Articles about Fernie and Fernie Alpine Resort
Have you ever seen a dog riding a chairlift?
Have you ever seen a dog riding a chairlift? How about a dog skiing next to its owner? Or even crazier, a dog being long-lined under a helicopter? These are just a few of the skills that make avalanche dogs… Super canines!
Meet Mogul, a four-year-old German Shepherd who adores his ball and will do anything for fresh veggies. When Mogul isn’t falling asleep with a ball in his mouth or receiving never-ending attention, he also works as a Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog AND a Search and Rescue Dog. This means Mogul has a job all year round, making sure his handler, as well as anyone venturing into the backcountry, can play safe. So what exactly does it take to become an avalanche dog? To answer that question we caught up with Megan Kelly, Assistant Ski Patrol Director for us here at FAR, and companion to the amazing, Mogul.
Megan Kelly, Assistant Ski Patrol Director & Mogul’s handler
Preparation for the Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association (CARDA) certification begins when a puppy is just six months old. It starts with simple obedience training such as following commands, playing tug-of-war, and getting the dog to chase objects or people. It gradually progresses to the handler hiding and having the dog come find them. Eventually, they progress to open snow caves, where someone can hide, awaiting discovery. The snow caves go from being open to having closed off walls. The last step in the progression is using articles, usually, pieces of wool fabric saturated with human scent, buried under the snow. The dog eventually learns that in a real avalanche situation it is very unlikely they’ll have clues, so they need to rely on the scent of a human rising from under the snow to help find them. Finally, the dog is able to be given a command, like “search”, and will have the control to do their work and search for a missing person. The final test to complete certification requires the dog to search for 40 minutes, looking for two articles buried 75 centimetres under the snow to mimic a live person. CARDA certification takes a year and a half to complete and requires dogs to be tested every year in order to keep up their certification. Handlers are also tested every second year to make sure their skills are still up to date.
Mogul after completing a demonstration rescue.
So what can an avalanche dog achieve that aids in a successful rescue? Simply put, it would take a search and rescue team up to four hours or more to search one hectare of terrain. It takes an avalanche dog just thirty minutes to achieve the same results. With avalanche dogs being so quick, agile, and possessing a highly sensitive nose, they use their training to identify human scents and track it right to the source.
Fun fact time! Did you know that Fernie has the privilege of the first live rescue done by an avalanche dog in Canada? That’s right! In the early 2000s, Robin Siggers and his avalanche pup Keno recovered someone who had been caught in an avalanche in the backcountry without a transceiver. It was this circumstance as well as inspiration from other handlers in town that caught Megan’s attention. In describing why she decided to become an avalanche dog handler Megan said, “I was inspired by that working relationship, you know the fact that you can bring the dog to work. There’s also a chance you can really make a difference in someone’s life or you can save a life, I just wanted to contribute to that, and it’s a good way to volunteer.” Megan and Mogul are part of the 40 other volunteer search and rescue members in the valley and are on call 24 hours a day. There are two other full-time avalanche dog and handler teams, as well as a few part-time teams, who not only serve Fernie and area but can also be called provincially to aid in rescues.
But don’t think it’s all work and no play! According to Megan, Mogul is a best friend who receives all the best treatment. “Mogul really loves just being at the top of the lift at Bear top and just hanging out and saying hi to everyone. When he retires he’d like to be a Public Relations dog.” When the working vest is off, Mogul loves to bask in the attention of the public, but when the vest is on he’s much like a celebrity who has learned to ignore the praise of their adoring fans. No paparazzi, please!
Steve & Neko Photo Dave Watts
Steve Morrison, who is a member of the ski patrol team at FAR and handler to avalanche dog Neko, cautions the general public to be aware that avalanche dogs are working dogs. “…We want people to be friendly, but just at the right time. After I take his vest off is a good time, because otherwise, that’s the cue that the dog is working. I’m usually fine with people approaching the dog, as long as they ask me and maybe remove their skis or snowboard first…”
Speaking of meeting our super avalanche dogs, we are happy to be offering two demos to show off their stuff on February 23rd! Avalanche Awareness Day is coming your way, and it should come as no surprise that we’ve got plenty of fun and educational activities planned in the plaza and on the mountain. From 11 am to 2 pm we’ll have an Avalanche Awareness Information tent set up in the plaza. Don’t miss your opportunity to meet and watch our avalanche dogs in action, happening at 11 am AND 2 pm at the base of the Deer Chair. And finally, join us for an après fundraising auction in the Griz Bar, the proceeds of which go to Avalanche Canada to support their educational initiatives.
