A paved path linking Cranbrook and Kimberley, with mountains on both sides.
NorthStar Rails to Trails is a 28-kilometre paved trail that connects Cranbrook and Kimberley along a former rail corridor. Running between the Purcell Mountains and the Rocky Mountain Trench, the route offers a front-row view of southeastern British Columbia’s layered landscape, where grasslands give way to forest, and lakes and rivers break up the valley floor.
The trail is designed for easy, non-technical use, making it well suited to cycling, walking, running, and casual outings. Trailheads are located at the north end of Cranbrook and near the Civic Centre Arena in Kimberley, allowing visitors to tackle the full distance or choose shorter sections that fit their time and energy. The steady grade makes it approachable for families and riders looking for a longer, uninterrupted stretch.
Along the way, you’ll find picnic tables, public washrooms, and memorial benches placed at scenic viewpoints. These small pauses encourage slower travel, whether that means stopping for lunch, taking in the views, or simply catching your breath. The trail is maintained from spring through fall and is not groomed in winter, keeping its focus on three-season use.
NorthStar Rails to Trails is less about speed and more about rhythm. It’s a place for conversation, long miles, and watching the landscape change as you move through it, linking two communities with a route that invites you to take your time.
Cranbrook mountain biking trails
