First Trail Crew Update of 2024
Summer is almost here, and excitement is in the air at the resort as we gear up for our Opening Day on Saturday, June 22nd. Our trail crew of 7 team members has been hard at work since mid-May, inspecting the trails as the snow receded up the mountain. With the trails now mostly snow-free, our crew has been making great progress.
We’re thrilled to announce the unveiling of our new trail, “Leave Me A Loam,” a fresh hand-built line in the forest branching off Lower Rumplestumpskin. It’s definitely a must-see this summer!
Our pre-season trail work plans include a number of projects, including creating new entrances to
Alternate Flight Pattern and Duff Dynasty, as well as machine work rebuilds on Top Gun and the
Lower Top Gun
Rockstar tree island. We’re also putting the finishing touches on the Lower Rumple flow section that connects to CBD, and of course, there will be lots of trail tune-ups to ensure an amazing experience for all our guests.
This week, our crew will be heading up the Timber Side to start their trail inspections and trail work. We’re eagerly anticipating the return of the Timber Chair to our summer operation!
Stay tuned for more updates as we prepare to kick off an incredible summer season on the trails.
Happy trails!
Fernie Alpine Resort – Summer NEWS
| Even though the mountains are still a blanket of whiteness, biking, hiking, and summer fun are on our minds.
We are stoked to announce that our lifts (yes, that’s plural!) will be spinning this summer for lift-accessed biking, hiking, and sightseeing. Opening Day is set for Saturday, June 22, only a few short months away! The Elk Chair will operate daily (open late on Thursdays) and offer downhill bike trails for novices through experts, as well as a wide variety of hiking trails and Nature Bob’s Interpretive Centre. NEW this summer – the Elk Grove Forest Playground! This new playground is an adventure-filled ground-level playground located at the top of the Elk Chair. It promises to be a unique, fun-filled experience for kids and families.
Bike races return with the Fernie BC Cup / Canada Cup DH Race (Dunbar Summer Series) on July 6 & Our Summer Mountain Adventure School will be offering all the favourites – Kids Mountain Adventure Camps, Kids Freeride Bike Camps, Adult DH Clinics, and Specialty Guided Hikes are all back on the summer schedule for 2024. Stay tuned to our website and our social media for details on all of our programs, events, and early bird season pass sale information! |
More exciting news – the Timber Chair will be open for biking, hiking & sightseeing this summer – Saturdays (starting July 13th), along with Holiday Weekend Sundays (Aug. 4 & Sept. 1). The Timber Chair accesses awesome advanced / expert technical downhill terrain (2150 vertical feet!), as well as spectacular alpine hiking and sightseeing. Lost Boys Café (located at the top of the Timber Chair) will be the place to be on Saturday afternoons this summer, enjoying a cold drink and grooving to the tunes at our Music On The Mountain events.
7 and our popular weekly SCOTT Race Series (presented by Dakine). This year, Youth, Adults and Masters will race on Thursday Nights, with the Kids racing on Wednesdays, alongside an exciting new category, ‘Intro to Racing’. If you’re new to the world of racing, our Downhill Development Series offers a welcoming and laid-back environment suitable for all ages, ensuring a fun-filled introduction to the thrill of racing.- Published in Blog, Fernie, Press Releases, Summer
Bucking the Trend: Polar Peak, Where Skiing Gets Wild!
Fernie, BC – While the resort ski industry is embracing the “easy does it” mantra, our friends up north in Canada are throwing caution to the wind, and it’s all happening at the legendary Polar Peak at Fernie Alpine Resort.
Polar Peak has always symbolized awe-inspiring heights, towering 7,000 feet above sea level with a hair-raising vertical descent of 3,550 feet. But things have taken a radical turn this year – we’ve said goodbye to the notion of an “easy” way down. Forget about those comforting cat tracks and groomed slopes; they’re old news.
Instead, picture this: a permanent snowcat perched at the Peak, ready to pounce into action at the first sight of fresh powder. This means quicker openings after epic snowfalls, giving you more opportunities to rip down the untouched terrain. Polar Peak has transformed into a snow beast that’s always hungry for more powder, and it’s here to satisfy your cravings for steeps, speed and excitement.
