Sparwood (population 4000) is a district municipality on the #3 Crowsnest Highway and is the second largest community on the Elk River. Located approximately 30 kilometres east of Fernie and grew up in the late 1800s when the local railroad stop was named Sparwood, for the area’s trees that were turned into spars for the wooden sailing vessels of that era. Logging is still important but has now become secondary to coal mining. The Sparwood/Elk Valley Airport supports general aviation (small private planes), and nearby Cranbrook/Canadian Rockies International Airport (about 2 hours away) has commercial airline service.
Sparwood, BC Attractions
Titan Truck
Just off Highway 3
The green Terex Titan truck, billed as the “largest truck in the world” was in service in Sparwood’s coal mines between 1978 and 1991, is just off the Crowsnest Highway beside the town’s tourist information centre. Learn about the efficiency of 21st century coal mining with a tour of one of Canada’s largest open pit mines.
Also explore the history of underground coal mining with the aid of the Sparwood Mining History Walking Tour.
Mine Tours
250-425-2423 (for reservation)
The tours take place at 1:00 pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
The Sparwood Chamber of Commerce conducts interpretive coal mine tours in the months of July and August. Learn about the efficiency of 21st century coal mining with a tour of one of Canada’s largest open pit mines. Preregister at the Visitor Information Centre by the giant dump truck. Note that closed-toe shoes are required.
Sparwood Market
Titan Park, beside the Green Truck
Weekly Fridays 4 pm – 7 pm
website
Enjoy the live music, yummy baked goods and fare from the food trucks. You will also find beautiful homemade goodies, art, jewelry and so much more.