. Tour the brewery, sample craft beer, and enjoy delicious food made with locally sourced ingredients.
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201924 8 Street North, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 3N3
Whether it’s a relaxing brunch, a quick lunch, or an early evening meal on their sunny patio, Hot Shots focuses on fresh ingredients and creative specials.
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211114 Baker Street, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 1A8
Satisfy your sweet tooth! Choose from 10 rotating flavours of frozen yogurt (with vegan & sugar-free options) and a creative topping bar.
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221017 Baker Street, Cranbrook, BC, CA, V1C 2N9
Located in the historic Mount Baker Hotel, this central downtown restaurant is a great way to start the day with breakfast and specialty coffees, or end the evening with delicious upscale pub dining.
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23Cranbrook
From upscale resorts to historic hotels, to family-run bed and breakfasts and everything in between Cranbrook has somewhere special for you to rest your head.
Explore More
Check out Tourism Cranbrook’s new birding guide!
Learn more about birding hotspots in Cranbrook through the eyes of an expert.
Experiences
Bookable Experiences in Radium and Invermere
Discover British Columbia’s super, natural landscape with expert guides ready to lead you through the province’s great outdoors.
Explore Nearby Itineraries
There’s so much more to see in BC. Explore a nearby Bird Trail.
