Kimberley Alpine Resort

Imagine the snow-covered slopes of the Purcell Mountains, where soft, fluffy snow known as Purcell Powder blankets over 1,800 acres. Kimberley Alpine Resort is a popular ski complex located in the charming town of Kimberley. This part of Canada is famous for its hospitality and for having the sunniest skies of any ski resort in British Columbia.

The resort is spread across the northeastern slope of North Star hill and offers a vertical drop of about 751 meters. There are more than 80 runs, ranging from options for cautious beginners to experienced thrill-seekers looking for excitement in the dense Black Forest. One unique feature of the resort is its proximity to an international airport, making it extremely convenient for travelers.

Despite its focus on skiing, the facility is a year-round recreation center. In summer, the alpine slopes transform into trails for hiking and mountain biking, and the lifts take nature lovers to stunning panoramic viewpoints. Regardless of the season, Kimberley Alpine Resort maintains an atmosphere of family comfort and authenticity that its regular guests value so much.

For more details on your trip, booking condo-hotel accommodations, or purchasing lift tickets, you can use the official contact information for Kimberley Alpine Resort. The Information Center is always ready to assist travelers with their holiday planning.

In winter, Kimberley Alpine Resort becomes a true mecca for snow sports enthusiasts. You can challenge yourself on the long mogul runs of the Black Forest, often compared to the best slopes in Colorado, or enjoy the impeccable corduroy on the well-groomed wide descents. For families with children, there are dedicated ski schools, and the modern North Star Express Chair lift will whisk you to the summit in no time.

After an active day on the slopes, be sure to stop by the legendary Stemwinder Bar & Grill. This spot is famous for its après-ski atmosphere, where you can discuss the day's highlights over live music. Besides skiing, winter guests can enjoy snowshoeing and ice skating in the city center, accessible via a free shuttle.

The summer season offers just as many experiences. You can head out for a thrilling downhill mountain bike ride using the lift or explore endless hiking trails winding through alpine meadows. Those looking for a more relaxed pace will appreciate the proximity to eight golf courses, including the famous Trickle Creek, located just minutes from the base. Whatever the season, don't miss the chance to visit downtown Kimberley to see the famous cuckoo clock and enjoy some shopping in the Platzl pedestrian zone.

Kimberley Alpine Resort is considered one of the most accessible ski resorts in the region. The main gateway for travelers is the Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) in Cranbrook, located just a 15-minute drive from the resort. This makes it an ideal destination for those who don't want to spend much time on transfers after their flight.

If you are arriving by car from Calgary or Vancouver, your route will take you along the scenic Highway 95/93. Once in town, follow the signs for Gerry Sorensen Way, which will lead you directly to the main entrance and the parking lots at the base of North Star hill. For those who prefer public transportation, a free shuttle runs between the city center (the Platzl area) and the resort during the winter season.

For maximum freedom to explore the surrounding Purcell Mountains, it is recommended to rent a car directly at the airport. This will allow you not only to reach the slopes easily but also to visit neighboring natural parks and golf courses at your own pace.

The history of this place is inextricably linked to the mining past of British Columbia. Back in 1891, the first lead ore mine was established on the northeastern slope of North Star hill. Interestingly, the town itself was named after the famous Kimberley in South Africa, in the hope that the local Sullivan Mine would prove just as rich in diamonds. No diamonds were found, but the mine became the world's largest producer of zinc and lead.

The official journey as a tourist destination began in 1948 with the opening of the North Star ski center. In those days, the infrastructure was modest: skiers were served by a simple rope tow less than 250 meters long. However, by the 1970s, as mining began to decline, city officials decided to pivot toward tourism, transforming Kimberley into a "Bavarian village" with cozy chalets and a cuckoo clock in the main square.

A major milestone in the resort's development was hosting the Canada Winter Games in 1979–1980. This led to significant infrastructure improvements, including the construction of modern lodges, the creation of new runs, and the expansion of the ski area. Today, Kimberley Alpine Resort is managed by Resorts of the Canadian Rockies and has grown from a small mining settlement into a world-class year-round destination.

To fully appreciate everything Kimberley Alpine Resort has to offer in the winter, it is best to plan for a full day. This is enough time to try out the main runs on North Star hill and enjoy the après-ski atmosphere. If you are short on time, 4–6 hours of active skiing will allow you to cover the key descents, including the famous mogul runs.

In the summer, 3–5 hours is usually sufficient for hiking mountain trails or mountain biking. However, many tourists prefer to stay for 2–3 days to combine active mountain recreation with a round of golf at one of the eight nearby courses and leisurely strolls through Kimberley's historic center.

The ski season at Kimberley Alpine Resort typically runs from mid-December to early April. During this period, the main lifts begin operating around 09:00 and close at 16:00. The ticket offices and information desk at the resort base are open daily from 08:30 to 16:30.

During the summer months and shoulder seasons, the schedule can change significantly depending on weather conditions and scheduled events. Visitors are strongly encouraged to check the current status of runs and services on the official website before their trip, as the facility may be temporarily closed for seasonal maintenance.

The area surrounding the resort offers many options for relaxing after a day of skiing or mountain hiking. You can sample local cuisine or immerse yourself in the town's history just a short distance from the slopes.