But that’s not the only ace up our sleeve – we have six triple black diamonds and 16 double black diamonds – promising an adrenaline-packed experience.
This is not the place for the faint-hearted. It’s a high-octane adventure for the adrenaline junkie in you. Polar Peak is untamed, unpredictable, and unapologetic in its approach. With no groomed slopes, no cat tracks, and no hand-holding, you have to be ready to tackle steep terrain and conquer ever-changing snow conditions. This is the real deal, where Mother Nature reigns supreme, and you’re just a visitor in her domain.
While some ski areas might make it easier for everyone, we’re ramping up the thrill factor. Buck the trend and embrace the wild side of skiing on Polar Peak. It’s a rollercoaster ride on snow that’s edgier, steeper, wilder, and more unforgettable than ever before. So, grab your gear, summon your courage, and prepare for an adventure like no other – Polar Peak is where skiing and riding get wild!
See more here – The Guide to Polar Peak.
Check out ‘From the Peak’, a video following the remarkable skiing of Dave Keenan as he makes his way from the top of Polar Peak to the base of Fernie Alpine Resort. It was expertly filmed via drone by Dylan Siggers, a native of Fernie who honed his filming and skiing skills in these very mountains.
From the Peak is available now on on Fernie Alpine Resort’s Youtube Channel. Fernie Alpine Resort will open for the winter season on Saturday, December 2nd.
Youtube • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook
Fernie Alpine Resort
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For more information, please contact:
Matt Mosteller
Senior VP Marketing & Resort Experience, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies
[email protected]
Instagram, Facebook & Twitter – @PowderMatt
Powder Matt’s Blog
- Published in Press Releases
Fernie Alpine Resort Opening Day This Weekend!
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- Published in Press Releases
RESORTS OF THE CANADIAN ROCKIES JOIN THE EPIC AUSTRALIA PASS
STARTING WITH THE 2023/24 SEASON, EPIC AUSTRALIA PASS HOLDERS WILL RECEIVE FIVE COMBINED DAYS AT THE RESORTS OF THE CANADIAN ROCKIES
- Epic Australia Pass Holders will receive five combined days at the Resorts of the Canadian Rockies – including Fernie Alpine Resort, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and Kimberley Alpine Resort in British Columbia, Nakiska in Alberta, and Mont-Sainte-Anne and Stoneham in Quebec – starting with the 2023/24 Northern Hemisphere winter season.
- 19 April is the last chance to purchase the 2023 Epic Australia Pass for AU$1,049 before prices increase.
5 April 2023 – Epic Australia Pass Holders will now have more access to world-class resorts in Canada, starting with the 2023/24 Northern Hemisphere winter season. Vail Resorts announced today that the expansion of its long-term alliance with the Resorts of the Canadian Rockies (RCR) will include five combined days of skiing and riding for 2023 Epic Australia Pass Holders. Pass Holders can use the five combined days across any of RCR’s six resorts — Fernie Alpine Resort, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and Kimberley Alpine Resort in British Columbia, Nakiska in Alberta, and Mont-Sainte-Anne and Stoneham in Quebec.
“Get ready to experience the ultimate snow adventure as we welcome Epic Australia Pass Holders to the majestic Resorts of the Canadian Rockies,” said Rob Lloyd, Director of Sales & Marketing – Australia, Vail Resorts. “With the addition of Kicking Horse and Fernie, your bucket list just got bigger and more exciting. The Epic Australia Pass gives you unlimited access to Perisher, Falls Creek, Hotham, and a chance to carve your way through the breathtaking slopes of Whistler Blackcomb and beyond.” Lloyd continued, “Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make unforgettable memories in some of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations!”
Discover the Resorts of the Canadian Rockies
The 2023 Epic Australia Pass access begins with the 2023 Australian snow season and concludes following the 2023/24 snow season in the Northern Hemisphere. It provides:
- Kicking Horse and Fernie: Located in the southeast corner of British Columbia on the legendary “Powder Highway”, Kicking Horse and Fernie are consistently ranked among the top 10 Canadian resorts with abundant annual snowfall and big mountain skiing and riding.
