Your Guide to Kimberley, BC
A Laid-Back Mountain Town with Bavarian Charm
Welcome to Kimberley!
Tucked into the Purcell Mountains, Kimberley, BC blends alpine adventure with small-town warmth and a touch of European flair. Known as the Bavarian City of the Rockies, this friendly community is packed with character; the walkable downtown Platzl, mountain trails, lively festivals and artisanal dining make this a beloved year-round destination. Below is your insider’s guide to all the best that Kimberley has to offer, including local attractions, outdoor recreation, dining, and experiences.
The Area
Set at 1,100 metres above sea level, Kimberley enjoys sunny skies, crisp mountain air, and stunning views of the Purcell and Rocky Mountain ranges. The town is built around the charming Platzl, a pedestrian-only square lined with cafés, boutiques, and restaurants that give the community its signature European village feel.
Kimberley’s location makes it an ideal place for year-round adventure. The town sits just five minutes from Kimberley Alpine Resort, offering easy access to skiing and mountain biking, while the Kimberley Nature Park and Rails to Trails network connect directly from town for hiking, running, and cycling. The St. Mary River and surrounding lakes are only a short drive away, perfect for fishing, rafting, and paddleboarding in the summer months
The Attractions
Kimberley is a town that knows how to celebrate every season. The JulyFest brings live music, bocce tournaments, and cycling races each summer, while First Saturdays turn downtown into a showcase of local art, food, and entertainment. In winter, the Winter Alpine Festival transforms the Platzl into a snowy wonderland of lights, markets, and mulled wine.
Kimberley shines year-round, offering something for every pace of life:
In the summer you can spend your time enjoying:
- Hiking & Nature Walks in Kimberley Nature Park
- Fishing on the St. Mary River
- Mountain Biking at Bootleg Mountain
- Scenic Chairlift Rides at Kimberley Alpine Resort
- Golfing at Trickle Creek Golf Resort
- Local Festivals & Farmers’ Markets
- Exploring Cominco Gardens and Marysville Falls
In the winter you can spend your time enjoying:
The Amenities
Kimberley offers the perfect mix of mountain convenience and small-town comfort.
You’ll find:
- Grocery & Essentials: Save-On-Foods, Mark Creek Market, Pharmasave, and BC Liquor Store
- Farmers’ Market: Open June through September in the Platzl, featuring local produce, baking, and handmade goods
- Shops & Services: Outdoor gear from Purcell Outdoors, local art galleries, home boutiques, and wellness studios
- Dining & Nightlife: From authentic Bavarian fare to craft beer and gourmet dining (see below)
- Health & Wellness: Yoga studios, chiropractors, fitness centres, and the Kimberley Medical Clinic
- Community Facilities: Aquatic Centre, Civic Centre Arena, library, schools, and sports fields
- Accessibility:
Highway 95A provides quick access to Cranbrook, while Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) is only 20 minutes away
Getting Around
Getting around Kimberley is simple, the town was built for walkers, cyclists, and relaxed exploration.
- Driving: Highway 95A links Kimberley to Cranbrook, Invermere, and beyond. Free parking is available throughout the Platzl and at major attractions.
- Walking & Cycling: The North Star Rails to Trails paved route connects Kimberley to Cranbrook and is popular with cyclists and e-bikers. Within town, most destinations are within a 10-minute walk.
- Public Transit: BC Transit Kimberley–Cranbrook Route runs several times daily.
- Taxis & Shuttles: Local taxis and resort shuttles operate year-round, with airport transfers available on request.
- Air Access:
Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) provides direct flights to Calgary and Vancouver, making Kimberley one of the most accessible mountain towns in BC.
Things To Do In And Around Golden | Seasonal Highlight
Summer Activities
Kimberley Nature Park: Hiking
Just 20 minutes east of Golden, Yoho National Park offers some of the most breathtaking hiking in the Canadian Rockies. Trails range from family-friendly walks around Emerald Lake to challenging alpine treks like the Iceline Trail, which rewards hikers with sweeping glacier views and turquoise valleys. Whether you’re exploring waterfalls, fossil beds, or wildflower meadows, Yoho delivers unforgettable mountain scenery in every direction.
Bootleg Mountain: Mountain Biking
This purpose-built downhill network just south of town has earned Kimberley a spot on BC’s mountain biking map. Bootleg Mountain features flow trails, technical lines, and spectacular vistas, designed for riders who love a fast, playful ride.
Winter Activities
Kimberley Alpine Resort: Skiing/Snowboarding
Known for its laid-back vibe, reliable snow, and family-friendly terrain, Kimberley Alpine Resort features more than 80 runs across 1,800 acres. It’s perfect for all skill levels, with night skiing and lively après-ski at the Stemwinder Bar.
Kimberley Alpine Resort: Night Skiing
Night skiing and riding is a unique and magical experience you can’t just have anywhere. Holiday Night Skiing runs Dec 26 – Jan 4th and will then continue every Thursday, Friday and Saturday through March 8th from 5:30-8:30pm.
Kimberley’s Restaurant Guide
Kimberley’s culinary scene brings together local flavour, comfort, and creativity, perfect after a day on the mountain.
The Shed
A local gathering spot that perfectly captures Kimberley’s laid-back mountain vibe, The Shed serves up wood-fired pizzas, creative share plates, and craft cocktails in a rustic yet modern space. With live music nights, an open patio, and a rotating tap list featuring BC breweries, it’s the kind of place where locals and visitors come together after a day on the slopes or trails.
Pedal & Tap
Fun, casual, and full of personality, Pedal & Tap is one of Kimberley’s most beloved eateries. Known for its witty menu (try the “When Pigs Fly” sandwich or the famous Nacho Libre), this bike-themed restaurant offers hearty comfort food, local beers, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a must-stop after any Kimberley adventure, especially if you like good food with a side of humour.
Kimberley Parks, Trails & Green Spaces
With wild beauty surrounding every corner, Kimberley is paradise for outdoor lovers.
Kimberley Nature Park
One of Canada’s largest municipal parks, offering over 50 km of hiking, biking, and snowshoeing trails right from town.
Cominco Gardens
A spectacular display of flowers and landscaping, open to the public from late spring to early fall.
























