Fernie and Fernie Alpine Resort Winter Season
Family Fun in Fernie
Our timing was perfect. Just as the sun slipped behind the Lizard Range and a band of clouds flared with hot-red glow, we dipped our toes in the hot tub and settled in for a pre-dinner soak. The cold bevvies, the laughter, the lively conversation that covered everything from face-plants to bark tattoos; it was the perfect way to rehash the day, do some sky-gazing, and connect with the kids. Ah yes, family time and Fernie. If you ask me, it’s a match made in heaven.
Our family of eight (four boys, a yippy dog, and a sly cat) have been darting out of dodge (Calgary) and blazing a trail to the mountains (typically once a month) for nearly two decades. And, to be clear, we go all over. Any mountain town, any shack or shanty, any resort or riverside retreat, will do. But we always seem to go back to one particular place a little more often than the rest. Fernie!
Sitting snug in the Elk Valley just two-and-a-half hours southwest of Calgary in the Kootenay Rockies, Fernie is a fun-loving mountain town that just seems to tick all the boxes. It’s not overly big, it’s rarely crowded, the local folk are friendly, the ski hill is close to town (and it’s phenomenal), the trail networks for hiking and mountain biking are world-renowned, and the historic downtown is peppered with cool cafes, restaurants, craft breweries and distilleries, amazing art and architecture, funky stores, bike shops, and so much more.
Also, the outdoor adventure opportunities are easily adapted for families and kids of any age and skill level. So, in other words, expect a ton of variety when it comes to trails, ski runs, and so on. For example, when it comes to mountain biking (Fernie is often regarded as one of the best mountain biking towns in the world), you’ve got everything from double-blacks for the daredevils to easy riverside paths for people who simply want to recreate at a slow and easy pace.
Not surprisingly, whenever we head to Fernie, we typically spend a ton of time up at the Fernie Alpine Resort, which is fast becoming one of the top summer mountain resorts in Canada. (Thanks to some of the lightest and deepest powder on the planet, the winter skiing at the resort has been in the “legendary” class for decades.)
If you venture to the Fernie Alpine Resort this summer you can expect stunning new lift-accessed alpine hiking trails, machine-made mountain biking flow trails for every level, and plenty of fun, food, and festivities in the village area.
Our favourite place to hunker down in the village area is the Lizard Creek Lodge. It’s located right at the base of the Elk Chair and features classic Canadian Rockies timber-framed architecture, an amazing restaurant in the main lodge, underground parking, and, yes, a heavenly hot tub overlooking the mountains where you can relax and unwind (with you and yours!) in style.
- Published in Blog, Fernie, Real Estate, Summer
Trail Crew Update: Spring Prep is Underway!
Spring is finally doing its thing, and the snow on the lower mountain has melted back enough for our trail crew to get to work! As the snowline continues to retreat up the mountain, our trail crew has officially hit the ground running to prepare for an awesome summer of riding.
Elk Side Trails: Inspected and Noted for Maintenance
With the lower mountain now mostly clear of snow, the team has been able to access and walk the majority of the Elk Side trails. Each one has been carefully inspected, with notes taken for upcoming maintenance, improvements, and repairs. This early prep work is essential to ensuring a smooth, fun, and safe ride for opening day.
Rakes, Shovels, and the Mini-Hoe
The crew kicked things off last week, focusing on raking out debris, reshaping corners, repairing erosion, and smoothing out wear and tear from last season. It’s hands-on, dirty work—but our team wouldn’t have it any other way.
Looking ahead to next week, we’ll be bringing in the mini hoe to help with heavier machine work on key sections. This will allow us to speed up progress and ensure everything is dialled in just right for a smooth summer flow.
Please Stay Off the Trails Until Opening Day
We know it’s tempting to get out there early, especially with the sunshine calling—but all trails are currently closed until our official opening day on June 21st. Riding on soft, unmaintained trails can set back the hard work underway and delay opening. Help us out by respecting the closures so we can open with trails that are safe, smooth, and ready to rip.
Mark Your Calendar: Opening Day – June 21st, 2025
We can’t wait to welcome riders back to the mountain. Until then, keep those bikes tuned, the stoke high, and we’ll see you soon!