- Kimberley Alpine Resort: Boasting the most sunshine of any resort in Canada, Kimberley Alpine is in the Purcell Range of Southeast British Columbia, with two-thirds of its 80 runs and glades rated beginner or intermediate in addition to expert terrain on the back side.
- Nakiska: A family-friendly resort offering a variety of terrain, including perfectly groomed runs and a very popular learning area, Nakiska is positioned in Kananaskis Country in the front range of the breathtaking Canadian Rockies.
- Mont-Sainte-Anne: An ideal year-round destination, Mont-Sainte-Anne is situated near beautiful Quebec City within the Laurentian Mountain chain.
- Stoneham Ski Resort: Offering an incomparable freestyle area, Stoneham has Canada’s largest illuminated ski centre for night skiing.
Purchase Now Before Prices Rise
Skiers and riders have until 19 April to get their Epic Australia Pass before prices rise. The Epic Australia Pass offers unlimited days at Perisher, Falls Creek, Hotham and more, and benefits including six Bring-A-Mate tickets, 20% off lessons and rentals, 15% off retail and more.
Currently priced at AU$1,049 for adults, AU$599 for students (five to 17 years) and AU$799 for seniors (65 years and over), 2023 Epic Australia Pass lift access starts with the 2023 Australian snow season and concludes with the 2023/24 snow season in the Northern Hemisphere. Find out more here.
The Epic Australia Pass is non-refundable except through Epic Coverage, which provides refunds for certain qualifying events and is provided at no additional cost. Refunds are subject to eligibility and based on Epic Coverage elections. Pass Holders should review the Epic Coverage Terms and Conditions.
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ABOUT VAIL RESORTS, INC. (NYSE: MTN)
Vail Resorts is a network of the best destination and close-to-home ski resorts in the world including Vail Mountain, Breckenridge, Park City Mountain, Whistler Blackcomb, Stowe, and 32 additional resorts across North America; Andermatt-Sedrun in Switzerland; and Perisher, Hotham, and Falls Creek in Australia. We are passionate about providing an Experience of a Lifetime to our team members and guests, and our EpicPromise is to reach a zero net operating footprint by 2030, support our employees and communities, and broaden engagement in our sport. Our company owns and/or manages a collection of elegant hotels under the RockResorts brand, a portfolio of vacation rentals, condominiums and branded hotels located in close proximity to our mountain destinations, as well as the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Vail Resorts Retail operates more than 250 retail and rental locations across North America. Learn more about our company at www.VailResorts.com, or discover our resorts and pass options at www.EpicPass.com.
ABOUT RCR
Proudly Canadian, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies Inc. (RCR) is the largest private ski resort owner/operator in North America, owning six ski resorts across Canada including: Nakiska Ski Area in Alberta; Fernie Alpine Resort, Kimberley Alpine Resort and Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in British Columbia and Mont-Sainte Anne and Stoneham in Quebec. In addition to the company’s ski resorts, RCR also owns and operates a number of accommodation properties, golf courses and a central reservation agency. The consumer website is www.skircr.com.
- Published in Press Releases
Fernie Alpine Resort Extends Winter Season and adds Spring Celebration Events
Fernie, BC – We’re continuing the celebration of our 60th Anniversary for Fernie Alpine Resort by extending the winter season closing day to Sunday, April 17th.
“As March is usually our snowiest month, we invite you to keep your powder skis ready, your sunblock handy, spring carving skis set to go and most importantly, enjoy our spring weekend events. Celebrate our ski and ride community, and 60 years of snow loving fun!” says Matt Mosteller, “We are grateful and thankful to all who have shared their passion for skiing with us for 60 years! A special shout out to all of our team, friends and family who live in Fernie and don’t forget to thank the Griz as well”, added Mosteller.
We’re looking good for spring, keeping the spirit of skiing alive into middle April. Plan now to book your ski and stay package so you don’t miss spring events – including live music and après parties.
