Sparwood, BC

Elk Valley cuts deep into the Rocky Mountains, and in its center lies Sparwood, named for the nearby trees used as spars for ships. Sparwood is as well known for its abundance of wildlife as it is for the 260 ton Terex Titan, the world's largest dump truck. A visit to Sparwood isn't complete without touring Elkview Mine, one of Canada's largest open pit coal mines.

When you stop by the Info Centre, it would be impossible to miss the Terex Titan. Brought to Sparwood in 1978 to work the mines, the dump truck was retired in 1990 because it was no longer cost efficient. The Titan is able to carry two buses plus two pick-up trucks in its box, and each tire alone weights 8000 lbs (4 tons). Take a moment to visit the Elkview Mine, and learn how coal is recovered from the earth and processed into clean, usable coal. Tours operate throughout the summer but it's recommended that you book in advance to ensure you get a seat.

Discover the history of Sparwood by touring through the streets on a mural walk. Over a dozen full-sized murals have been painted on walls throughout the town, and the number dedicated to the mines and the miners shows just how proud Sparwood is of its mining heritage.Sparwood is located on Highway 3, 125 km (78 mi.) northeast of Cranbrook. Buses stop at the town, and commercial airlines fly into Cranbrook airport, only 125 km southwest of Sparwood. Population: 4,163Elevation: 1140m (3740ft.)

5 Day Weather Forecast for Sparwood

Date	Weather	High	Low
May 16, 2012	N/A	N/A	4
May 17, 2012	Few Showers	18	2
May 18, 2012	Rain	12	-2
May 19, 2012	Partly Cloudy	16	-1
May 20, 2012	Partly Cloudy	19	2