—
The Fernie Alpine Resort Trail Crew
Fernie Timber Landing – Redefining Après-Ski
There’s just something to be said for waking up in the mountains, looking out your window and knowing you can simply walk up to the lifts for first tracks. Years of setting that alarm to go off long before the sun comes up, loading all the gear into a frozen car, scraping the windshield and navigating the busy highway are but a distant memory now. Leave your car parked, grab your board or skis and jump on the slopes just steps from your front door. This is just one of the perks of being situated at Fernie Timber Landing.
New lots have just been released in a highly sought after area adjacent to Fernie Alpine Resort. Located in the SE corner of British Columbia along the powder highway, the area offers year round recreation and relaxation. If you have kids, you’ll definitely appreciate being able to duck back into your own home to top up on a hot chocolate, or a bite of lunch. We have three at different stages of learning to ski, and being that close opens up all kinds of opportunities to make sure everybody gets to do what they want during the day.
When the lifts stop spinning in the afternoon or those leg muscles start asking for a rest, après ski takes on a whole new meaning at Timber Landing. Rock up to your beautiful home, ditch the ski gear and slip into the hot tub to take in the views. No more loading the roof rack, driving home in your wet clothes, and getting back just in time to make dinner. Slow it down, grab a book and a glass of wine to sip on the patio, or sit by a crackling fire in your cozy living room with your kids to play a board game.
There’s something for everyone at Fernie no matter the season, which is probably why we’re out there so often. Aside from skiing/boarding in the winter, you also have great shopping, yoga and spa options, snow shoeing, hiking, cross country skiing, and fat tire biking just to name a few. Quiet mountain lakes, strolling through towering cedar trees, or dipping your toes in Lizard creek, you can do it all. Take a stroll along the historic downtown sidewalks, popping into the many boutique stores to get anything from locally made art to your next pair of powder-slaying downhill skis or even a cruiser bike to enjoy the many paths in and around town. Grab a bite of Neapolitan style pizza on the Loaf patio and follow it up with a uniquely crafted cocktail at Fernie Distillers before making your way back to your mountain home. Time to watch the sunset from your patio, wrapped up in a blanket on the couch as the clear skies reveal the stars overhead.
When the long sunny days of summer start giving way to the crisp air of the fall, it should be no surprise that scanning the hill for your favourite dirt berms turns to dreaming of the legendary champagne powder and bluebird days in the winter months ahead. Enjoy the afterglow, listen to the birds and make the best of each day as you make new memories in the Elk Valley. This and a lifetime of other adventures can be yours at Timber Landing.
Photos & Words by Mark Eleven Photography & Lemons for Days
- Published in Blog, Fernie, Real Estate, Winter
Tiny Turns, Big Confidence: A Parent’s Guide to the Griz Kids Centre
At 8:45 AM on a snowy New Year’s Day, we entered the Hall of Fame hallway at Fernie Alpine Resort, ready to drop off our 3-year-old, Sylas, for his first full day at Griz Kids Centre. Tucked between Legends Restaurant and Slopeside Café in the Cornerstone Lodge, this cozy, welcoming space promised a day of learning, laughter, and maybe even a few tiny turns! (See resort map here).
The Program: Fun, Safety, and Ski Skills
Griz Kids Centre caters to tiny adventurers aged 3 to 5, combining the excitement of skiing and snowboarding with the comfort of a licensed daycare facility. With half-day programs available, we chose the full-day package, which included two one-hour semi-private ski lessons, and opted for the snacks and lunch add-ons.
Indoor Fun Meets On-Snow Progression
The indoor play area was an instant hit! With plenty of toys, a quiet corner with books, a nap space, and even a mini bowling lane, he excitedly ran inside and immediately started playing.
The proximity to the Moose Learning Area, featuring a magic carpet and platter lift, made lesson transitions seamless. Sylas was paired with the same instructor for both lessons, which helped build a sense of trust and familiarity. With a 2:1 student-to-coach ratio, his instructor tailored activities to keep the lesson fun and engaging.
Exceptional Care and Communication
Halfway through the day, we got a call from the Griz Kids team. Sylas, still mastering potty training, had an accident. I had forgotten to pack extra clothes, but the staff reassured me they’d taken care of it, even washing his clothes and providing a spare outfit. Their attentiveness and understanding were a huge relief, and we were able to continue to ride without stressing!
Parents Paradise
While our little guy enjoyed his day, my partner and I carved out time to explore Fernie’s legendary powder. Knowing he was in great hands allowed us to fully enjoy our runs and even squeeze in a leisurely lunch at the Cirque Restaurant. When Sylas wrapped up his second lesson, his little shred crew was there to greet him with big smiles and high fives. Fuelled by their stoke, he couldn’t wait to keep riding with them!