So why should you take the time to become more avalanche aware? According to Megan, the backcountry invites you to learn and discover. “The backcountry has given me so much in my life. I’ve learnt so much about myself, I’ve connected with nature, I’ve developed these cool skills by going into avalanche terrain in the winter. But I’ve done that by being avalanche aware and keeping myself safe, having the right gear and knowing how to use it. That’s opened up this whole world for me, which is why I encourage people to go ahead and become avalanche aware, so you don’t have to avoid that terrain if you don’t want to. You can engage in it and learn something about yourself.”
So whether you are shredding it up with us at Fernie Alpine Resort, or having an adventure in the backcountry, be aware and most importantly… Stay safe and play safe!
For more information on CARDA please visit here.
You can also watch the following informative video, and see a dog flying from a helicopter, by clicking here.
More information on Avalanche Awareness Day here.
To see Mogul in action click here.
Feature photo of Mogul by Abby Cooper
Family Day Weekend in Fernie
Hey, Family Day weekenders! Can’t decide what to do this weekend? Not sure what’s happening on the hill or in town? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Get ready for a blog packed full of fun and entertaining activities that you won’t want to miss!
Kicking off our weekend of greatness, we are bringing back a fan favourite for just one week only. Night skiing is back from February 16th to the 23rd, so you can keep hitting the slopes from 4 pm to 9 pm on the Mighty Moose. Night skiing comes with your purchase of a day ticket, or grab a night ticket at the rental shop after 4 pm. Riders under the age of 17 can pick up a night skiing ticket FREE! Speaking of fan favourites, we’re also bringing back some family fun activities from the holidays. Saturday is Ski Bingo day, so don’t forget to pick up your bingo card from Slopeside Café between 9 am, and 11 am. Ski a run on the card and snap a picture (preferably including the run name), then head back to Slopeside between 2 pm and 4 pm for your chance to win some sweet prizes.
On Sunday the activities continue, so why not take the family on a Scavenger Hunt? Pick up your list of clues at Slopeside Café between 9 
am, and 11 am, and then the hunt is on. Clues are located all over the base area and on the mountain, so when you find one, be sure to snap a selfie and post on our Facebook or Instagram using #lovefernie. When you’re done, head back to Slopeside between 2 pm and 4 pm where prizes will be waiting.
We’ve got plenty of opportunities to win some prizes this weekend! From 9 am on Saturday and Sunday, Summit Squad members will be on the mountain handing out some of our epic swag. Don’t forget to stop by the Summit Squad tent in the plaza and enter for the chance to win a Jeep. Also on Saturday and Sunday, stop by the Honeycomb Drop Into The Bowl Activation in the plaza and grab a bowl of their delicious cereal. You can also customize one of their stickers to sport on your skis or snowboard.
With all the fun happening at the hill, don’t forget our regular weekly activities specially tailored for the soloist, a group of friends, or the whole family. Enjoy a relaxing yoga class before you hit the slopes for an epic day of powdery delight. Guided yoga sessions are offered on Saturdays between 7:30 am and 8:30 am at the luxurious Lizard Creek Lodge. If you’re looking for an apres ski activity, why not join us on Saturday evening for an Uptracking Guided Tour?
From 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, skin up through a beautiful woodsy trail to the Bear’s Den, where a soothing warm beverage is served. Then make your way back down to Cirque Restaurant for a well-deserved cocktail. While you’re enjoying your cocktail, why not drop the kids off for a BBQ, pool party, and movie at Lizard Creek Lodge? This night of fun is fully supervised by our professional resort staff and is available for ages 6 and up. Join us on Nordic Sundays for an instructional tour of our beautifully scenic Nordic Trail System, offered between 2 pm and 4 pm. Pre-booking is recommended for all the above activities, which can be done by calling 250 423 2406 or by emailing [email protected].
Feel like heading into town? Enjoy a skate on our beautiful outdoor skating rink, open daily from daylight to 10 pm weather permitting. If you want to wind down after a full day of riding, the Fernie Aquatic Centre is the place for you, open on the weekends from 12 pm to 5 pm. For a spectacular display of local skating talent, head to the Fernie Memorial Arena at 7 pm on February 16th for the annual Skating Carnival. Tickets are available at the door. You can also join the Elk Valley Nordic Centre on Sunday starting at 10:30 am for a day of skating and cross country ski racing for all ages. You can pre-registration for the race here.
