Lance Smith

For travelers departing from ʔakisqakⱡiʔit / Cranbrook, the Canadian Rockies International Airport now offers a meaningful connection to the land’s rich cultural heritage. The newly unveiled Ktunaxa Cultural Installation, created with the Ktunaxa Nation and the City of Cranbrook, invites visitors to explore the Ktunaxa homelands and creation story in an engaging and interactive way.

Honoring Ktunaxa Heritage Through Art and Storytelling

More than just a beautiful piece of art, this installation is an immersive experience. Featuring images of Ktunaxa landscapes and ten animals from the Ktunaxa creation story, it provides travelers with a unique way to engage with the land. A map of the Ktunaxa homelands and a QR code offering an audio recording deepen the connection to the region’s history.

The installation encourages a closer look—some animals are easy to spot, while others provide a fun challenge, adding an element of discovery for all ages.

A Space for Reflection and Connection

The departure lounge provides travelers with a uniquely enriching experience that highlights both the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Free from the usual distractions like televisions and digital advertising, the lounge encourages visitors to engage with their surroundings—admiring the newly installed Ktunaxa Cultural Installation and taking in the sweeping view of Fisher Peak. Here, passengers find a place to unwind, appreciating the rugged grandeur of the Rockies as they prepare for their journey. As travelers board the aircraft, the crisp mountain air offers a final, memorable connection to the Kootenay landscape, leaving a lasting impression long after departure.

Supporting Cranbrook’s Tourism Vision

This installation aligns with Cranbrook’s Tourism Master Plan goals to:

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  Invest in Arrivals and Gateways
  
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  Support a Ktunaxa Cultural Initiative
  
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  Share Cranbrook’s Stories through Interpretive Signage
  

It also complements the Ktunaxa Homelands campaign by Cranbrook Tourism, developed with Tourism Fernie and Tourism Kimberley, which highlights the Ktunaxa perspective of the Kootenay region. As Janice Alpine from Ktunaxa Tourism Engagement shares, “As we reclaimed our stories of the land, we can now share them with our neighbors and visitors.”

An Inviting Gateway to the Kootenays

Welcoming over 150,000 passengers annually, the Ktunaxa Cultural Installation serves as a memorable impression of ʔakisqakⱡiʔit / Cranbrook. This unique installation offers travelers a chance to connect with the Ktunaxa Homelands culture and the beauty of the land. Find out more Ktunaxa Homelands – Choose Cranbrook

Cranbrook is not just a basecamp to stunning natural landscapes; it’s a thriving economic hub that offers a wealth of opportunities for businesses of all sizes. The city’s economy is anchored in natural resource extraction, fueled by a growing tourism sector, and energized by its role as a vibrant commercial and retail center. As the main regional service hub in southeastern BC, Cranbrook provides an ideal business environment for growth and innovation.

Natural Resource Extraction: A Strong Economic Foundation

Cranbrook’s rich natural resources have long supported its economy. Forestry remains a key industry, with companies committed to sustainable practices, ensuring a steady flow of jobs and opportunities. Mining is also a major player, with operations in nearby areas contributing significantly to local employment and secondary industries that provide goods and services to support these ventures. Cranbrook’s proximity to abundant natural resources ensures this sector remains a strong pillar of the local economy.

Tourism: Tapping into Natural Beauty

With breathtaking mountain views and year-round outdoor activities, Cranbrook is a magnet for tourists. Its title as the sunniest city in British Columbia adds to the draw, with recreational opportunities like skiing at Kimberley Alpine Resort, hiking, and fishing attracting visitors throughout the seasons.

As part of the broader Rockies region, which is recognized as a globally aspired travel destination, Cranbrook’s location along the scenic Highway 3 corridor connects it to world-renowned attractions. The city benefits from its inclusion in regional tourism strategies that emphasize sustainable travel and adventure opportunities throughout the Canadian Rockies, enhancing its appeal to both domestic and international visitors.

