Family Biking Trip in BC’s East Kootenays

You don’t need to be an expert rider to enjoy a mountain biking trip through Kimberley, Cranbrook, and Fernie. We tested this 3-day summer getaway with our kids and found beginner-friendly trails, fun bike parks, splash pads and plenty of ice cream and coffee stops along the way.

With short drives, well-marked paths, and lots to do off the bike, this East Kootenay itinerary is an excellent intro to family biking in the mountains.

Day 1 – Biking in Kimberley with Kids

Start your day at the Kimberley Nordic Centre, right at the top of Kimberley Alpine Resort. Begin with the Happy Hans Loop, a 2.5 km scenic trail with just 64 m of climb. It’s a short, but really fun trail for families. At the end of the loop, stop at the bike skills park near the trail entrance. Kids will love testing out the jumps and bridges.

After biking, head to The Platzl, Kimberley’s pedestrian-only downtown. Grab ice cream from Summit Snacks. The kids' “cute cone” is just the right size. Let the kids play with the nearby lawn games, fountain and sand area while you relax.

Next, ride a stretch of the North Star Rail Trail from Rotary Park. It’s a flat, paved path that’s great for kids. Ride as far as you like. We did 5 km out and then headed back. Before leaving, let the kids loose at the Rotary Park playground and splash pad.

For dinner, head back to The Platzl and find a table at Pedal & Tap. It’s casual, family-friendly, and the portions are generous. Try to sit near the open windows for a breezy feel.

Stay nearby at Alpine Lodging near the Kimberley Alpine Resort. A condo with a kitchen and hot tub is a perfect way to end the day.

Day 2 – Biking in Cranbrook with Kids

Eat breakfast at the condo and then drive about 30 minutes to Cranbrook. If you have time, stop at Marysville Falls. It’s a quick, 1.4 km return trail.

In Cranbrook, start with a ride in the Cranbrook Community Forest. Search for “Cranbrook Community Forest South Side Parking” on Stahl Road to find the right spot. Try the Elephant Run and Pilsit loop. It starts with a climb and finishes with a smooth downhill, which is perfect for building confidence.

After your ride, refuel at Hot Shots Café, a cozy local spot serving sandwiches, pastries, and great coffee. Treat the family to frozen yogurt at Twisted Peaks. Choose your flavours, pile on the toppings, and pay by weight.

Afterward, walk over to the Cranbrook History Centre. Kids can join a scavenger hunt while you explore exhibits on wildlife, geology, Indigenous history, and train travel. Don’t miss the story of the Cranbrook Arch. You’ll spot a replica downtown later.

Next, drive to the Eagle Hill side of the Community Forest and ride the Padawan Trail. This trail is part of the Star Wars-themed network. This 4.3 km loop is smooth and scenic, with a peaceful lake near the end that’s perfect for a break.

For dinner and a fun evening, head to Encore Brewing, located in a renovated 1960s bowling alley. Reserve a lane, enjoy games like Connect 4 and mini basketball, and order food to share. 

End your trip at the Prestige Hotel Cranbrook. Kids will love the indoor pool with the waterslide.

Day 3 – Biking in Fernie with Kids

Grab a quick breakfast and drive about an hour to Fernie. Start your day in Fernie with the breathtaking Easy Beaver to Montane Hut biking trail. It’s a 7 km round-trip trail with 118 m of elevation gain. Some sections can be a bit challenging for young kids, but the views of the Lizard Range at the top make it all worth it. Keep an eye out for wild raspberries along the way. The descent is fast and fun (maybe a bit too fast for me!). Plan for about two hours round trip, including a snack break at the top.

After your ride, drive into downtown Fernie and take a stroll through the historic core. Grab a bite at Big Bang Bagels for fresh, homemade, and known as some of the best in B.C. Visit the Fernie Museum for a quick and engaging look at local history. If you have time, pick up the first clue of a city-wide bike-based scavenger hunt that starts there.

Next up, hop back on your bikes and head out along the Elk Valley Trail, part of the Trans-Canada Trail. Ride to Maiden Lake, where you can search for painted turtles (we weren’t lucky this time!). Then follow the Fernie Valley Pathway back toward town. This route is smooth with minimal incline. 

End your ride with an early dinner at Bridge Bistro, right by the Elk River. If the weather’s good, grab a table on the outdoor patio and enjoy the mountain views while you eat. You can even bike there straight from the pathway.

Stay the night at Fernie Stanford Hotel & Resort, just outside downtown and near the ski hill. The hotel sits right by the river and has a waterslide and game room. It’s a guaranteed hit after a full day of riding.

Ready to Ride?

This 3-day trip through Kimberley, Cranbrook, and Fernie is proof that mountain biking with kids can be fun, flexible, and full of surprises. With a mix of smooth trails, cool stops, and scenic views, it’s the kind of adventure the whole family will remember and want to do again.