Fort Steele Heritage Town
1880s freeze frame
Some 16km northeast of Cranbrook, on Hwy 93/95 in a superb mountain-ringed setting, lies Fort Steele Heritage Town, an impressive late-nineteenth century village of some 55 buildings.
Compared to many similar ventures in Western Canada, this pioneer town has the distinct advantage of having authentic roots. This was a settlement that grew on the back of a mining boom and was rescued from becoming a ghost town by 1960s funding. The place has atmosphere to it, which is a real pleasure to wander around and absorb; and there are plenty of things like gold panning and stagecoach rides to keep kids entertained too.