Why Griz Kids Centre Is Worth Every Penny
For families, the Griz Kids Centre is a game-changer. It’s not just about skiing; it’s about building confidence, independence, and a love for the mountains. The combination of professional instruction, attentive care, and engaging playtime made it a highlight of our Fernie ski vacation. Sylas had the time of his life, and so did we.
Local to Fernie? The Griz Kids Centre isn’t just for visitors—it’s also a fantastic option for local families. Whether you’re looking to give your little one a fun introduction to skiing or need a safe and enriching space for them while you get in some solo laps, the Griz Centre is here to make your ski days stress-free. Plus, midweek visits mean smaller group sizes and a more personalized approach—perfect for locals looking to take full advantage of this incredible resource.
Tips for Parents:
- Pack Extra Clothes: Even if your kiddo is potty-trained, accidents happen.
- Book in Advance: Spots fill up quickly, so reserve early, especially in peak season.
- Communicate Special Needs: The staff is accommodating, but a heads-up about allergies or specific preferences is always helpful.
- Trust the Process: The staff are pros at making kids feel comfortable and excited.
- Celebrate their Accomplishments: Wrap up an epic day of learning by treating your little shredder to a cake pop from Slopeside Café.
If you’re heading to Fernie Alpine Resort with little ones, trust me—this is the way to do it! Book your child’s spot at Griz Kids Centre by emailing [email protected] or phoning +1 250-423-2406.
- Published in Blog, Fernie, Winter, Winter Sports School
Connecting with Community through Fernie’s Winter Programs
Beyond the pristine powder of Fernie Alpine Resort lies a community where the slopes aren’t just for skiing but for forging lifelong friendships and unlocking personal potential. Whether you’re a beginner seeking guidance or an experienced rider looking to connect with like-minded individuals, Fernie offers programs tailored to your needs.
As an ambassador for Resorts of the Canadian Rockies and dual-certified ski and snowboard instructor, I’m here to share insights to help you elevate your riding experience and connect you with this vibrant community!
Tip 1: Seek Your Tribe
Discovering the right crew can elevate your time on the mountain. Seek out groups and programs tailored to your interests and skill level. From all-mountain programs to freeride initiatives, Fernie presents a diverse range of options for skiers and snowboarders seeking community and progression.
Tip 2: Find the Right Program Fit
Fernie boasts group programs such as Ladies Shred, Early Girls, and the Breakfast Club, ensuring everyone feels at home in this stoked community. Ladies Shred welcomes skiers and snowboarders of all levels, while Fernie’s Early Girls programs and Breakfast Club cater specifically to advanced and expert riders. Led by Lucy, the ladies’ snowboard programs aim to bridge the gender gap in freeride competitions and empower women of all ages.
“I was so lonely until I joined this group,” shares member Ashley, reflecting on her experience since joining Early Girls in 2019. Beyond honing their skills on the mountain, these women have formed bonds that transcend the slopes. With levels 5 and 6 required for participation, the Early Girls program provides a supportive environment where riders can grow, connect, and thrive.
Tip 3: Embrace Personal Growth
Skiing and snowboarding are about more than just technique—they’re journeys of self-discovery. Release the pressure of comparison and judgment, focusing instead on your personal goals and aspirations. With expert instructors and tailored programs, Fernie offers the ideal environment for riders to challenge themselves and thrive.
Tip 4: Set Goals and Achieve Them
Define your riding objectives and pursue them with determination. Whether you’re aiming to master carving techniques or conquer challenging terrain, Fernie’s programs offer structured guidance and measurable markers of progress. From private lessons to group clinics, there’s a pathway to success for every rider.
Ready to take your riding to the next level?! Contact the winter sports school and immerse yourself in a community built on passion, camaraderie, and growth. Step outside your comfort zone, embrace the journey and experience the thrill of progression in one of Canada’s most iconic ski destinations.
Brush & Saw Crew Update… it’s a Big One!
Our dedicated Saw & Brush Crew have been busy since May, turning the mountain into your ultimate winter playground. With their hard work—and a little help from our trusty mower cat this fall—the slopes are looking better than ever, ready to deliver top-notch early-season snow coverage and smoother runs for everyone.
Check out the updates below to see what’s in store for this winter. And don’t miss the loooong list of runs that got some serious TLC this year!