Mountain Pop Up Tour with Shred Kelly – March 26th – more information
Fernival – April 9th & 10th
Live Music from Stage Fright and Live Wire on Saturday and local band “Hark Raving Sirens” will be playing on Sunday, both will be in the Plaza and a free live show for all ages. Tentatively our annual Powder, Pedal, Paddle event will be held on Sunday.
Book your accommodations for Fernival with this package.
Get more information on both events on our Events Calendar.
Fernie Alpine Resort • Vacation Deals • 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 & Instagram – @PowderMatt
Powder Matt’s Blog
- Published in Press Releases
New season, new systems!
New season, new systems!
How to smooth out your first day on the slopes.
Well, here we are!
We’ve made it to another ski season during a pandemic, and while some regulations will stay the same as last season, we are also dealing with a few new ones. Here are some guidelines to help make your first day out in the mountains as smooth as possible for you and your family.
Request your Season Pass or Direct to Lift Card in advance
If you have purchased a season pass, you should have received an email requesting your upload your QR code/proof of immunization online. Please upload your information and request your pass be sent to you as soon as possible. Ensuring your pass gets into our printing queue as soon as possible allows you the best chance of receiving your pass ahead of your first visit. If you have not received your email requesting proof of immunization, please feel free to reach out to our guest services team to request one by emailing [email protected]. If you have requested your pass but have not received it before your first day, you will need to visit the resort Guest Services building to receive a day ticket and show proof of immunization. If you are having problems with our system accepting your Proof of Immunization, please refer to our FAQ’s to find out why.
Mind our Know Before you Go updates
While many of our guidelines have stayed the same, a key update this season is the requirement to be fully vaccinated to access our resort lifts and facilities. Please refer to the information above on how to provide this ahead of your visit.
Bring your QR Code on your first few visits.
To ensure we have a record of your information, we encourage you to have your QR Code and government-issued photo id with you on your first few trips. If you purchase day tickets, you will need to show proof of immunization when picking up your lift tickets each time you visit.
Limit your baggage and prepare for a few lineups
We will not be allowing bags to be stored unattended in our daylodge or common areas. Please ensure you’re leaving any unnecessary baggage in your car or your pre-purchased locker. While requiring proof of immunization should help alleviate some lineups at our lifts and facilities, please note that some people may still choose to stay distanced from others; we ask you to respect the wishes of those around you.
Be kind
As always, we ask you to be kind to our fellow guests and also our staff. Please realize our front-line staff are working hard to ensure you enjoy your experience and share your passion for the mountains. Let’s all work together to make our mountain experience an enjoyable one.
6 breathtaking views and awesome adventures you won’t believe are less than a days drive from Calgary
If you live in Calgary, you’re actually pretty lucky to! Being able to live in a beautiful urban area surrounded by gorgeous mountains is certainly something to be thankful for. On top of the views, being so close to seemingly endless outdoor adventure and activities are an accolade many cities don’t have to brag about. If you’re looking for outdoor fun while maintaining social distance, here are a few suggested short staycations to consider.
Fernie, B.C
Views from town and the top of the mountain
Our first location is one that is already many Calgarians’ favourite short trip to make, Fernie, B.C. An easy 2.5/3 hour drive from the south end of Calgary along the Cowboy Trail you’ll drive right into Fernie’s town site, where you are literally surrounded by mountains on all sides. Continue through the town to Fernie Alpine Resort and you will not be disappointed. The views of the Lizard Range from the base of Fernie Alpine Resort are breathtaking enough, but by taking a ride on the Elk Chairlift you’ll get a view of the valley of Fernie, B.C that can’t be matched.
Golden, B.C
Hiking & Via Ferrata at Kicking Horse
Continuing on, let’s go to Golden, B.C, home to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and just a 2.5 hour drive from Calgary’s north side. One of the unique aspects of Kicking Horse is the view of 6 National Parks from the peak of the mountain. And guess what, the peak of the mountain is easily within your reach! Kicking Horse has gondola accessed hiking and dining that offer some of the most stunning views you’ll find. And if you’re looking for something a little more to get the adrenaline pumping, the views from Via Ferrata are intense not just due to the views but due to the fact that you’re dangling off the side of a mountain or the suspension bridge (all while harnessed in of course).
