Getting Around
While we’ve got big opportunities for adventure here, you don’t need to drive long distances to soak up Kimberley’s magic. Our downtown core is centred around the pedestrian-only Platzl and is surrounded by trails, attractions and accommodations. Settle into home base, and explore on-foot or by-bike before taking advantage of convenient transit at the end of the day. For those wanting to venture further out, keep the car handy or prepare for a longer day in the saddle. We’ve got plenty of nearby lakes, trails, and rivers to discover in the Purcell Mountains and Canadian Rockies.
By Foot
In Kimberley, we fully embrace hitting the streets and getting our steps in. The pedestrian-only Platzl is home to many stores, restaurants, and attractions. This area is best explored on foot, and is also perfect for strollers or travellers with limited mobility. From the Platzl, the resorts on the ski hill and many trail networks can be easily accessed with a short stroll. Plus, many key attractions like the Marysville Falls are reserved for foot traffic only. Keep in mind that Kimberley ranks as one of the highest elevated cities in British Columbia, so we do have our fair share of hills. Bring along a sturdy pair of shoes, plus plenty of hydration during the hotter months.
By Bike
Kimberley’s bike-friendly culture makes it easy to ditch the car and come as you are. Our paved paths around town and the Rails To Trails route between Kimberley and Cranbrook are best suited for road or e-bikes, adaptive bikers, and any stroller or strider looking to tackle some cruisy trails. Mountain bikers find fun on the many nature trails throughout town; most of which are accessed by a short bike ride from the Platzl. Looking to peruse the downtown core and grab some refreshments post-ride? We’ve got our fair share of bike racks located throughout town. Pack a bike lock with you, and breathe a sigh of relief: our rate of bike theft is nearly non-existent here. Didn't bring your bike? No problem, there are many places in town to rent bikes!
With only one intersection in town, and a community that embraces foot and bike transport, we’ve got more Forest Service Roads than we do traffic jams.
By Shuttle
The Kimberley Transit System offers regular rides throughout town, as well as trips to neighbouring Cranbrook. A popular transit option is to enjoy a cruisy 26km bike ride to Cranbrook along the paved North Star Rails To Trails, then hop on the Kimberley-Cranbrook Commuter for a smooth ride back to town. In the wintertime, enjoy the Route 23 Peak to Platzl: a free ski shuttle service to get you and your gear to and from the Mountain. There are also private shuttle services available around town.
For ground transportation from the Canadian Rockies International Airport, Kimberley Transit offers a Monday-Friday shuttle by request.
By Car
Coming by car? While there’s so much to soak up on foot or by bike here, car travel is perfect for any traveller looking to explore deeper into the Purcell or Rocky Mountains. Be warned: we’re fresh out of gridlocks and long waits at traffic lights. With only one intersection in town and a community that embraces foot and bike transport, we’ve got more Forest Service Roads than we do traffic jams. Though there are plenty of 2WD roads to explore, some popular hikes, lakes and biking trails are better suited with high-clearance, 4WD vehicles. Be sure to keep an eye on road conditions and driving advisories throughout the year, and stock up on relevant maps and apps before setting out on your front or backcountry adventures.
