Being a rail trail, the slopes are gradual, averaging 1.5% and less. Total elevation change along the trail is slightly less than 250 metres. As well as a washroom, there is paved parking right at this trailhead, affording excellent wheelchair access.
All motor vehicles and horses are prohibited.
Currently 40 km. in length, this paved trail follows the abandoned CPR railbed from Cranbrook to Kimberley. Its intended use is for hiking, running, biking and blading. All motor vehicles and horses are prohibited. Being a rail trail, the slopes are gradual, averaging 1.5% and less. Total elevation change along the trail is slightly less than 250 metres. Parking is available at the north trailhead, but not at the south.
This trail, commonly known as the North Star Rail Trail, affords spectacular views of the Rockies to the east and generally beautiful scenery the full length of the trail. When originally completed the trail was simply a rail trail but, in 2012 it officially became a link in the Trans Canada Trail. A major benefit of its becoming part of the TCT is the availability of funding for maintenance and infrastructure, as well as worldwide exposure and more signage. A Kootenay News Advertiser article of March, 2012 covered the trail's inclusion n the TCT. It is reprinted below.
A great writeup on a journey up and down the trail can be found
here.