The Rockies makes Cranbrook and the East Kootenay a class, four seasons resort destination. Visitors from around the world experience the "Rocky Mountain High" while camping, fishing, boating and hiking. During the winter, Canada's finest ski resorts come alive at Kimberley, Fernie, Banff, Panorama, Snow Valley and Lake Louise, only short drives from Cranbrook. Cranbrook's beautiful natural setting, well developed tourist facilities and access to major tourist attractions including many golf courses and Fort Steele Heritage Town are the key ingredients for the local trade and convention industry.
Cranbrook serves retail trading area population exceeding 55,000. As a result, the City has two major shopping centres, an active central business district, over 25 hotels and motels, three campgrounds within the City and more than 50 eating establishments.