Falling Star / Hells Gate
We’ve undertaken significant work to improve the terrain flow and accessibility in this area. By widening the Hells Gate section and reworking the flow, we’ve created an easier-to-maintain, more accessible exit from Siberia Bowl and a smoother intermediate run. A new exit off Fred’s Corner now offers a safe route during avalanche closures, and we’ve expanded the area from one groomer pass to six, making this section a premier groomed run.
Siberia Ridge
Deep Sea
The entry from Deep Sea has been widened and regraded, offering more accessible and inviting skiing and riding.
Dancer / Lower Cascade
Significant grading work has been done to allow earlier snowcat access to this area, which will provide guests with earlier season access.
We can’t wait for you to experience these exciting changes this winter – the mountain is looking fantastic! 😊
| Currie Bowl | ||
| Currie Powder | Hand Mowing | |
| Currie Creek | Hand Mowing | |
| Down Right | Hand Mowing | |
| Timber load/RV slope | Hand Mowing | |
| Gilmar | Mower Cat/ Hand Mowing | |
| S Bends | Hand Mowing | |
| Mid Diamond Back | Hand Mowing/hoe | |
| Barracuda | Hand Mowing | |
| Cedar Bowl | ||
| Cruiser | Hand Mowing | |
| Lower Cruiser | Mower Cat | |
| Blueberry Signline | Hand Mowing | |
| View trail | Hand Mowing | |
| Cedar Center | Hand Mowing | |
| Gorbi Bowl | Hand Mowing | |
| Lower Cedar Center | Hand Mowing | |
| Snake | Hand Mowing | |
| Red tree | Hand Mowing | |
| Emily’s | Mower Cat | |
| Spruce Lee | Mower Cat | |
| Timber Bowl | Highline Entire | Hand Mowing |
| Heartland | Hand Mowing | |
| Timber Top Traverse | Hand Mowing | |
| Deep Sea | Hand Mowing | |
| Quite Right | Hand Mowing | |
| Timber Trail | Mower Cat | |
| Silver Lining | Hand Mowing | |
| Black Cloud | Hand Mowing | |
| Surprize | Hand Mowing | |
| Timber lift line | Hand Mowing | |
| Timber Trail | Hand Mowing | |
| Lower Surprize | Mower Cat | |
| I Bowl/ Upper Highline | Hand Mowing | |
| Timber Liftline | Mower Cat | |
| Lizard Bowl | ||
| Dancer | Hand Mowing | |
| China Wall | Hand Mowing | |
| China Might | Hand Mowing / Mower Cat | |
| Boomerang Ridge | Hand Mowing | |
| Wallaby | Hand Mowing | |
| Bear Cub | Mower Cat | |
| North Ridge | Mower Cat | |
| PS – Deep Space | Hand Mowing | |
| Kodiak | Hand Mowing | |
| Boomerang | Hand Mowing | |
| Kodiak | Mower Cat | |
| Bear | Mower Cat | |
| Lower Bear | Mower Cat | |
| Ballet | Mower Cat | |
| Lower Ballet | Mower Cat | |
| Stag Leap | Hand Mowing | |
| Sky Dive | Hand Mowing | |
| Decline | Hand Mowing | |
| Freeway | Hand Mowing | |
| Giggly Gully | Hand Mowing | |
| Boom Ridge | Mower Cat | |
| Linda’s | Mower Cat | |
| Lower Mountain | Meadow | Mower Cat |
| Incline | Mower Cat | |
| Lizard | Mower Cat | |
| Elk | Mower Cat | |
| Holo Hike | Mower Cat | |
| Downhill | Mower Cat | |
| Deer | Mower Cat | |
| Bambi | Mower Cat | |
| Lower Diamond Back | Mower Cat | |
| Elk Lift Line | Hand Mowing | |
| Power Trip | Hand Mowing/Hoe/Dozer | |
| Silver Fox | Mower Cat | |
| Silver Fox/Rail Park | Hand Mowing | |
| Holiday | Mower Cat | |
| Siberia Bowl | Hells Gate Sign Line | Hand Mowing |
| White Rabbit | Glading | |
| Freds Corner banks | Hand Mowing | |
| Fallout | Mower Cat | |
| Falling Star | Mower Cat | |
| Fred’s Corner to Hells Gate | Hand Mowing | |
| Hells Gate | Hand Mowing | |
| Top of Siberia Ridge | Hand Mowing | |
| Lower Siberia Ridge | Mower Cat | |
| Dirt Work | Falling Star | |
| Sib Ridge | ||
| Gilmar | ||
| Dancer |
Short Skis & Big Slopes – A Family Ski Vacation at Fernie Alpine Resort
In our family, the word Fernie is synonymous with fun. We have been going to this amazing little town nestled in the SE corner of British Columbia long before we had kids. Aside from world class skiing, you can snowshoe, fly-fish, camp, golf, bike, hike, run, paddle, float, spa, shop, and dine just to name a few options. Needless to say, we’re pretty fond of the place and every trip there is a one-of-a-kind adventure.
