Located in Southeastern BC, in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is the picturesque Elk Valley. Meandering through the valley, and connecting the communities of Elkford, Sparwood and Fernie, the 220-km long Elk River flows southwesterly from the Petain Glacier at the Continental Divide between British Columbia and Alberta. At its terminus, the Elk connects with Lake Koocanusa and the Kootenay River, just north of the Montana border.
The Elk Valley is home to one of the largest steel-making coal mining regions in the world; producing one-sixth of the metallurgical coal for the entire international steel industry. The mining sector provides significant regional economic benefits including an industrial tax base that infuses millions of dollars annually into the communities of Elkford, Sparwood and Fernie. Global steel producers hold Elk Valley coal in high regard, and its vast, proven reserves mean it should underpin the regional economy for decades.
Adventure tourism is also growing as a significant economic sector. World-class hunting and fishing, extensive mountain trail networks, and deep powder snow for skiing and snowmobiling attract adventure seekers from around the world. Adventure tourism amenities contribute to the livability of the Valley communities and encourage residents to maintain an active outdoor lifestyle. With Calgary just 3 hours away, adventure seekers and amenity-driven entrepreneurs, continue to gravitate to the valley; generating demand for tourist accommodations, residential home construction, and other services.
With a resilient economy and liveable communities with a range of amenities, all located in a spectacular mountain setting, the Elk Valley is a great place to invest, work, live and raise a family.
