As soon as the snow had melted, motorcycles started popping up left and right on our streets here in Cranbrook, B.C. Since we’re situated on the southeastern tip of the province, winter ends a little sooner than other places in B.C., but we still have the benefit of being surrounded by the snow-covered peaks of the Kootenay Rockies and Purcell Mountains.
At times, it’s almost ironic to be cruising the open road, warm summer wind slapping our faces, and still see snow on the mountains. But that’s what it’s all about—the scenery and that enduring sense of freedom that only a bike can bring.
If you are planning a trip to our town this summer, there are a few great rides you can try.
Cranbrook to Kootenay Lake
Highway 3A is legendary among motorcyclists. With splendid views of Kootenay Lake, quaint communities along the way, and more curves than you can imagine, it’s a road you’ll want to ride over and over.
Highway 3A actually begins north of the town of Creston, but if you start the ride from Cranbrook, you’ll get to take in the scenery along Moyie Lake as well. To begin, just follow the highway heading west of Cranbrook. Eventually, you will come to a junction; turn right.
You might be curved out by the time you reach the Kootenay Lake ferry terminal but if not, take the free 35-minute ferry ride from Crawford Bay to Balfour and continue the ride on to Nelson.
From Nelson, you can generate a circle loop back to Creston via Kootenay Pass.
At Crawford Bay, riders can take the free ferry across Kootenay Lake to Balfour. One of the benefits of being on a bike is getting priority boarding. — Meagan Broome photo
Cranbrook to Wardner via Fort Steele
Cranbrook traces many of its roots back to the town of Fort Steele, which is located 16 kilometres northeast of Cranbrook. Now a historic site, Fort Steele boasts more than 60 fully restored heritage buildings.
It’s a great place to stop and take a stroll to stretch your legs, but the real appeal for motorcyclists is not the town but rather the road that begins right across from it, the Wardner-Fort Steele Road.
The road itself is not the twistiest, but it does offer illustrious views of the Steeples Mountain range with several farms along the way. And traffic is usually low. Norbury Lake or the Kootenay Trout Hatchery are some good stops along the way.
At the junction of Highway 3/93 is where this road ends, but you don’t have to retrace your steps; just turn right and follow the highway back to Cranbrook.
If you’re on a dual-purpose or adventure-type bike, there are several options for side trips along this route. One you could try is the Wild Horse River Forest Service Road to Fisherville.
At one time, Fisherville was home to a population of about 5,000 gold miners, but these days it’s a lot quieter. An old cemetery and a few dilapidated buildings are all that remain of Fisherville’s glory days. Visitors can learn more about the area on the interpretive signs that are posted throughout, or follow the gravel road down to the Wild Horse River. It is a peaceful spot to have lunch.
Mission-Wycliffe Road
A short but enjoyable ride is the Mission-Wycliffe Road. This route begins north of Cranbrook and immediately winds its way past the historic St. Eugene Mission Resort & Casino. From there, you advance into sparsely treed areas and then pastureland.
The road ends where it meets up with Highway 95A. From there, you can either head back to Cranbrook on the highway or extend your ride by taking the Wycliffe Park Road. This alternate route back to Cranbrook has its fair share of twisties as well.
After crossing the wooden bridge, turn right onto the old Wycliffe Road; it takes you right into downtown Cranbrook via King Street, completing a circle tour.
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