Kimberley is situated between the Purcell and Rocky Mountains and its location is ideal for myriad all-season adventures.
Laid-back locals get excited about one thing in Kimberley: the amount of things to do here. The city is unique the number sights, events and activities that can be found within town limits - visitors will find a ski resort, three championship golf courses, an extensive multi-use trail system, and many popular festivals and events.
For a truly unique experience, Spirit Trail Adventures focuses on eco-friendly, and holistic/spiritual summer and winter outdoor experiences, including horseback riding excursions on one of owners Charlie and Martina's prized horses, dinner in an igloo or teepee, as well as experienced designed to help inspire a connection between people, the land and the animals.
Other horseback riding opportunities are also available in Kimberley, just check in at the Visitor Centre. And local tour group Merry Marmot offers eco-friendly, guided hiking tours.
Buildings and Architecture
Kimberley is an historical mining town with a distinct European alpine theme that, while a bit worn at the edges, still gives the center of a town a bit of flair. The Platzl, a downtown pedestrian walking area lined with unique shops and restaurants, is home to Canada's largest freestanding Cuckoo Clock. Be sure to also check out the 350-year-old building at the Old Bauernhaus Restaurant, while chowing down on schnitzel.
Culture & History
Visit the Sullivan Mine on board the Kimberley Underground Mining Railway, and experience a taste of the city's heritage with a self-guided tour of the Orpheum Theatre, North Star School House and Miner's Cabin. Centre 64 is Kimberley's art gallery and gift shop, featuring art exhibits, theatre, concerts, workshops and annual craft fair.
Attractions
The Cominco Gardens has more than 25,000 flowers blooming in a tranquil setting. In summer, the Sullivan Mine & Railway Historical Society puts on a number of exhibitions. Just southeast of Kimberley is Fort Steele Heritage Town, a restored 1890s pioneer town with heritage buildings and themed events in the summer months.
Entertainment
Summer in Kimberley means celebrations – Vaudeville shows, plays, festivals, events and more. Some of the most popular entertainment includes Julyfest, Music & Dance Festival, and the Kootenay Dirtbag Film and Photo Fest. During the winter, watch a hockey game with the Kootenay Jr. Dynamiters, the local junior hockey league team.
Natural Sights, Parks & Wildlife
Kimberley is a haven for wildlife viewing, and visitors may even see elk or deer within minutes of leaving the Canadian Rockies International Airport. Moose, wolverines, bears, sheep and abundant birdlife also grace the area. Visit Kimberley Nature Park, Top of the World Provincial Park, Wasa Lake Provincial Park, Wasa Sloughs, or the Kootenay Trout Hatchery for best wildlife watching.
Rest, Relaxation and Water Activities
Immerse yourself in one of the area's popular natural mineral hot springs, or call the local spas for a massage and other soothing treatments to rejuvenate the body and spirit.
The Kimberley area is also a prime fly-fishing spot and its lakes and rivers allow for rafting adventures, as well as canoeing and kayaking. After an active day, soak in a natural mineral hot spring at Lussier Creek or Buhl Creek. Check in at the Visitor Centre or ask the hotel's concierge for tips on how to book an excursion or unwind after a big day out.
The City of Kimberley also offers an indoor Aquatic Centre, Skateboard & Bike Park, Lawn Bowling, Tennis Courts (indoor/outdoor) and many parks with children's play-centres spread throughout the community.
Winter Activities
The Kimberley Alpine Resort is one of BC's most popular family ski and snowboard destinations with 80 runs covering 729ha/1,800ac of skiable terrain. The Kimberley Nordic Club has over 33km/20.5mi of groomed, double-track trails and a 3.3km/2mi lit trail for day and night cross-country skiing. Snowmobilers can ride in Kimberley's surrounding backcountry near Lost Dog Creek or Perry Creek. From ice-skating, curling, dog-sledding, horse-drawn sleigh rides or dinner in an igloo, Kimberley also offers a plethora of winter activities.
Driving Routes
Access mountain biking, hiking, golfing, fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, in Kimberley along three distinct driving routes. Find out more about driving route through Kimberley here: Driving Routes.
For information on all sights, events, activities and attractions, visit the Kimberley Visitor Centre or click on the links below to find out more about local businesses.
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