The Kootenay Rockies Gran Fondo is a non-profit event organized by the Cranbrook Sunrise Rotary Club, created to bring cyclists to the region, highlight world-class riding, and raise funds for local charitable initiatives. The ride starts and finishes at the St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino and includes a full event atmosphere with check-in, rider supports, and post-ride celebrations.
Date and Location
The event takes place on Saturday, September 12, 2026, starting and finishing at St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino (7777 Mission Road, Cranbrook).
Route Options
Gran Fondo (152 km)
A longer, more challenging route that uses the paved North Star Rails to Trails to reach Kimberley, then continues through farmland and forest along Highway 95 and the Wardner Fort Steele Road for additional distance and climbs, before returning to Mission Road and the finish at St. Eugene.
Medio Fondo (102 km)
Follows the same core route as the Gran Fondo, including the North Star Rails to Trails and Kimberley, but skips the Wardner Fort Steele out-and-back for a shorter, still scenic and rewarding ride.
Piccolo Fondo (58 km)
A family-friendly out-and-back using the North Star Rails to Trails to reach Kimberley’s Platzl and return the same way. This option welcomes e-bikes and riders looking for a more approachable distance while still being part of event day.
What Every Rider Receives
Participants receive a fully supported ride experience that includes a continental breakfast, mobile mechanical support, five nutritional aid and medical stations, roving medics, secure bike parking, complimentary baggage check, a bike wash after the ride, and a post-ride meal for refuelling and socializing. Riders also receive a Dri-fit T-shirt or rider hat/cycling cap, and final results are posted by category.
Proceeds and Community Impact
Event proceeds support local charitable endeavors and community groups. Funds raised through the event help organizations such as the North Star Rails to Trails (R2T) Society, Kimberley Volunteer Ski Patrol, Speed Watch and Kimberley Rotary Club, Cranbrook Noon Hour Rotary Club, Mark Creek Lion Club, WASA Lions Club, and the Cranbrook Sunrise Rotary Club.
Parking and Arrival
Parking is available at three designated areas at St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino, with attendants directing riders on arrival. St. Eugene is five minutes from the Canadian Rockies International Airport, ten minutes from Cranbrook, and twenty minutes from Kimberley.