For us, winter means skiing, and of all the hills we could choose from, we always gravitate to Fernie Alpine Resort. It has a massive amount of terrain suitable to every level & age of skier from the magic carpet & night skiing up to the black diamond runs off Polar Peak. The greens more your speed? There’s a fantastic crew of instructors is also ready to help you get the most out of your time. Having so many options from your front door makes for the perfect Canadian family winter vacation destination. I’ve been skiing here for 40 years, and I still discover unknown powder stashes.
Gearing up for a family trip to Fernie includes road snacks, ski gear, snow jackets, pants, boots, mitts,
etc. Now that we are packing for five including three kids 7 & under, we have developed a pretty good system to ensure that everybody brings what they need to have the best time in the mountains. Taking a peek at the forecast is the first order of business to make sure we bring the thick coats and extra layers for the cold days, and light gloves and sunscreen for the warm spring afternoons. Although adults can tough it out with cold wet mitts, when it comes to kids the key to winter happiness is making sure they stay warm and dry. Hitting up the outdoor fire pit for a mid-day hot chocolate break never hurts either.
Our kids are still pretty new to the slopes, but no stranger to playing outside for hours on end in the snow. Our go-to have been Kombi mitts for years and have found them to be the best option for our busy family. The added bonus is knowing that it’s a family-owned company who knows a thing or two about Canadian winters. Top off your gear bag with an assortment of synthetic fleece & merino wool layers and a windproof shell to give you plenty of options, and keep you outside to take full advantage of what this place has to offer.
The big pow trips of December to early March give way to long sunny runs in late March and April. A spring ski trip out to Fernie is the best combination of cruiser days, patio afternoons, and super chill evenings. We lucked out with four bluebird days in this Kootenay gem and had the best of both worlds staying right on the hill at the fully equipped ski-in ski-out Lizard Creek Lodge. Being slope side is a huge advantage when getting out with kids by taking parking and gear shuttling out of the equation. After a day full of turns, ducking into one of the multiple outdoor hot tubs and heated pool is a must both for us and the kids.
Although it’s hard to pin down what makes Fernie a perfect winter getaway, there’s just something to this little town in the Elk Valley that brings us back time and time again. It’s a short drive from Calgary through the rolling eastern slopes of the rockies, and has every amenity you could hope for while still being small enough to check out on foot. Cruise the historic main street, shop the boutique stores, fuel up at the restaurants and definitely swing by Fernie Brewing to see what they have on tap to top up your growler. Fernie simply has something for everyone.
You know you are somewhere special that you start planning your return trip the very moment you leave. Fernie, we’ll be seeing you again soon.
Words & Photos by Mark Eleven Photography
Win a Trip to Fernie!
Win a Ski Trip for Two to Fernie Alpine Resort! 
Flights for two (courtesy of Gendron Ski)
7-night stay at the stunning Lizard Creek Lodge 5 days of ski lift tickets (thanks to Fernie Alpine Resort/RCR)
Airport transfers (by Tunnel49)
$150 gift card from Tourism Fernie to use at participating restaurants
$1,000 Kombi gift card for all your winter accessories!
Contest dates: October 14 to November 3, 2024.
Fernie Adventures – Play Here, Live Here
At 8:15 AM I opened the flap on my tent, gazed up at a gilded peak shimmering with heaven-sent light, and saw my buddy, Drew – a little black blob on the massive mountain – nearing the unnamed summit. Not gonna lie, it was a little unsettling. He wasn’t exactly a seasoned mountaineer with goat-footed skills. But he was determined. And the night before – as we nursed a dram, or two, by the crackling fire – he confidently announced his intentions for the following morning: “I WILL climb that thar mountain before anyone is out of bed.” Hat’s off. He did it.
Fernie. It certainly has a knack of bringing out the adventurer in all of us.
