The area known as Cranbrook was originally inhabited by Ktunaxa tribes, who then sold it to European settlers. One notable settler in particular was Colonel James Baker, who decided to name his new land after the town he grew up in in England. The name stuck, making Cranbrook the permanent title.
Things began to blossom for the fledgling Cranbrook when the Canadian Pacific Railway built their new Crowsnest Pass line through the city. This new route made the city a major hub in the region, leading to its incorporation in 1905.
Today, the city thrives mostly on the healthcare, mining, and forestry industries. As a visitor, you'll appreciate the many outdoor attractions the area has to offer, including numerous parks, water activities, winter sports, and more. Most visitors also love checking out the Canadian Museum of Rail Travel on Van Horne Street South. Whatever your reason for visiting Cranbrook, make your trip the best it can be by picking the right time of year and the right accommodations for your trip.
What is the best time to visit Cranbrook, BC?
There's truly no bad time to visit Cranbrook, as the city offers activities for visitors on a year-round basis. However, if your main goal is to bask in the sun, go on a hike, or swim in one of several local lakes, you'll definitely want to hit the area in the summer. If you choose any time from June to September, you'll have great weather, with average highs ranging from the mid 70s to the low 80s.
Obviously, these great temperatures also make Cranbrook quite crowded in the summer, as many visitors flock to enjoy the balmy weather. The most popular months for a visit are July, June, and August, so schedule your trip outside of these months for a less-crowded experience.
Late spring and early fall are usually only slightly cooler, making them a good alternative. The last frost of the season typically happens around May 26, while the first one for the season happens around Sept. 14. Therefore, if your goal is to try camping or hiking, you might want to do so before or after these dates to avoid chilly nights and mornings.
Visiting in winter means you'll have a chance to experience all of the winter sports in the area. Plus, there will be less tourists around to hinder your experience. Average temperatures from December to February are in the 20s to 30s, making it great weather for skiing and snowboarding.
Regardless of when you're visiting, Cranbrook is consistently one of the sunniest places in all of British Columbia. The city sees about 2,190 hours of sun a year, meaning you'll have great weather for whatever you're doing. Even better, Cranbrook is also one of the least foggy, windy, and wet cities in the region, with most precipitation coming in the form of snow in the winter months.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Cranbrook, BC:
Cranbrook by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean nightly cost trends by star rating class in Cranbrook, BC. You can use these charts to determine the best time to book a room in Cranbrook during the year.
Which luxury hotels are in Cranbrook, BC?
Many of the true luxury accommodation options near Cranbrook are too far outside of town to be feasible. However, there are still a couple of great hotels right in town that will meet your needs as a luxury traveler.
Consider staying at the Prestige Rocky Mountain Resort Cranbrook, which is extremely close to both Cranbrook Golf and Country Club and Cranbrook History Centre. At this 3.5-star, 112-room resort, you'll love relaxing at the attached spa that offers facials, massages, and body treatments. Other amenities include a spa tub, indoor pool, fitness center, hair salon, and concierge services.
The other luxury hotel option to consider is the St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino, which is a 3.5-star resort just a few minutes away from the Casino of the Rockies. All of the 125 rooms are air conditioned and come with a refrigerator, free Wi-Fi, and video game consoles for the television.
Sink into a relaxed state after a visit to the full-service spa, or work on your swing at the on-site golf course. If these activities aren't your style, try your hand at gambling at the casino or swim a few laps at the outdoor pool. When it's time to eat, stop at one of the two different restaurants to satiate your hunger.
What options are in Cranbrook, BC for the most affordable hotels?
If you're looking for some of the most affordable hotels in Cranbrook, the Travelodge Cranbrook, Super 8 Cranbrook, and Days Inn Cranbrook are wonderful options. At the Travelodge Cranbrook, you can choose from a number of room configurations, including king bed and queen bed rooms and suites. The guestrooms all feature kitchenettes so you can save even more money by preparing your own meals. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, in-room coffee makers, a business center, and laundry. Best of all, pets are also welcome here for a small additional fee.
Stop by the Super 8 Cranbrook for a clean and comfortable stay. You'll appreciate the friendly service at this two-floor, 48-room facility. Each room comes with a private bathroom, LED TV, free Wi-Fi, phones, and free weekday newspapers. Best of all, you'll be able to save extra on breakfast, as a complimentary continental buffet is offered each morning.
One final affordable option is the Days Inn Cranbrook. Splash in the outdoor pool, fill your belly with a complimentary breakfast each morning, and get in a quick workout at the fitness facility. With three floors and 89 rooms, this hotel is extremely close to the airport and the Cranbrook History Centre, making it convenient if you're flying in or plan on visiting this attraction.