Cranbrook is easily accessible thanks to the Canadian Rockies International Airport, which offers direct flights to major cities, making it convenient for travelers from around the world. In addition to its outdoor attractions, Cranbrook’s growing tourism sector is boosted by local events like the Spirit of the Rockies Festival, Edfest, and Rock the Kootenays, which bring both residents and visitors together to celebrate the region’s culture, arts, and music. These events, along with the city’s natural beauty, support a thriving hospitality industry, helping local restaurants, hotels, and shops to flourish

Commercial and Retail: The Economic Heartbeat

Cranbrook is the established retail hub for the Kootenays, offering businesses a strategic location with a thriving consumer base. As the largest urban center in the region, it draws customers from surrounding communities, creating a robust market for retail, services, and hospitality sectors. Cranbrook is a prime location for entrepreneurs and franchisees looking to grow their ventures. Its vibrant economy and welcoming community make it an ideal destination for investment and long-term business success.

Regional Service Hub: Supporting Southeastern BC

As the largest city in southeastern BC, Cranbrook plays a pivotal role as the region’s service center. It is home to the East Kootenay Regional Hospital, the leading healthcare provider for surrounding communities, and the College of the Rockies, which provides critical workforce development through specialized training programs. Cranbrook’s central role in education and healthcare not only serves residents but also attracts professionals to the area, creating a stable foundation for sustained growth.

Cranbrook’s diverse economy makes it an attractive destination for businesses and entrepreneurs. With strong infrastructure, a prime location, and a welcoming business climate, it offers the perfect balance of opportunity and quality of life. Whether you’re involved in resource extraction, tourism, or looking to invest in the commercial sector, Cranbrook’s dynamic economy provides the tools for long-term success.

Cranbrook’s strategic location and infrastructure make it a key gateway for businesses seeking access to global and North American markets. With convenient access to the U.S. and Alberta, combined with essential infrastructure like the Canadian Rockies International Airport (CRIA), Cranbrook offers businesses the perfect location for growth and trade.

Canadian Rockies International Airport (CRIA): A Gateway for Trade and Travel

The Canadian Rockies International Airport (CRIA) welcomes over 150,000 passengers annually, surpassing pre-COVID levels and cementing its position as one of Canada’s fastest-growing and best-managed airports. With expanded service from national carriers, CRIA has rebounded strongly, offering more connectivity and convenience for travelers and businesses alike. Its consistent growth underscores its vital role in the region, providing a critical gateway to the Kootenays and beyond, while supporting Cranbrook’s broader economic development efforts.

Proximity to Alberta and the United States: Cross-Border Commerce

Cranbrook’s location near Alberta and the U.S. states of Idaho, Montana, and Washington makes it a prime destination for cross-border trade. Businesses benefit from easy access to these key markets, reducing transportation costs and improving logistics. The close proximity allows companies in Cranbrook to quickly access North American markets, making the city an ideal hub for export-driven businesses. (Government of BC)

Connectivity to Major Ports: Direct Access to Global Markets

Cranbrook’s location, just an 8-hour drive from major shipping ports such as Tacoma and Seattle, provides businesses with direct access to global markets, making international exports more efficient. Proximity to the I-90 corridor, which connects the Pacific Northwest to the Great Lakes region, offers a significant logistical advantage for businesses engaged in manufacturing and trade. This strategic access to key transportation routes allows companies in Cranbrook to streamline supply chains and capitalize on broader North American and international markets.

Land and Electricity

The City of Cranbrook, in partnership with the ʔaq̓am community enterprises (ACE) , is actively developing over 100 acres of land adjacent to the CRIA, which complements ACE’s proposed 215-acre utility-grade renewable energy project . This collaborative effort aims to create a vibrant business hub that harnesses the region’s abundant natural resources while promoting sustainable growth. Cranbrook’s proactive development policies and supportive business environment further enhance its appeal, making it an ideal destination for investors looking to seize new opportunities in a dynamic and emerging market. Together, these initiatives position Cranbrook as a leader in innovative economic development and renewable energy solutions.

Government Support and Incentives

In addition to its logistical advantages, Cranbrook benefits from economic development programs and incentives offered by local governments. These initiatives are designed to attract new businesses and encourage investment in key sectors like trade, manufacturing, and logistics, creating a business-friendly environment that helps companies expand and thrive in the region.

With infrastructure like CRIA, its proximity to key U.S. and Canadian markets, and direct access to global shipping routes, Cranbrook offers unparalleled advantages for businesses looking to grow and expand. Whether you’re seeking opportunities for cross-border commerce or leveraging global trade routes, Cranbrook’s strategic access provides the foundation for long-term success. (Destination BC)

Cranbrook offers two key public data portals, each serving a unique purpose in supporting community planning and economic development. These portals are essential tools for residents, business owners, potential investors, and policymakers who seek to understand and contribute to the city’s growth.