Kimberley, B.C
Hiking & Biking
People love to describe Kimberley as a hidden gem in the rockies – and that’s exactly what it is. You’ll need to turn off the main highway to find this town but trust us, it’s worth the time. Not only can you hike up the ski hill at the resort to take in some of the gorgeous views of the town from the top of the mountain, but Kimberley, like the others above have an array of trail networks in and around the towns. One of the places that is a must do while in Kimberley is the short walk to the Marysville waterfalls, it’s another one of those hidden gems you don’t expect to find so easily and is definitely worth the short trek out to it!
Places to stay along the way
Even though you can easily visit any one of these towns and get back to Calgary in a day, staying overnight is always a nice option to have!
✅ Gorgeous slopeside mountain views
✅ Outdoor patios & in hotel restaurants offering take out
✅ Outdoor pools & hot tubs
✅ Close to all activities & adventures
✅ Convenient and safe – all our suites have full kitchens
Both of our feature properties at Fernie Alpine Resort and Kimberley Alpine Resort feature all of the above, making either location a great basecamp for your quick getaway or longer staycation.
See special offers at Lizard Creek Lodge
See special offers at Trickle Creek Lodge
We realize this can be a difficult time to consider travelling, before heading out on your trip check on the Alberta & British Columbia government website for any guidelines or restrictions at your time of travel. To see what safety procedures and routines we have put in place visit our resort or hotel websites.
Fernie Alpine Resort COVID information.
Feature Photo by Powder Matt
Fernie Alpine Resort Announces Fernival 2020 Headliner
Fernie, BC – Fernie Alpine Resort knows how to throw a season ending party to remember and Fernival 2020 will be no exception. It kicks off with the longstanding, locals’ favourite – the Raging Elk Powder, Pedal, Paddle relay race on Saturday and finishes with the Coca-Cola Slopesoaker , while live music all weekend ramps the party up
The resort is excited to announce the headlining band for this year’s event will be Dehli 2 Dublin! Playing a FREE show in the plaza on Saturday afternoon, their unique and catchy beats they’re sure to bring a infectious high energy feel to the plaza.
It all goes down on April 11th & 12th! Book your getaway now and make sure you’re here for the Dehli 2 Dublin show!
Fernie Alpine Resort • Vacation Deals • 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 & Instagram – @PowderMatt
Powder Matt’s Blog
- Published in Fernie, Press Releases
Bonus Weekend in September
Fernie, BC – It has been another great summer at Fernie Alpine Resort, with our daily summer operations closing on September 2nd. But wait, we have one more Bonus Weekend for you to get the most out of your Fernie summer, join us for the final summer weekend on September 7th & 8th.
Saturday, September 7th
The 10th Annual Tears & Gears event from 9am – 1pm, a trail running & mountain biking duathlon! Enter for yourself or as a team of two, plus there is a kids category! More information & registration details are on our events calendar.
Elk Chair will be open from 1pm – 5pm for Mountain Biking, Hiking, Sightseeing & Nature Bob’s Interpretive Centre – twilight rates for lift tickets are in effect!
Aerial Park is open – tours must be booked in advance, contact the Adventure Centre for your spot at 250-423-2435 or email [email protected].
Sunday, September 8th
The Pop Up Fernie Mountain Market will be at the resort from 10am – 2pm! The Pop Up Market will be set up in the plaza at the base area and features locally grown food and local artisans.
Elk Chair will be open from 10am – 5pm for Mountain Biking, Hiking, Sightseeing & Nature Bob’s Interpretive Centre.
Aerial Park is open – tours must be booked in advance, contact the Adventure Centre for your spot at 250-423-2435 or email [email protected].
For more information on activities, events and hours please see our website or social media channels;
Fernie Alpine Resort • 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 & Instagram – @PowderMatt
Powder Matt’s Blog
- Published in Press Releases
