Casino of the Rockies Review
Hidden beneath the shadow of the Canadian Rockies could be one of British Columbia’s hottest casinos. Is Casino of the Rockies all that and more?
Stick with us as we test and review the entire casino experience with details on game selection, dining options, and much more.
Casino of the Rockies Ratings
| Overall Rating | 3/5 |
|---|---|
Slot Machines | 5/5 |
Casino Games | 1/5 |
Staff & Service | 4/5 |
Loyalty & Rewards | 5/5 |
Casino Atmosphere | 4/5 |
House Rules (T&Cs) | 4/5 |
Player Feedback | 3.9/5 |
Operator | 4/5 |
Table of Contents
- Casino of the Rockies Rating and Review Process
- Slot Machines – 5/5
- Casino Games – 1/5
- Staff & Service – 3/5
- Loyalty & Rewards – 5/5
- Casino Atmosphere – 4/5
- House Rules (T&Cs) – 4/5
- Player Feedback – 3.9/5
- Operator – 4/5
- Casino of the Rockies Competitors
- Casino of the Rockies Pros and Cons
- Should You Visit Casino of the Rockies?
Casino of the Rockies Rating and Review Process
Armed with our specialzed review system, our casino experts analyze, test, and review casinos in Canada.
We poke and prod at every corner of the casinos we test. By providing vital information gathered from our first-hand experiences, you’ll get the latest insights.
Our reviews give you the tools to make the most informed decision about where you’ll be heading for your next gaming experience.
How we inspected Casino of the Rockies
- Date of visit: 08/09/2024
- Time of visit: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Initial bankroll: C$100
- What we played: Slots, e–Roulette
- Final bankroll: C$210
- Next visit: 08/10/2025
What we looked at
We consider objective and subjective factors to ensure we provide the most detailed reviews possible.
For example, objectively, we look for the existence of progressive jackpot games and, subjectively, we review the casino’s reward benefits.
What we found
Address | 7777 Mission Rd, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 7E5 |
Open hours | Sun – Thurs:11 AM – 11 PM Fri & Sat: 11 AM – 1 AM |
Membership | Not required |
Minimum age | 19 |
ID checks | Yes |
Game types | Slots, VLT |
Tables | Temporarily closed |
Slot machines | 210 |
Gaming terminals | 20+ |
Payment | Cash, Card, Chips |
Average betting range | Slots: C$0.01+ VLT: C$1+ |
Free drinks (Canada) | Yes, coffee |
Restaurant | Yes |
Hotel | Yes |
Slot Machines – 5/5
The slot collection at Casino of the Rockies is vibrant, and diverse, and features a great selection of classic favourites and exciting modern titles.
Slots we played at Casino of the Rockies
We started the night playing a few classic slots including Queen of Atlantis and Burning Wolf.
After playing a few penny slots, we switch to VLT games before jumping on Wonder Woman Wild and Gold.
As usual, we tried to end the night with a jackpot win, so we played BC Gold and Rising Fortunes Jin Ji Bao Xi.
How many slot machines does Casino of the Rockies have?
Casino of the Rockies currently has 210 slot machines.
Do the slot machines accept coins?
No, the slot machines only accept cash notes, casino vouchers, and reward card free play.
Slot machine providers
- Aristocrat
- Bally
- Konami
Local progressive jackpots
The casino houses many local progressive jackpot slots that are powered by bets on that game within the casino.
Casino of the Rockies also has the British Columbia-wide progressive jackpot network BC Gold, which is powered by bets placed on the game at all casinos in British Columbia.
Casino Games – 1/5
Casino of the Rockies used to offer several table games.
However, due to staff shortages since the COVID pandemic, live tables remain ‘temporarily closed’.
Thankfully, you can still play several VLT table games including roulette, blackjack, and baccarat.
Game types
- E-Roulette
- E-Blackjack
- E-Baccarat
Betting limits
VLT table games start for as little as C$1.
Can anyone bet the highest limits or you need special VIP access?
Anyone can bet on the highest VLT machine limits.
Staff & Service – 3/5
Food & Drinks
Food and drinks are available at a restaurant which serves small plates, grill, sandwiches, and entrees. The restaurant has daily specials, which even include C$5 Free Play.
With mains and sandwiches between C$16 and C$19, the restaurant is affordable. There are also numerous “on-the-go” items and desserts too. Domestic and imported beer won’t cost more than C$8 or C$9, and the signature cocktail list features unique twists on popular classics.
Additional dining is available in the St. Eugene Resort Hotel too.
Opening hours
- Sun – Thurs: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Fri & Sat: 12 PM – 11 PM
How much do you tip at Casino of the Rockies?
The standard complimentary tip in British Columbia is 15-20%.
Does Casino of the Rockies offer free drinks?
Complimentary coffee is available to players.
Is there a buffet at Casino of the Rockies?
No, Casino of the Rockies does not offer a buffet.
Parking
Plenty of free parking is available beside the casino and resort.
There is also a huge RV park offering glamping rentals and long-stay options from April through October.
RV travellers can stay for one to seven months. A month’s stay ranges from C$950 to C$1,550 – depending on the month and whether it’s peak season.
Accommodation
The casino is part of St. Eugene Resort & Hotel which includes a 125-room hotel. 25 of the rooms are found in the historic Mission building and many feature a view of the Rockies.
With some notice, you can get a room for around C$240, otherwise, you’re looking at $315 for one night around the weekend.
Do you tip room service at Casino of the Rockies?
The hotel facility does not offer room service.
Are there smoking areas?