Whether you’re celebrating Family Day on the hill or in town, we hope your weekend is filled with lots of fun and laughter! Don’t forget to tag us in all your snow fun by using the hashtag #lovefernie on Facebook and Instagram!
Raging Elk Kinky Rail Jam
Calling all adrenaline junkies, fun seekers, and anyone who’s up for a little competition! Why not join us on February 9th for an event that’ll have you hitting the rails in style? That’s right! The Raging Elk Kinky Rail Jam is back, and this season we’ve made it even better with some exciting changes. So keep reading for all the details on our epic showdown in the rail park!
Now you’re probably wondering what we’ve done to change things up this season… We are excited to be announcing that the winners of each category will receive CASH prizes! You heard us right! The more entries into our jamming competition, the bigger the rewards. But we haven’t stopped there, competitors also have the opportunity to win some sweet draw prizes.
So how does it work? The competition is set in Jam Style, meaning instead of a specific number of runs, competitors have a set amount of time to showcase their best tricks. Hit the rails and boxes as much or as little as you want, as each run is, but only your best run is counted.
Why sign up for the Rail Jam? To answer that question we went to our resident Rail Park Attendant, James Rotor. According to James,
“The rail jam is all about trying to bring the park
culture back to Fernie, to push one another to be better riders, both snowboarders and skiers alike… I competed in my first rail jam last year, I’ve remained friends with most of my fellow competitors, and we continue to push each other in our riding today… The name of the game is fun!”
The competition is open to both snowboarders and skiers, and the categories include Men’s Ski 16+, Men’s Snowboard 16+, Grom Men’s Ski 15 and Under, Grom Men’s Snowboard 15 and Under, Women’s Ski, and Women’s Snowboard.
Waivers are required for all competitors, and any competitor 15 and under must have a parent or guardian sign their waiver. Helmets are cool, which is why they are absolutely mandatory for this event.
Competitors can also receive 20% off their left ticket the day of the event.
To sign up for our best Raging Elk Kinky Rail Jam yet, head to the Daylodge between 9:00am and 10:00am the day of the competition. The Rail Park will be open from 9:00am to 10:30am for practice, with a mandatory competitor meeting in the park at 10:45am. Then get your jam on at 11:00am when the competition begins. Don’t forget to head back to the Daylodge at 3:30pm for the Awards Ceremony.
For more information please visit our Facebook event.
- Published in Blog
A Colourful Staff Highlight
Did you know Fernie Alpine Resort has over 600 employees in the winter season? From skiers to snowboarders of any ability level, to anyone who just loves the snow, we have them all! With so many amazing individuals working with us, it was truly a monumental task to pick someone to feature in our blog, but for this post we went to the lift maintenance crew and caught up with Joey Kosolofski.
Joey, like the many others who visit our wonderful town, came for a season and ended up making Fernie his home. In the 2014/15 season Joey came to us as a lifty, caught the powder fever and has stuck around ever since, now working as an electrician in our lift maintenance department. When Joey isn’t working, he enjoys shredding it up on the new side, more specifically in Currie Bowl.
What’s a bucket list item for Joey? Heli-boarding in Switzerland of course! Because who doesn’t want to go heli-boarding, right? It’s every die hard snow enthusiast’s dream…
When asked who was Joey’s biggest hero, he didn’t hesitate for a moment in telling us it was his mother. She has a glowing reputation of getting people who are older or with restrictions to take pride in physical wellness and activity. By creating a program called Pathway to Wellness, she is truly rejuvenating her community one step at a time.
“Her pride and motivation in everything she does and her drive to make a change has always inspired me to do my best and take pride in everything I do, whether it is work or play.”
She sounds like she’d fit right in with the Fernie style, that’s for sure!
