• Scout Loves & Scout Tips
• Scout Review
• Kimberley Skiing
• Kimberley For Families

• Kimberley Accommodation
• Resort Activities
• Getting There and Around
• When To Go
• Facts & Figures

Scout Review

Kimberley Alpine Resort is an incredibly under-rated ski destination. 

It has that quaint and homely small town charm that we like to see when visiting Canadian ski resort, and a laid-back friendly atmosphere throughout the resort and the small mining town of Kimberley itself. This is definitely reflected on the slopes - no crowds, long groomed runs to cruise around, and a seemingly non-hurried skier vibe. No competition for fresh tracks in the Glades, and barely any lift lines. Not to mention the countless bluebird days we had to be able to really explore the resort to it's fullest, and enjoy views of the incredible Canadian Rockies. Kimberley doesn't seem to receive the incredible powder days like other resorts in BC, however, the snow is great quality, and you'll be finding little stashes throughout the day.

Kimberley is highly recommended for families, especially those on a budget as the resort is a much more economical option than other resorts in BC. It has all the main facilities needed, but without the crowds and lift  lines, which can be stressful for some parents. Staying on-mountain is a great choice if you wanted life to be a little easier every morning, and the ski-in/ski-out acess is well appreciated. The restaurants and bars can seem a bit repetative after a few days, so jump on the bus into town for a night or two, and a enjoy friendly Canadian mountain town experience. 

Kimberley Skiing

Skiers and snowboarders will enjoy over 1800 acres of terrain at Kimberley, and over 80 named runs - that's a mammoth amount considering the resort has 'North America's Largest Gladed terrain' to explore. The resort is best suited to beginner and intermediate skiers.

The Glades is the most popular spot for powderhounds, and it's definitely worth catching the first chair for some great tree skiing. The Easter Bowl particularly has those steeper runs and perfect fall lines that advanced skiers yearn for. Stick to the front face of the mountain for super fun and cruisy groomed runs, and with a lack of crowds, there will be plenty of space to perfect those turns. All the runs seem to funnel back into two distinct areas (frontside and backside), perfect for families and kids.

For the kids, the Kimberley Kid's Trail is a heap of fun - a great spot for them to explore deeper in the woods, and ski away from their parents. Keep an eye out for the dummies spotted throughout the forest, and make sure you maintain a good tuck if you are game to follow the little ones through the runs. You can't miss the night skiing at Kimberley - running 3 nights a week (Thurs - Sat), you can ski under the stars on the longest lit run in North America!

The resort is only serviced by 3 main lifts, and they can be a little slow at times, however, with no crowds or competition for fresh tracks, there is no real hurry to get to the top. Sit back and relax and enjoy the view of the surrounding Purcell Mountains.

Kimberley is part of the EPIC pass, making it even more value for families in Canada. You can receive up to 7 days of skiing (total) at the Resorts of the Canadian Rockies resorts (including also Fernie and Kicking Horse).

Download the Trail Map

Kimberley For Families

Kimberley is a fantastic choice for families. The terrain is well suited to beginner to intermediate skiers and snowboarders, with a newly enhanced beginners-only area serviced by a magic carpet. The Kids Learning Area is adjacent to ski-in/ski-out accommodation, so parents can keep a watchful eye on their children's progress (whilst enjoying a slope-side hot tub). The rental facilities and snowsports school are also well organised.

The village skating pond is a big hit for the kids, and they will enjoy roasting a few marshmellows over the bonfire. There are limited on-mountain dining and retail options, so most families head into the town of Kimberley, where there is easy access to a larger range of restaurants, bars, and convenience stores.

The on-mountain accommodation is perfect for families, with plenty of condos and townhouses with fully equipped kitchens.

Kimberley Accommodation

If you are after ski-in/ski-out accommodation, Kimberley is a great spot to make home base for your holiday. Choose from a range of lodge rooms, condos, and townhouses, all self-contained and easy access to the slopes. Trickle Creek Lodge is a popular choice, located right at the base of the express chairlift. The only downfall to staying on mountain is that you have limited options in regards to eating out, though town is not far away.

Alternatively, the small mining town of Kimberley offers many hotel, motel, and even hostel options to suit any budget. 

Resort Activities

Kimberley does offer some other activities besides downhill skiing, including cross-country, dog-sledding, snow-shoeing, snow-mobiling, and scenic helicopter flights. Many can be booked directly with the resort upon arrival. Heli-skiing is also available right from the base area.

Getting There and Around

The ski resort itself is located in the East Kootenays region of BC. The easiest option for skiers is to catch an internal flight from Vancouver or Calgary to Cranbrook airport, where the resort is only 20 minutes away by resort transfer. Kimberley is approximately 400km from Calgary, but the drive is quite spectacular through the mountain ranges.

Kimberley town is only a few minutes from the resort (4km), and a community bus travels between the resort and town hourly. Taxi is also an easy option after 9PM.

When To Go

The ski season runs from early December through to mid-April. January is known to be particularly cold in BC.