| Sparwood, a small coal-mining town set in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, offers residents and visitors plenty to do. There are numerous snowmobiling, mountain biking, and hiking trails. And skiers will appreciate the proximity to the Fernie Alpine Resort, which is just 30 minutes away. Campers can pitch their tents at the Mountain Shadows Campground (and the golfers among them can take its cart path and head to the Sparwood Golf Course). Those who prefer boating and fishing can head to nearby Grave Lake, Michelle Creek, or Summit Lake.
Aside from the surrounding natural splendor, Sparwood is most famous for being home to the largest dump truck in the world: the colossal 330-ton 1974 Terex Titan! Once you've "oohed" and "awed" over the Titan, follow the large footsteps path that will guide you along the Sparwood Mural Walk – you'll see impressive murals that portray Sparwood's interesting history. For a tour of a different nature, be sure to check out the Elkview open-pit coal mine, one of the largest coal mines in Canada.
In June, Sparwood's 2,254 residents come out for the annual Coal Miner Days, which consists of a parade, ball games, horseshoe tournaments, and dances. After all that excitement, spend a relaxing afternoon at the beautiful Elk Valley Family Leisure Center, with its indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, and fitness room. Or you can head to the Henry Volkmann Memorial Leisure Center, which offers a variety of activities, including swimming, bocci ball, racquetball, squash, and mini golf. |