What else can we say about Joey? Well, how about mentioning his amazing talent as an artist?! Joey’s philosophy towards art is a “no rules” kind of approach. His passion for art was sparked at the tender age of ten years old, and was encouraged even further by his art teacher throughout high school. In describing his work, Joey says “I started with a lot of doodling, and then the painting aspect just naturally came along with that graffiti style of art, and now has developed into a vibrant rendition of landscapes and other abstract work.” Joey’s art is a magnificent combination of vibrant abstract colours and landscapes inspired by our mountainous surroundings. Perhaps due to the fact that he believes anything can be inspiration, people who know and recognize Joey’s artwork may describe it as “colour with motion”. Pictured in this post is a piece that Joey is most proud of, drawing inspiration from vibrant colours and his time spent fly fishing this summer, which has just found its forever home in Saskatoon.
How can you check out more of Joey’s incredibly unique artwork? We’re glad you asked! Keep a watchful eye at Fernie Alpine Resort, because you never know, Joey’s art just might make an appearance. But in the meantime, check out all his latest work by following him on Instagram @joeykozart.
- Published in Blog
International Women’s Snow Day
Hey, Ladies! Looking for something fun to do in the outdoors with your girls this Saturday? Well, look no further! We, at Fernie Alpine Resort, are excited to be partnering with SheJumps to bring you, International Women’s Snow Day. This special day, tailored just for you lovely ladies and girls, is packed full of activities, opportunities to learn, and the chance to give back.
Claire Smallwood -Co-Founder & Executive Director of SheJumps
Before we give you all the details, let’s talk about the powerful organization behind this event, and for that we caught up with SheJumps founder and executive director, Claire Smallwood.
A passion for skiing was sparked in Claire at the tender age of five, and from that point on she never looked back. Thanks to babysitting and mowing lawns, Claire’s passion for skiing turned into a fire that continued to burn all through high school. This eventually brought Claire and her friends, Lyndsey Dryer and Vanessa Pierce, to a life altering revelation. What if they took the often solo sport of skiing, and turned it into an opportunity to unite women in their passions?
“Our main idea was to recognize the gifts that encountering fear and fun in the outdoors had afforded us as individuals, and the desire to bring that magic to women and girls of every background”, said Claire when describing how they came to their vision. Through this simple question, a bright new organization was born.
So, what exactly is SheJumps? Simply, creating opportunities for women and girls to get together through outdoor activities. SheJumps hosts a variety of winter and summer activities, from skiing and snowboarding, fat biking, fly fishing, SUPing and surfing. But they don’t just encourage activity, they also give women the opportunity to learn new skills by offering training for avalanche education and certification, bike maintenance, introduction to navigation, group hikes, and ski and snowboard tuning events. This is all based on their unique concept of Jump In, Jump Up, and Jump Out, which not only encourages women to try something new and gain more skills, but also inspires them to pass on the flame to the next generation. Through the aforementioned adult programs, SheJumps is able to offer subsidized youth programs for girls 6 and up, which creates the same wonderful opportunities to experience, learn, and be empowered.
Keep your feet on the ground and your head in the clouds, above chaos and drama!
SheJumps also partners with community organizations to reserve 50% of their youth programs for at risk or low-income girls. Their dedication lies in empowering women and girls to “keep our feet on the ground and head in the clouds, above chaos and drama”, as their magical mascot, The Girafficorn, represents. SheJumps is all about fostering confidence, pushing through challenges, and inspiring the female community to get together and help others grow in their own journey.
Feeling all fired up? Why not bring your fire to International Women’s Snow Day on January 12th! This is a day to celebrate the power of women who come together and accomplish their goals. We have planned a day exploding with fun activities like morning yoga, first tracks, SheJumps women’s breakfast, a mountain tour, avalanche education, and of course, après ski!
Don’t ski but want to attend the day anyways? You are welcome to attend yoga, an 
inspirational breakfast with Claire Smallwood from SheJumps, and the après ski event. Whether you’re signing up for the whole day or participating in individual events, don’t miss the opportunity to unite with other women and share your passion. Thanks to SheJumps and International Women’s Snow Day partner K2 Alliance, you will also have the opportunity to bid on a sparkling new set of skis at the event, the proceeds of which will support the Junior Ski Patrol program that SheJumps is hoping to bring to Fernie in the spring.
You won’t want to miss this adventure filled day, so bring your girlfriends, coworkers, mothers, sisters, daughters, anyone else from the female community and come join us this Saturday and keep your eye out on social media for a special Instagram contest running during the day!
For a full schedule and how to sign up, please visit our website.
You can also follow the event on Facebook here.
