Photo: Janice Strong
Morning
Start your day with breakfast at Soulfood, an organic-focused café and restaurant in the heart of Cranbrook. Their delicious breakfasts, made with local produce, will satisfy your hunger before your outing on the Chief Isadore Trail.
Begin your Trail journey at the Isadore Canyon trailhead at the entrance of Cranbrook Community Forest, and follow the Trail as you take in views of the Steeples and the Rockies.
If you want to take a short break, follow the Rampart Rest Area Loop. This easy seven-kilometre hard-packed gravel path connects the Rampart Rest Area along highway 3 with the rail grade of the main Chief Isadore Trail in an easy six-kilometre loop, passing by several small ponds. Stop by the rest area and enjoy a packed lunch and some water, before following the loop back to the main Chief Isadore Trail.
Photo: Janice Strong
Afternoon
In the mood for a more strenuous cycle? Continue to the Mayook Trail, a fun 17-kilometre section of the Chief Isadore Trail that begins at the Pritchard Road trailhead. The Mayook Trail leaves the old rail-grade and climbs 200 metres over the course of eight kilometres, gaining elevation from both directions to a midway high point, where you can stop for a snack or to take photos. Ride up and down this trail, which has sustained grades of 5%. It’s a winding section with an enjoyable, easy downhill run. Once you reach the trailhead at Ha-Ha Creek Road, turn back and return to Cranbrook.
As you explore the Chief Isadore Trail, you’ll find numerous kiosks explaining the history and geography of this stunning area. You’ll also discover a number of interpretive signs explaining the customs and heritage of the Ktunaxa Nation, which TCT helped to develop in partnership with the local Indigenous community.
Evening
Settle into your first night in Cranbrook with dinner at Allegra, a Mediterranean-themed restaurant on Cranbrook Street North.