Hi SMW * Thanks for contributing your beautiful pictures. I am enjoying learning about your area.

The Rails to Trails between Cranbrook and Kimberley offers 25 km. of travel through gentle rolling countryside with great views in all directions.

On route to Kimberley, above the St. Mary River looking towards the Purcell Mtns.

Looking W. towards St. Mary Lake.

Looking W. towards Perry Creek.

Taken from Rails to Trails on the return trip to Cranbrook.

Fisher Peak, the highest local peak in the Rockies.

The Steeples.

Looking SE towards Baker Mtn.

I missed the perfect photo-op today.
I went to Elizabeth lake for a walk and a beautiful bald eagle came swooping down and grabbed something out of the water.
He had a bit of a struggle getting himself airborne again but when he did he headed straight south and disappeared into the trees.

What wonderful pictures - another place I'd love to see someday.

And isn't that always the way, Judy - but at least you got to enjoy seeing the whole process, rather than having half your attention on the camera.

The Kootenay Trout Hatchery is a short drive from Cranbrook on the Wardner Fort Steele Road. It is a popular place to visit. From there you can take a drive, or go for a bike ride along Fenwick Road through a beautiful area called Picture Valley beside the Kootenay River. It makes for a pleasant bike loop returning by the relatively quiet highway past Peckhams Lake and Norbury Lake, a popular provincial campground.

The Steeples

Kootenay River from Fenwick Road

Baker Mtn.

Boy oh boy! It sure is nice to find yet more beautiful scenery and pictures here at HWF. I really must remember to explore more often, and I will, once the Lafarge family is gone from the nest area!