- Published in Blog
Sleighing the Holidays with Fernie Alpine Resort
So, you’re planning a vacation to Fernie Alpine Resort, or maybe you’re trying to find fun activities while the kids are home from school, or you could just be looking to create some memories with friends. You might be wondering, what’s going on at the ski hill over the holidays? Well, it might be quicker to ask what ISN’T going on! Get ready for a holiday activity blog that’ll blow your stocking right off the fireplace!
Planning to sleigh (hehe, see what we did there?) the mountain on December 23rd and 24th? Join the big man himself as he shreds some pow between 10:00 am to noon. Santa will be enjoying his après ski cookies and milk in the Daylodge between noon to 2:00 pm, so don’t forget to check if you’ve been naughty or nice and snap a picture with him before his big night.
Jingle bells, jingle all the way, oh what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh, hey! We think horse drawn sleigh rides are a magical way to explore our very own winter wonderland! For only $15 per person, enjoy a scenic ride through Fernie Alpine Resort between December 21st and January 4th. Want to spread the holiday cheer with a bigger group? You have the opportunity to rent a private sleigh, available for a maximum of 11 guests. Hear the sweet jingle of our sleighs between 1:00 pm and 7:00 pm daily.
‘‘Tis the season for giving, so in true Christmas spirit we are hosting a multitude of fun family activities absolutely free! Starting December 26th and again January 2nd, Bingo takes to the slopes. Mark off every run you ski on your bingo card and snap a picture for a chance to win some sweet prizes. Do you like après ski drinks? Do your kids like decorating Gingerbread houses? On December 27th at Slopeside Café, with your purchase of a beverage between 2:30 pm and 4:00 pm, receive a Gingerbread house decorating kit free! One Gingerbread house per family while supplies last. But our artistic spirit doesn’t end there! Head back to Slopeside Café on December 28th and January 4th between 2:30 pm and 4:00 pm for even more creative fun. Receive a surprise arts and crafts kit to create a holiday memory you can take home with you (supplies are limited). Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, there’s more! On December 30th why not go on a photo scavenger hunt, taking place all over the hill. Between 9:00 am and 10:30 am, pick up a list of clues at Slopeside Café and then the hunt is on! If you find a clue, take a picture and post it on Facebook or Instagram with #lovefernie. Once you’ve found all the clues, head back to Slopeside Café between 2:30 pm and 4:00 pm for some epic prizes!
Want to wind down after a crazy day on the slopes? Join us for après S’morey Time on January 3rd at Slopeside Café between 2:30 pm and 4:00 pm, and be enchanted by the tale of the Griz and other great legends. More après ski activities and games you won’t want to miss will be taking place at Slopeside Café between December 26th and 30th, as well as January 1st through to the 5th.
Did you know Fernie Alpine Resort has supervised kids’ activities going on through the holidays? Well now you do! December 23rd, 24th, 26th through 30th, January 1st to the 4th, The Griz Kidz Activity Night will be hosting games, crafts, movies, and pizza. Drop the kids off from 5:30 to 7:30 pm on the top floor of the Mountain Pantry (entrance via Fernie Slopeside Lodge parking lot) and enjoy the evening, kid free!
Do you think shredding the slopes shouldn’t be limited to 4:00 pm? Neither do we! Which is why we are offering Night Skiing on the Mighty Moose December 22nd to 24th and December 26th through to January 5th.
We are anything but boring here at Fernie Alpine Resort, especially with great activities and events happening almost every day throughout the week! Saturdays on the hill are jam packed with loads of fun for all ages. Lizard Creek Lodge will be hosting a Kid’s Pool Party and Movie Night every Saturday, with a BBQ dinner thrown into the mix. Uptracking Guided Tours available every Saturday will take you through a beautiful forested trail to the Bear’s Den where delicious hot beverages can be had. Then after all that hard work and exercise, head back to Cirque and reward yourself with a cocktail. For a chill Saturday activity between 7:30 and 8:30 am, why not enjoy a Stretch and Warm Up at Lizard Creek Lodge before you hit the slopes? Nordic Sundays are fun way to spend your Sundays, enjoy a guided instructional tour on our beautiful Nordic trail system. On Tuesday enjoy a Snowshoe and Dine experience you’ll never forget, where a 1.5 hour guided snowshoe tour ends with delicious pasta and wine at Cirque Restaurant. Craving even more exercise? Try the fast paced and exciting Vinyasa Yoga from 5:30 to 6:30 pm at Lizard Creek Lodge. And finally, Ride and Dine on Thursdays with a 1.5 hour guided bike tour followed by burgers and beer at Legends Mountain Eatery.