Surrounded by jagged peaks and nestled along rushing rivers in the Elk Valley – and just 2.5 hours from Calgary! – Fernie is a dreamy destination for outdoor enthusiasts and mountain culture lovers. Hikers, mountain bikers, fishermen, painters, climbers, musicians, photographers, nordic skiers, alpine skiers, and everyone else in between, can find their happy place in Fernie!
In addition to all of those trails, rivers, and scintillating summits (more on my epic Heiko’s Trail
expedition later), Fernie’s historic downtown, which boasts some spectacular turn-of-the-century buildings and architecture, is always a highlight when you visit. The majestic Fernie Courthouse, which was built in 1911, is a chateau-style structure and one of my favourite buildings in the Kootenay Rockies. The Holy Family Catholic Church, City Hall, and the old CP railway station are a few other examples.
Personally, I’d highly recommend downloading the “Iconic Fernie” app on your phone (the app was developed by Tourism Fernie), which will guide you through a cool downtown heritage walking tour, best photography locations, top places to sample local food and drinks, and artistic explorations in and around town. (Thanks, in part, to the Arts Station, a number of galleries, the downtown murals, ongoing performing arts, and so on, Fernie is a haven for artists.)
Due to its close proximity to Calgary, I typically visit Fernie a handful of times each year. Sometimes I’m just passing through (I can never resist pulling into the downtown area to explore, stretch my legs, and grab a coffee and a sandwich!), but most of the time it’s for a weekend of adventure.
While the mountain biking (Fernie boasts eight distinct riding areas and hundreds of trails) is legendary, the two main reasons why I love hanging out in Fernie are the incredible alpine skiing at the Fernie Alpine Resort and the epic hiking.
Although the sight-seeing and lift-accessed mountain biking at the Fernie Alpine Resort are exceptional, in my opinion, the alpine bowl skiing – there are five fabulous bowls at the resort – is some of the best on the planet. Indeed, from the snorkel-deep dumps to the family-friendly cruisers, the skiing at Fernie is
tough to beat.
And, for that matter, so are the hiking opportunities. Numerous trails – from leg-burning ascents to family-friendly riverside strolls – are there for the taking.
For me, one of my all-time favourite hiking experiences took place a number of years ago when my posse of pals took on the tough-as-nails Heiko’s Trail in the Fernie backcountry. (It’s not for the faint of heart! Be prepared. Do your homework!) A 34-km wilderness route complete with caves, thundering waterfalls, and wildflower-filled valleys, it serves up an amazing assortment of “wow” moments. On our two-day adventure, which ended at the iconic Island Lake Lodge, we were all pushed to the limit of our abilities.
Fittingly, we celebrated our achievement with a burger and a beer at Island Lake Lodge. In many ways, we all – especially the guy who tacked on an additional summit! – felt like accomplished adventurers. Fernie will do that to you!
New lots are available at our Timber Landing development. Visit our website for more information or get in touch with our realtor Carol Cohen.
Carol Cohen
Developer’s Representative for Timber Landing Sales
[email protected]
250-278-0678
- Published in Blog, Fernie, Real Estate, Summer, Winter
The Sweet Spot; when it comes to density, Fernie Alpine Resort does it just right—in more ways than one
In scientific terms, snow density is measured by water volume. Heavy snow tends to have about 15 to 20 percent water content, and really light snow is less than 10 percent. That’s the stuff we like as skiers—the cold smoke that lets us feel like we’re dancing on air. Because any skier worth their salt knows that not all powder is created equal, and there’s a tradeoff wherever you go searching for it. To get a lot of it, you usually have to go places like the Coast Mountains, where it’s thick and punishing. To get the lightest snow, you usually have to go to locales like the Okanagan or the eastern slope of the Rockies, where average annual snowfalls tend to be less forthcoming, and you wrestle with deep freezes. But there’s one place in British Columbia where that tradeoff doesn’t exist. Where up to 37 feet of snow falls some years in a temperate micro-climate draped across the dramatic fetch of the Rocky Mountains. This is not just where you’ll find the most snow, but also the lightest version of it—along with the exact right density of people.
