Parks
Park in BC (JF Bergeron photo)
A total of four provincial parks are located within a half hour drive of Cranbrook.
They have at least two things in common – they are all named after the lake by which they are situated, and they all accommodate campers.
Jimsmith Lake
A popular spot with locals, Jimsmith Lake Provincial Park is just 5km/3mi from town. The activity menu at this 14ha/34ac park includes picnicking, swimming, sunbathing and non-motorized boating. There are also 28 vehicle campsites. In winter, the lake freezes to become a large skating rink.
Wasa Lake
The larger 144ha/356ac Wasa Lake Provincial Park is 40km/25mi north of Cranbrook. One of the warmest in the area, the lake is great for swimming, windsurfing and waterskiing – powerboats are permitted here. Shared by hikers and cyclists, the 8km/5mi "Wasa Lions Way" is a paved path around the lake. A total of 104 vehicle-accessible campsites complete this family-friendly destination.
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Moyie Lake
Located 15 minutes south of Cranbrook, Moyie Lake Provincial Park also offers a selection of sun and sand activities. The lake, however, is a little deeper and not quite so warm. Hot showers are available in the campground. Land-based activities include two nature trails and an adventure playground. Moyie Lake has 111 vehicle-accessible campsites.
Norbury Lake
In Wardner, near the Kootenay Trout Hatchery, Norbury Lake Provincial Park features day-use picnic and beach areas, walking trails and a total of 46 campsites. Powerboats are not permitted in this 97ha/240ac park.
City Parks
A former city reservoir, Idlewild Park has an amphitheatre that is the venue for a small summer music festival in late August. There is a fitness trail and small lake in the middle of the park; kids love to fish from the pier.
Elizabeth Lake is a 6ha/15ac bird sanctuary located east of Highway 95 at the southern gateway to Cranbrook. Three loop trails provide access to diverse wildlife habitat within the park.
For more information on parks, drop by the Cranbrook Visitor Centre.
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