The Legend of the Powder Highway Kicks Off Ski Season

As the legend of the Powder Highway comes to life once again, our teams across the mountain are putting the finishing touches on early-season preparations. With new snowfall in the forecast, now’s the perfect time to start those snow dances. We expect to share additional opening day details on Thursday. Please keep an eye on the Snow Report for the latest updates.

Fernie will be one of the first resorts along British Columbia’s famed Powder Highway to open, kicking off another season of steep, deep skiing and riding.  “Our teams have worked incredibly hard to get the mountain ready for opening day,” says Mark Ormandy, General Manager, Fernie Alpine Resort. “A big thank-you to everyone who skis and rides with us. We’re grateful for the continued support of the Fernie community and proud to play a key role in the valley’s long-standing skiing and riding traditions.”

Please remember that early-season conditions exist, and ease into those first turns of winter with care.  Check out our Snow Report for the latest updates.

Book your winter vacation to Fernie Alpine Resort!  Packages with big savings are available like 4th night free and 25% off all lift tickets booked with accommodations.
View and book packages on our website.

Summer Slope Enhancements: A Better Experience for All Abilities

Fernie Alpine Resort continues to invest in terrain improvements designed to enhance safety, flow, and accessibility across the mountain.

“Fernie is known for its steep and deep terrain, and these latest enhancements are about making that legendary experience more accessible to a wider audience,” says Mark Ormandy. “By addressing pinch points, improving sightlines, and enhancing flow in key areas, we’re elevating both safety and operations to deliver a smoother ride for all abilities.”
“At the heart of these projects is the guest experience,” Ormandy adds. “From brushing programs to terrain modifications, every improvement is designed to support confidence—whether it’s a first-time skier finding their stride or an expert chasing Fernie’s famous deep snow.”

Key On-Mountain Improvements

Brushing & Mowing Program
•    Extensive brushing from May through to snowfall, including Lower Big Bang, Gilmar Gully, and KC Chutes.
•    Mower cat work on lower-mountain terrain to support early-season access and snow coverage.

Terrain Enhancements
•    Improvements to beginner and slow-skiing zones off the Deer Chair, including enhanced sightlines and flow.
•    Widening and smoothing of pinch points in Gilmar and sections of Cedar Bowl to support grooming efficiency and guest safety.
•    A new run in Cedar Bowl connecting North Ridge to Haul Back for improved terrain connectivity.

Griz Bar & Mountain Pantry Refresh
•    Griz Bar: new bathrooms, air conditioning, and upgrades to support year-round events.
•    Mountain Pantry: refreshed counters, signage, lighting, racking, and expanded product offerings.

Lost Boys Café Expansion
•    Renovations connecting the front deck to the wrap-around deck for more space, better guest flow, and improved access to mountain views.
Rental & Service Shop Upgrades
•    Addition of a new infrared waxer to enhance tuning efficiency and quality.

Mountain Operations & Infrastructure
•    New avalauncher for increased avalanche-control capacity.
•    New toilet at Boom Load for guest convenience.
•    New centrifuge at the Wastewater Treatment Plant to improve efficiency and environmental sustainability.
•    Two new snowcats expanding grooming capabilities.
•    Signage and visual upgrades, including improved wayfinding to support guest flow and reduce wildlife interactions.

More About Fernie Alpine Resort
With 146 runs, more than 30 feet of annual snowfall, and 3,550 vertical feet, Fernie offers terrain for every ability level.

Fernie Alpine Resort • Snow Report • Facebook • Twitter • Instagram

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For more information, please contact:
Matt Mosteller
Senior VP Marketing & Resort Experience, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies
[email protected]
Twitter, Facebook & Instagram – @PowderMatt