Choose Cranbrook Economic Development Data Portal (data.choosecranbrook.ca)

The Choose Cranbrook Economic Development Data Portal  is an invaluable resource for those involved in strategic planning and economic development in Cranbrook. This platform provides comprehensive data that informs decision-making and drives the city’s economic growth.

Key Features of the Choose Cranbrook Economic Development Data Portal:

• Economic Development Dashboard: Offers real-time data on key economic indicators, providing critical insights into the economic health of Cranbrook.
• Building Permits in Real-Time: Tracks development activity with up-to-date information on building permits.
• Transportation/Location Analysis: Facilitates analysis of transportation networks and location advantages, crucial for business and infrastructure planning.
• Tourism Insights: Delivers data on tourism trends, aiding in the support and attraction of tourism-related businesses.
• Resources – Reports and Documents: Provides access to a comprehensive library of reports and documents relevant to economic development, assisting businesses and policymakers in making informed decisions.

This portal is essential for fostering economic growth in Cranbrook, enabling data-driven strategies, attracting new business initiatives, and supporting existing businesses with detailed, actionable insights.

Cranbrook Open Data Portal

The Cranbrook Open Data Portal  complements the economic development focus by offering access to spatial and planning-related data, essential for operational and technical decision-making.

Key Features of the Cranbrook Open Data Portal:

• Explore Spatial Data: Access a range of spatial datasets for in-depth analysis.
• Infrastructure: View data on the city’s infrastructure to support planning and development projects.
• Terrain and Imagery: Utilize detailed terrain and imagery data for various applications.
• City Services: Find information on city services available to residents and businesses.
• Cranbrook City Viewer: Explore the city through an interactive map with multiple layers of data.
• Parcel Identification Numbers (PID’s): Access zoning and parcel information to assist in planning and development decisions.

These portals exemplify Cranbrook’s commitment to openness and active community involvement in development processes, ensuring stakeholders have the tools needed to engage with and contribute to the city’s growth effectively.

For more detailed information and to explore the data available, visit the Choose Cranbrook Economic Development Data Portal at data.choosecranbrook.ca.

Cranbrook, BC, a gem nestled in the heart of the Rockies, offers more than just breathtaking landscapes—it presents a lifestyle that’s both enriching and surprisingly affordable. For those yearning for the quintessential mountain living without the hefty price tag, Cranbrook might just be your next destination.

Affordable Living in Nature’s Backyard

Imagine residing where the cost of a home leaves you with enough to enjoy life’s pleasures. Cranbrook is making this a reality through its commitment to affordable housing. 

According to the 2024 BC Property Assessments, compared to other BC markets, a typical single-family home in Cranbrook costs around $468,000, which is much more affordable than nearby Fernie at $848,000, Kelowna at around $953,000, Victoria at approximately $1.1 million, and significantly less than Vancouver, where prices often exceed $2.2 million. This positions Cranbrook as a highly attractive option for those seeking both value and beauty in their living environment. (2024 BC Assessment) (2024 BC Assessment) (2024 BC Assessment)  

The city has also recently seen the development of numerous housing units designed to be budget-friendly for families and seniors, reflecting a community-focused approach to growth.​ (BC Gov News)​​ (BC Gov News)​

These efforts ensure that residents can enjoy both comfort and affordability. Whether it’s a cozy apartment or a spacious suburban home, Cranbrook’s real estate market offers diverse housing options at prices that won’t break the bank.

Thriving Community and Economic Opportunities

Cranbrook isn’t just about living affordably; it’s about living well. The city is bustling with initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and sustainability. With provincial support, local projects are enhancing community services, boosting the local economy, and creating a nurturing environment for both new and established businesses​ (East Kootenay News Online Weekly)​.

This proactive community development helps keep living costs low while enriching residents’ lives. Entrepreneurs find a welcoming business climate here, where lower operational costs drive greater profitability and sustainability.

Outdoor Adventures Without the Expense

In Cranbrook, the great outdoors is your playground. Situated in a region famed for its majestic settings, the city offers endless opportunities for adventure—from hiking trails that weave through expansive forests to serene lakes perfect for fishing. The best part? Engaging in these healthy, fun activities comes with minimal expense.