Our fantastic Griz Kidz program continues on New Year’s Eve, where activities such as a pizza and dance party, games, snacks and a movie are happening all night long! Two options are available for this evening of fun; drop the kiddies off early at 6:00 pm, or drop them off a little later at 9:30 pm. This event is completely supervised by our Winter Sports School staff and runs until 12:30 am.
Help your kiddos develop their passion for sliding on snow by signing up for our Ski and Snowboard Camp, January 1st to the 4th!
Enter the New Year with a BANG by joining us in the base area for a multitude of family activities, followed by a wondrous fireworks display presented by TELUS! All activities are free and no reservations are required. But don’t stop there! Bring in the New Year with a party at Cirque Restaurant with local band, Cold Cuts! The Griz Bar is ringing in 2019 with live music from our favourite New Year’s Eve band, the Todd Band, and Legends Mountain Eatery will be bringing in a party like it’s 1999!
Phew! So much to do and so little time to enjoy it! From all of us at Fernie Alpine Resort, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Check out the full holiday schedule by clicking Holiday Events at FAR 2018-19!
For Guest Services contact: 250-423-2435 or [email protected]
For Winter Sports School contact: 250-423-2406 or [email protected]
There’s Nothing Like It
The act of sliding on snow is a mystical experience. It is a romance that only those captivated by its spell can truly understand. It can go beyond infatuation, beyond addiction, beyond reason, and in some cases, beyond the realm of impossible. It connects us to ourselves, it connects us to each other, it connects us to nature. Once you are drawn in, it is a lifelong passion. We sought out a variety of individuals, united by the love of sliding on snow, to find out just what gets their hearts beating this season.
PC: Scott Courtemanche
The coming of a new season will rekindle the flame for adrenaline junkies and fun-seekers alike. An unmistakable flame resides in the heart of Greg ‘G-Money’ Barrow, a man whose local fame needs no introduction. Greg is a magnetic character whose Southern Swagger is iconic. Why G-Money? In the days of his youth, Greg delved into the world of basketball; and when making a shot the crowds would chant ‘MONEY!!’ Not what you expected hey…?
With the concept of carrying ski poles being a put off, G-Money took to snowboarding in 1982, and after traveling across North America he took the advice of his friend and hero, Craig Kelly, and opened Fernie’s local snowboarding haven Edge Of The World. Why build a whole lifestyle around snowboarding? “Because of the feeling,” said Greg as he flashed his charming smile. “You can’t get that feeling anywhere else.” So, what makes G-Money stand out from the crowd? Besides sporting the latest and greatest snowboards, Greg holds 18 consecutive first chair victories at Fernie Alpine Resort. We could tell you what it takes for Greg to snag first chair every year, but we are sworn to secrecy by The Griz himself. We CAN tell you only a snow-lover could commit themselves the way Greg has. Even though Greg wonders if a brave challenger will ever present themselves, his title still goes undefeated and at the grand age of 70 he once again found himself the first in line on opening day this season.
PC: Scott Courtemanche
What makes a group of 10 and 11-year olds leave the comfort of their beds at 5:00 a.m. on a Saturday? The hope of winning first chair at Fernie Alpine Resort does! This season we have to highlight the spirit and enthusiasm of brothers Will and Ben Johnson and friend Tain Prentice, who were sitting proudly with G-Money on first chair. Only slightly less enthusiastic, Ben and Will’s father, Mr. Johnson, described the new season as “The Year of the Dad” and is very pumped to be giving his well-deserved new skis a try. He went on to say, “There are a lot of reasons why I love skiing, but the elimination of distraction and just being able to let work and life go, being able to crank it up and feel the wind on your face. I don’t know, there is nothing else like it.” Lined-up on opening day were hundreds of skiers and snowboarders who felt the same and were eager to welcome in a new season.
