Understand

The East Kootenay valley, often compared to the West Kootenays, is wider, drier, and experiences greater temperature extremes. It is only a short drive from Calgary and other points in southern Alberta, making it a popular destination for property owners and visitors. People come here during the summer for boating, fishing, and golf, and in the winter for skiing. The Kootenay River enters the valley from the Rockies at Canal Flats, about 30 minutes north of Cranbrook, and flows south. On the other hand, the Columbia River begins its journey north from Columbia Lake, which is the source of its headwaters. In the early 1900s, there was a plan to connect the Columbia and Kootenay Rivers at Canal Flats, giving the community its name. Thankfully, that project did not succeed, although traces of the attempted canal can still be seen today.

Get in

The picturesque valley can be best accessed by private vehicles, providing the most common and convenient way to explore this captivating area. While public transportation options are scarce, tour buses are plentiful, offering visitors a hassle-free journey to renowned destinations such as Radium Hot Springs. For those seeking air travel, Cranbrook boasts an airport with limited scheduled airline connections, primarily through Jazz Air and Pacific Coastal. Additionally, smaller communities in the valley have landing strips catering to private airplanes. To the north, Golden serves as the gateway to the valley from the Trans Canada Highway Rte 1, while the eastern entry point leads through the enchanting Kootenay National Park to Radium Hot Springs. From the south, adventurers can embark on their valley exploration by entering from southern Alberta via Rte 3 through Fernie. Highway 3 is the sole east/west route in the southern region, connecting this valley to the magnificent West Kootenays, starting at Creston, just an hour west of Cranbrook.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Poutine is a Canadian comfort food consisting of French fries topped with cheese curds and a generous amount of gravy. This dish originates from the province of Quebec but is now widely enjoyed across Canada. It's typically a non-spicy, warm, and filling meal.

Smoked salmon is a popular food item in Canada, particularly in British Columbia where the Pacific salmon is abundant. The salmon is cured with salt and sugar, then cold-smoked over wood chips to enhance its flavor. It's often served as an appetizer, accompanied by cream cheese, bagels, or crackers. The dish offers a mixture of savory and slightly smoky taste, making it a refreshing choice.

Butter tarts are a sweet and flaky dessert native to Canada, particularly popular in the prairie provinces. A butter tart consists of a pastry shell filled with a mixture of butter, sugar, and syrup, often with added raisins or pecans. These bite-sized treats offer a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making them a beloved Canadian treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing