In the quaint town of Kimberley, British Columbia, amid the picturesque Purcell Mountains, Kimberley Alpine Resort is not just a destination – it's an experience. The ski area caters to all levels, offering everything from long, tree-lined groomers to steep moguls and challenging glade runs. But Kimberley isn't just about skiing and snowboarding; it's a haven for families, offering a plethora of activities including ice skating, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, bowling, and even a movie theatre.
Kimberley Alpine Resort
With 1,800 skiable acres and 2,465 vertical feet of rise, Kimberley boasts 68 runs and 12 glade runs, ensuring there's something for everyone. Plus, it's home to North America's largest gladed terrain, spanning over 500 acres. But what truly sets Kimberley apart is its snow quality. Blessed with consistent snowfall of light and dry Purcell powder, Kimberley offers ideal conditions for all levels of skiers and riders. Whether you're carving up the front side's long, groomed trails or tackling the challenging terrain of the Easter Bowl on the backside, Kimberley promises unforgettable adventures.
Mountain Statistics:
- Vertical: 2,465 feet (751 meters)
- Terrain: 1800+ acres of skiable terrain
- Top Elevation: 6500 feet (1981 meters)
- Named Runs: 68
Kimberley History
In 1891, Kimberley's fortunes were unearthed with the discovery of galena, a lead-zinc ore vital for diodes and batteries. The North Star Mine marked the start, but it was the Sullivan Mine's emergence in 1892 across the valley that led to Kimberley's formal naming in 1896. Named after South Africa's diamond mine, Kimberley's transformation from mining town to ski haven began when the slopes, once under the North Star Mine, became a community ski hill.
Founded in 1948 as North Star, the ski area started with a 245-meter-long rope tow. A decade later, a t-bar stretching over 1.8 kilometres vertically climbed 460 meters in eleven minutes, shaping the early foundation of Kimberley Alpine Resort.
The Sullivan Mine thrived for over a century, closing in 2001, and by 1972, Kimberley embraced tourism, unveiling its "Bavarian City of the Rockies" charm. Reinvention continued, and in 1980, the Resorts of the Canadian Rockies entered the scene, securing Kimberley's status as the closest ski resort to an international airport.
Winter Operations
Kimberley isn't just about the slopes; it's a complete destination. From the moment I arrived, the community vibe was apparent and the atmosphere was electric. The Stemwinder offered not only fantastic food and live music but also a sense of camaraderie that permeated throughout the resort. From the friendly hosts to the dedicated ski patrollers, everyone seemed to share in the excitement of the mountain.
And let's not forget about the "First Tracks Tours" – an experience like no other. Imagine waking up at the crack of dawn, cruising through untouched powder or freshly groomed runs with your own private guide. It's a snow paradise worth every penny.
Amenities
From on-mountain accommodations to lively après-ski spots like The Stemwinder Bar and Grill, Kimberley ensures your winter getaway is flawless.
Buckhorn & Main Mountain Eatery - located in Trickle Creek Lodge and offers an elevated dining experience.
Stemwinder - perfect for apres skie
Kooteney Haus - lodge at the top of the resort.
Located at the heart of Kimberley Alpine Resort, the Kimberley Conference Center & Athletic Training Center spans 24,000 square feet, seamlessly blending natural surroundings with versatile meeting spaces to inspire and invigorate your organization. With the capacity to host banquets for up to 400 guests and theater-style meetings for up to 500, the Center features four breakout rooms ideal for smaller gatherings of up to 49 attendees, in addition to the main ballroom and pre-function area. Equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual capabilities, our conference specialists are on hand to guide clients in selecting the perfect rooms for their events. Meanwhile, the Athletic Training Center offers sports groups a dedicated space to prepare for their activities. With our expert event planners ready to assist, we're committed to ensuring an unforgettable experience for every guest.
Summer Operations
Play a round on one of Kimberley's 3 championship golf courses or visit the quaint shops and galleries in the European-style “Platzl”, in the heart of the town.
RCR's Trickle Creek Golf Resort offers a thrilling golfing experience amidst rugged alpine terrain. Designed by renowned architect Les Furber, this award-winning course boasts dramatic elevation changes, stunning vistas, and challenging holes. Recently voted the top course in Kimberley & Cranbrook, Trickle Creek promises an unforgettable day on the links. After your round, relax at the nearby Trickle Creek Lodge, featuring cozy accommodations, a hot tub, and heated pool.
If you're a winter season pass holder at any of the RCR resorts, Kimberley, Nakiska, Fernie, or Kicking Horse, you can get 50% off of your green fees at Trickle Creek Golf Resort.