PC: Scott Courtemanche
But what happens when chasing a feeling becomes a matter of life and death? Caleb Brown, a born and bred local and avid skier, knows these consequences all too well. Caleb starts his account ominously by saying, “We thought it would be fine, even though there were signs that it wasn’t.” March 21st, 2017, Caleb was caught in an avalanche that flung his body down a mountainside for over a kilometer. Having luckily lived to tell the tale, no one would have been surprised if he had given up skiing forever. But for Caleb, the sport is more than just skiing, it’s an addiction to adrenaline that dictates his every move. “There’s nothing like it,” Caleb said with a sparkle in his eye. “It is as close as you can get to flying without ever leaving the ground.” For Caleb, nothing brings him more joy than being on skis, in the woods, with snow falling around him. The feeling Caleb chases was too valuable to leave behind, so the season following the avalanche he found a new perspective and passion – skiing bigger lines than he has ever skied before. This season will look a little differently for Caleb, knowing he can hit those lines is finally enough, as in the end what really matters most is that he is here to continue to experience what he loves with his friends and family by his side.
PC: Scott Courtemanche
The intoxicating feeling of sliding on snow is something that can be felt and appreciated at any age. Someone who was brought up skiing will often have family or friends who have cultivated that seed, as was the case for Krista Turcasso. Krista was taught to ski at the early age of 3 years old by a close family friend. Though originally involved in ski racing, Krista’s interests were turned to all-mountain skiing and the draw of finding solitude within white snowy peaks. The almost hypnotic feeling of floating on powder is something Krista finds exhilarating, but not to be overshadowed by experiencing skiing through the eyes of her daughters. Some of the many reasons why Krista enjoys time on the mountain include, “Creating that passion…Skiing is something you can have for a lifetime. To create something my family can do together and to see the girls get so excited about… [pushing] themselves to accomplish something – there’s nothing like it.” Krista, who taught her daughters to ski from the tender age of 18 months old, goes on to describe one of her favourite memories as watching her daughter discover powder for the first time and the absolute thrill of her disappearing skis! Krista and family are very excited for the season and all the adventures and memories they will create this year.
So, what’s the big deal about sliding on snow? As the snow enthusiasts throughout our blog have said, “THERE IS JUST NOTHING LIKE IT!” We can’t wait to see how you will celebrate SNOW-FUN with us this season! What made you fall in love with skiing or snowboarding? Let us know in the comments below!!
September Bonus Weekend #4
Closing time, every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end… it’s time to shut down operations and start preparing for the upcoming winter season (2 months and 3 days, but who’s counting?). Join us September 29 & 30 for Bonus Weekend #4 and help us make our closing weekend a Legendary one!
Don’t miss out on seeing the beautiful array of reds, oranges and yellows before the alpine gets covered in that white powdery stuff that we all love. Ride the Timber Chair between 10:30 am – 4:30 pm and take in those final hiking & biking adventures. While you’re up there, enjoy a tasty lunch and a refreshing bevie (or maybe a hot cup of cocoa) at Lost Boys Café.
Dust off your retro bike, dig out your retro gear and get ready to send it for the last downhill race of the season. The Retro Mountain Bike Race takes place on Sunday, September 30 at 2 pm on the lower section of Deer Trail. Register at the Adventure Centre between 12 – 1 pm. Entry fee is $10 and includes a post-race beverage at Legends Mountain Eatery and loads of prizing for fastest times in each category, best retro costume, best decorated bike and awesome door prizes!
Although the lifts are coming to a halt, it doesn’t mean the fun has to. We have a new lineup of events to look forward to in October and November at the resort:
New this fall:
A Legendary Oktoberfest is coming to Fernie Alpine Resort on Saturday, October 6! Dress in your best Oktoberfest outfit and join us in the plaza for the afternoon beverage gardens, open to all ages. Guaranteed to be good times with great music from DJ Goffles, craft beer, fun games and crazy contests for both kids and adults! Then it’s onto the Griz Bar for the adults for a delicious German buffet dinner while being entertained by live Oompah Band, European Touch. It doesn’t end there… more fun ensues during the after party – more music, contests and of course more beer!
Learn about your body and mind health during the You and Your Body Wellness Retreat October 23 – 28 at Lizard Creek Lodge. Three world-class therapists will give you the tools to explore your potential through unique movement and innovative body therapies. Your retreat package includes 10 group classes focused on mind and body wellness, guided nature walks, accommodations, healthy meals and a self-care welcome kit. This event is almost sold out so make sure your book your spot before it’s too late!