Living here means your backyard adventures require little more than stepping outside. This accessibility to nature, combined with Cranbrook’s community amenities, crafts a lifestyle that celebrates both adventure and relaxation.

Cranbrook encapsulates the ideal blend of affordability, community, and natural beauty, making it a top choice for those looking to enhance their quality of life without stretching their finances. Explore what it means to live the Rocky Mountain dream—affordably, joyfully, and sustainably.

In Cranbrook, the sun doesn’t just visit; it practically lives here. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Cranbrook proudly holds the title of BC’s sunniest city. This abundant sunshine not only bathes the city in a warm glow but also warmly invites newcomers and tourists alike to bask in its endless opportunities.

Living Under Cranbrook’s Clear Skies

Imagine waking up nearly every day to clear, sunny skies. That’s the daily reality in Cranbrook, where the generous sun enhances a lifestyle that many can only dream of. The city’s exceptional weather is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, families seeking a vibrant community, and businesses looking to thrive in a dynamic environment.

Whether it’s hiking through the expansive, sunlit trails or enjoying a leisurely afternoon at one of the local parks, the weather here supports an active, healthy lifestyle all year round.

Economic Growth Fueled by Sunshine

It’s not just the natural beauty that shines bright; Cranbrook’s economic landscape is equally radiant. The sunshine supports a flourishing tourism sector, with visitors drawn to the area’s natural splendor and extensive outdoor activities. Local businesses thrive with the influx of tourists and the high quality of life, making Cranbrook a hotspot for entrepreneurial ventures and economic opportunities.

A Hub for Solar Energy Innovation

Cranbrook’s microclimate isn’t just good for the soul; it’s powerful for the grid too. The city is becoming a hub for solar energy projects, tapping into its most abundant natural resource to power homes and businesses sustainably. This initiative not only highlights Cranbrook’s commitment to green energy but also positions the city as a leader in ecological innovation, harnessing each day’s sun for a brighter future.

Come for the Climate, Stay for the Community

What makes Cranbrook truly special is how its sunny disposition translates into a warm community spirit. The city’s weather fosters a welcoming, vibrant community where each sunny day brings new opportunities to connect and grow.

Interested in making Cranbrook your new home or just planning a visit? Check out the Newcomers Guide for everything you need to know about living, working, and playing in BC’s sunniest city. Here in Cranbrook, the future looks bright, and we can confidently say the weather agrees!

This summer, Cranbrook introduces an exciting new way to navigate its vibrant streets and scenic paths: the Bird e-scooter pilot program. Launched in partnership with Bird Canada, this initiative is not just about enhancing urban mobility but also about offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly transportation alternative that aligns with Cranbrook’s forward-thinking approach to urban planning.

Enhancing Commuter and Tourist Experiences

The e-scooter program caters to both locals commuting daily and tourists seeking leisurely explorations. With these scooters, everyone can enjoy the ease of zipping through the city, visiting local shops, parks, and attractions without the hassle of car parking or the constraints of public transit schedules. It’s a fun, fast, and flexible way to experience Cranbrook, whether you’re rushing to a meeting or cruising by the stunning local landscapes that define this beautiful region.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

A key feature of the e-scooter program is its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Unlike the hefty upfront costs associated with purchasing personal electric bikes or scooters, the Bird e-scooter rental system allows users to pay per ride. This pay-as-you-go approach makes sustainable transportation accessible to a broader demographic, ensuring that more people can participate in Cranbrook’s active, outdoor lifestyle. It democratizes access to mobility solutions, fostering a more inclusive community environment.

Embracing a Sunny Disposition

Cranbrook’s status as the sunniest city in BC naturally complements outdoor activities like e-scooting. The favorable weather invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy extended daylight hours exploring all that the city has to offer, comfortably and sustainably. This microclimate not only enhances the e-scooting experience but also contributes to the city’s reputation as a prime destination for those seeking an active and eco-friendly lifestyle.

For more details on the program and to make the most out of your e-scooter experience in Cranbrook, check out the Newcomers Guide. This guide provides additional insights into navigating the city efficiently and is an essential resource for both residents and visitors looking to explore Cranbrook in an environmentally conscious manner.