The visionary founders of Fernie Snow Valley knew this in 1962, when they took a chance on building lifts in a little mining town wedged against the Southeast border of B.C. and Alberta. And in 1997, when Resorts of the Canadian Rockies bought the quiet little ski hill that was the biggest secret in the province, they also knew what they were doing. Since then, Fernie Alpine Resort has been far from a secret, but it has stayed true to its roots. Only three hours from Calgary, Alberta, it’s close enough to an international airport to have exploded into Vail or Aspen. Instead, it has settled into a confident sweet spot as the ski industry’s biggest “locals” mountain, primarily servicing the extended Fernie community from Calgary to Lethbridge to Cranbrook, and even Montana.
It’s the only destination-class resort in Western Canada that’s not concerned with being a destination—it remains first and foremost a playground for those who know it best. Whether you’re hammering powder runs on the Timber Chair, or pounding DH laps in the bike park all summer, you’ll be doing it with familiar faces. That’s what defines this resort: community.
Homeownership at Fernie Alpine Resort doesn’t just tap into world-class biking, hiking, sight-seeing, and skiing along the proud peaks of the Lizard Range, but an extended family of like-minded, part-time small-towners looking for the exact right mix of amenities and energy, without going overboard. It’s an investment in lifestyle that pays dividends, with a slow steady growth in value that’s not subject to the boom-and-bust cycles of crazy new promises or massive overnight changes.
Becoming a homeowner at Fernie Alpine Resort means buying into a community that’s been what it is for generations, where fishing and folk festivals, and kids camps and bar bands, take precedence over planet-shaking events and lineups full of strangers. Where Italianate architecture still hosts restaurants filled with friends that always have a seat for you. Where there’s an intimate flow to life that just feels right. Because the best density isn’t always the most saturated one; it’s the one that lets you move unimpeded in a shared rhythm that still feels all your own.
New lots are available at our Timber Landing development. Visit our website for more information or get in touch with our realtor Carol Cohen.
Carol Cohen
Developer’s Representative for Timber Landing Sales
[email protected]
250-278-0678
- Published in Blog, Fernie, Real Estate, Summer, Winter
Navigating Fernie’s Bike Park as a Newbie
Ready to try downhill mountain biking but feeling uncertain about where to begin? Fernie’s bike park offers the perfect blend of excitement and accessibility, making it an ideal location for those who are new to the sport.
With the electric buzz of opening weekend, now is the perfect time to dive into mountain biking at Fernie Alpine Resort. The energy is high, and the trails are in prime condition, offering excellent traction. Here’s how you can join the fun and ride with confidence, even if you’re new to downhill.
Start Slow: Pre-Ride, Re-Ride, Free Ride
The cardinal rule of mountain biking is to Pre-Ride, Re-Ride, and Free Ride. Take your time, especially on the first day of the season and your first runs on unfamiliar trails. Your body and brain need time to adjust to your bike and assess your abilities.
Conquer the Elk Chair Lift
Don’t be afraid to ask for help when loading your bike onto the Elk Chair lift. The lifties are there to assist, and there’s no shame in seeking their support. They are trained to teach you how to load your bike correctly and safely. The Elk Chair moves quickly, and getting your back tire up on the hook can be tricky. Embrace the assistance; it’s what they’re there for.
Fuel Up and Ride On
While riding up the chair lift, take a moment to snack and hydrate. Once you’re off, grab your bike and head to the right for your pre-ride run on Mr. Berms. This fun trail is a fantastic warm-up to gauge your riding skills. While it’s rated as a blue trail, it’s an excellent introduction with its series of berms and rollers. Stay focused and take your time.
Remember, go easy on the front brake in the turns and you’ll be able to slowly navigate your way through them with control.
Dive into Duff Dynasty
After Mr. Berms, you’ll find yourself in Duff Dynasty—a gentle, smooth trail winding through a picturesque cedar forest. It’s perfect for beginners, offering twists, turns, rolls, and bridges.
Explore Other Green Trails
Fernie offers several green trails like Lil Miss Buffet, Eville, and Honey Bee. Although they’re designated green, these trails will challenge you due to their technical nature. Honey Bee, for example, features a gentle singletrack through the forest with wide bridges, roots, and tight corners—ideal for honing your bike handling skills.
Challenge Yourself with Top Gun
If you’re feeling adventurous, tackle Top Gun—one of Fernie’s most loved trails. It’s fast with flowy berms and jumps, but all features can be rolled over, making it a great option for riders with varying skill levels.
Ready to Ride?
Don’t let intimidation hold you back! Take your time, enjoy the ride, and remember every expert started as a beginner. If you’re still not confident, consider taking a lesson at Fernie’s Mountain Bike School, where you can build your skills in a supportive and welcoming environment.