New for the kids this October – The Griz Kidz Halloween Party & Haunted House! Dress up your little monsters (and yourselves) and join us on Sunday, October 28 as we transform the Day Lodge into a mystical manor of fun, full of ghoulish games, creepy-crawly crafts, and awfully-fun activities. Step inside our spooktacular photo booth for a family photo then take a wander downstairs and enter our haunted basement if you dare…(mwahahaha)
Returning this November:
Join Yogi, Gordana Gigovic as she leads you through an all-inclusive weekend to recharge your mind, body and soul during the Fall Yoga Retreat November 2 – 4 at Lizard Creek Lodge. Package includes yoga lessons, nature walks, all meals and accommodations.
Huge shout out to everyone who visited us up on the mountain this past season and adventured along our trails…. we’ll see you soon. Now who’s stoked for winter?!
Photo Credit: Gui Boutet
September Bonus Weekend #3
Waking up to the snow-tipped Three Sisters is exciting and maybe less exciting is digging out your scraper to clear the frost off your windshield… but we all know this can only mean one thing – winter is coming. However, it’s not too late to get in some autumn action with two more Bonus Weekends left in September!
With the Timber Chair running on Saturday & Sunday from 10:30am to 4:30pm, you still have time to take in the beautiful sights and explore your favorite hiking and biking trails.
Gather your friends and go on the *Peak to Park to Pint Bike Tour, challenge them to a *Treetop Aerial Park adventure or book a *Guided Nature Hike. Don’t forget to bring your camera! As we move into fall, the changing of the season is bringing a gorgeous array of yellows, oranges and reds to the mountain and to the valley – it’s a stunning sight to see.
We also have something special planned for Bonus Weekend #3 – Lizard Creek Lodge and Cirque Restaurant are proud to be hosting Lobsterfest September 21 – 23! The weekend includes accommodation at Lizard Creek Lodge, lobster themed meals, a guided nature hike, and a lobster demo on how to cook and shuck a lobster.
Are you a local Fernie Foodie? We have a special dinner date for you! Enjoy an evening of amazing food and live entertainment on Saturday, September 22. Fresh Maritime lobsters are being flown in for a delicious three-course dinner prepared by our talented chef at Cirque Restaurant. It will be the Lobsterfest of all Lobsterfests!
There’s only two more weekends left of operations – don’t miss out on the awesome line-up of fall activities happening at the resort!
*Advance booking is required. Please book at least 48 hours in advance by calling 250-423-2435.
September Bonus Weekend #2
It’s all downhill from here until Bonus Weekend #2! Fall fun continues with the Timber Chair running from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm on September 15 & 16.
Scenic Dinner at Lost Boys Cafe – September 15
Have you ever had dinner on top of a mountain? Here’s your chance! Join us on Saturday, September 15 at 4:00 pm for a delicious Mountain Top BBQ dinner at Lost Boys Café. Guests will take a scenic chairlift ride up the Timber Chair and be treated to a special BBQ meal prepared by our chefs. After dinner, take in the stunning views of the Elk Valley from the Lost Boys Café deck. The Timber Chair will be available for downloading from 6:15 – 6:45pm. Reservations are required and must be booked in advance by calling 250.423.2435. Visit our website for more event details by clicking here.
Retro Mountain Bike Race – September 16
Dust off your old retro mountain bike, dig out your retro bike gear and get ready to race down a section of Deer Trail on Sunday, September 16! Registration will take place from 12 – 1pm at the Adventure Centre and the race will start at 2pm. Entry fee is $10 and includes a post-race bevie at Legends Mountain Eatery along with loads of great prizing including fastest times in each category, best retro costume, best decorated bike and door prizes! Click here for more information on the race.
In addition to our special events, here’s a list of the other activities happening around the resort:
On Mountain:
- Put on your hiking boots and explore your favourite hiking trail on the Timber side
- Get in your two-wheeled fix and take a rip down our Legendary bike trails
- Snap some photos of the beautiful autumn colours as they take-over the valley in the changing of the season
At Lizard Creek Lodge:
- Recharge with some Saturday morning yoga from 8 – 9 am
- Send your kids on a nature hike and BBQ from 5 – 7:30 pm
In the Plaza:
- Don’t miss out on all the savings – the End of Summer Blowout Sale continues this weekend at the Adventure Centre
We know you love the summer and winter months but now’s your chance to FALL in love with the mountains in September.
Photo credit: Nicole Matei
