The area known as the Cranbrook Community Forest encompasses 2000 hectares of crown forest land on the east and north boundary of the City of Cranbrook.  Since 1987 it has received provincial protection.  Up to that point of time the area was used for various activities, many of which were extremely damaging to this sensitive ecosystem of forest, grassland and lakes.

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The CCF is an established Recreation Site (governed by the Forest Recreation Regulations) and as such provides a variety of recreational opportunities.  During the summer months visitors can enjoy the many trails throughout the forest for walking, biking, horsebackriding, and running. The Alkali Lake, Sylvan Lake, and Kettle Lake picnic sites provide areas with tables, washroom facility and places for families and groups to rest.   A short self guided interpretive nature trail circles Kettle Lake.  A map of the trails and other features in the CCF is to be found at kiosks located at the main entry points.  The lakes provide excellent birding opportunities throughout the year. Early in the spring crocus flowers abound throughout the grassland areas above Sylvan Lake, and are replaced by shooting star orchids in the summer. Winter provides cross country skiing opportunities, hiking, and snow shoeing, depending on snow levels.