The casino and resort are smoke-free. You’ll need to step outside to smoke.
Security
CCTV cameras are clearly covering the casino facility, and the team were very professional during our visit.
Much of the parking areas are not supervised or covered by cameras, but with the location being so rural, security issues are highly unlikely.
Loyalty & Rewards – 5/5
How does the Casino of the Rockies rewards program work?
The Encore Rewards program is a free, multi-tiered loyalty program available at numerous casinos in British Columbia.
You’ll get a physical rewards card, or you can quote your Encore Rewards membership number when needed – such as getting a dining discount.
Free play is offered through a points-based system – for example, C$1 on slots is worth 1 point, while 1,000 points is worth C$5 of free play.
What you get
- 10-40% hotel discounts
- 10% dining discounts
- Exclusive casino promotions
- Free play
How to register in the program
- Go to Casino of the Rockies
- Head to Guest Services
- Ask to join the Encore Rewards program
- Complete the forms and provide your ID
- Receive your Encore Rewards card
Casino Atmosphere – 4/5
Inside Casino of the Rockies
Our experts analyzed the entire casino facility. This includes reviewing the interior design, casino floor experience, event options, and we provide details on the local surroundings.
Design experience
The casino facility is nature-themed with plenty of nods to the Ktunaxa First Nations.
Big light features provide the feeling of playing under the stars and the open plan provides a very spacious feel.
Are you allowed to take photos in Casino of the Rockies?
Yes, you can take photos in the casino. Security may ask you to not photograph any of the VLT table games though.
Location and surroundings
The views are absolutely stunning – green as far as the eye can see.
You’ll basically be at the base of the Canadian Rockies, separated only by the gorgeous St Mary River.
The casino also provides a shuttle bus with drop-off points around historic Cranbrook.
Do you need a passport to visit Casino of the Rockies?
Casino of the Rockies accepts several forms of photo ID including a passport, driver’s license, or government-issued ID.
Events
Regular live music is provided regularly, and the events are usually free. Music includes classic rock cover bands, country, and local artists.
House Rules (T&Cs) – 4/5
Casino of the Rockies opening hours
The casino is open 11 AM – 11 PM on Saturday to Thursday, and 11 AM – 1 AM on Friday and Saturday.
Does Casino of the Rockies charge entry?
No, entry is free.
Do you always need a reservation to play at Casino of the Rockies?
No, you can just turn up and play.
Is membership required at Casino of the Rockies?
Membership is not required but joining the Encore Rewards program is very beneficial.
Dress code
The official dress code simply requires “proper attire” including shirts and shoes.
This does seem to be intentionally ambiguous.
While you can dress casually, we recommend wearing smart-casual attire to be safe.
Standout rules at Casino of the Rockies
The rules are the same common rules you would find at any casino in Canada.
Player Feedback – 3.9/5
Casino of the Rockies has been reviewed over 280 times on Google and Tripadvisor.
Casino of the Rockies player reviews
Google – 3.9/5
Google reviews were quite old, but the latest review complimented the staff and security office.
Tripadvisor – 4/5
Many Tripadvisor reviewers were pleased with the cleanliness and spaciousness of the facilities. But recent customers were disappointed by the current table closures and some understaffing.
Most common issues
- No live table games
- Understaffed
Operator – 4/5
Who owns Casino of the Rockies?
The casino is owned by the Ktunaxa Nation and operated by SEM Resort Limited Partnership.
SEM has enjoyed a lot of success in the hospitality industry for over 15 years.
Contact info
Website | https://casinooftherockies.ca/ |
Email address | |
Telephone number | +1 877 417 2772 |
Other | Facebook, X, Instagram, Tripadvisor |
Casino of the Rockies Competitors
Online casinos in Canada still offer tons of gaming opportunities that compete with the 36 land-based casinos and community gaming centres in British Columbia.
Casino of the Rockies vs Cascades Casino Penticton
Located about 6-hours west of Casino of the Rockies, Cascades Casino Penticton is the next closed BC gaming option.
The casino offers more games than Casino of the Rockies with over 400 slots and high limit games.
Cascades Casino Penticton is best for table tournaments
The casino offers regular blackjack tournaments and weekly poker tournaments. Recent blackjack tournaments have been free to enter, and Bad Beat Jackpots are generous.
Casino of the Rockies vs Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino
Casino of the Rockies isn’t the only casino based at the base of the Canadian Rockies.
Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino is on the Alberta side offering several table games, exciting poker tournaments and over 200 slots.
Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino is the best alternative for casual table gaming
This casino offers low-limit table games which are highly accessible for casual players.
Head to Stoney Nakoda on Friday and Saturday to enjoy C$2 Blackjack.
What sets Casino of the Rockies apart from its competitors?
Casino of the Rockies offers a scenic First Nations gaming experience like no other. This casino truly reflects its First Nations community through Indigenous programs held at the Ktunaxa interpretive Centre.
Casino of the Rockies Pros and Cons
Pros
- Features major progressive slot networks
- Sensational resort in a beautiful setting
- Encore Rewards offers free play and discounts
- RV park provides affordable long-stay options
Cons
- Live tables are currently closed
Should You Visit Casino of the Rockies?
Offering an exceptional First Nations experience, plenty of resort activities, hundreds of games, and arguably the most scenic surroundings of any casino, Casino of the Rockies has a lot to love.
If you’re serious about your gaming though, you’ll need to keep your ears to the ground since table gaming is still closed.
However, there are plenty of huge jackpot slots, the mechanical e-roulette game offers a live experience, and the VLT table games still provide some card gaming options.