Cranbrook Community Forest
From forested knolls to small ponds surrounded by grassland, the area is accessible year-round.
Only a few kilometers from downtown Cranbrook, the Community Forest is open year-round for your enjoyment. The trail system provides abundant opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, snowshoeing and simply enjoying nature.
Bears and cougar are occasionally seen in the Community Forest. Avoid encounters by traveling with friends and making noise, and carry bear spray just in case. Dogs are permitted in the park, but please keep them under control at all times.
If you are looking for suggested routes the Cranbrook Community Forest Society has 3 signed loops trails for easy guided exploration. See the Loop Trails here.
Note that several trails in the Big Tree trail area are on private land. Be especially respectful in these areas by staying on established trails.
CLICK HERE FOR TRAIL DESCRIPTIONS
DIRECTIONS:
Access South End: A small parking lot where the gas line crosses the road. Hike or ride north to quickly access several small ponds.
- Drive 2nd St. S. in Cranbrook, going 1 km beyond the Cranbrook Golf Course entrance going east.
- 2nd St. will become Mount Baker Road. Park on the left (north).
Access North End: Eager Hill is a grassland knoll that once was a fire lookout tower. The easy 1.5 km hike is one of Cranbrook's favourite quick walks any time of year. The wide trail to the lookout gains 125 m (410 ft.). The viewpoint has good road access, and the view is always a treat. Eager Hills features views of the Rockies and the valley below.
- Drive: 0 km: Drive Cranbrook Street north and take the overpass turnoff to Highway 3/95 toward Fort Steele (left lane).
- 3.4 km: Just after the 2 lane passing section begins, notice a large rock bluff on the north side of the highway.
- Turn left (north) at a small road at the base of the rock bluff and drive steeply uphill. It's suitable for any car.
- 3.5 km: Park in a large clearing just uphill from the highway.
College of the Rockies Access: The trails begin behind (east) of the college residence buildings. Trails head into the forest and lead to Sylvan Lake (a small shallow pond).
The Cranbrook Community Forest is a non-profit society. It is primarily maintained by passionate volunteers. How can you help? Become a lifetime member! Or make a donation in any amount. Your donation will help us to protect and manage this important forest.
Check out Trailforks to explore your hiking/riding options in and around Cranbrook.
