THE GUIDE TO POLAR PEAK
Welcome to Polar Peak, Fernie Alpine Resort's most exhilarating and challenging skiing and snowboarding destination.
This guide will provide valuable information to help you navigate this complex and ever-changing environment.
Polar Peak proudly stands at a breathtaking 7,000 feet (2134 meters) above sea level, offering an impressive vertical descent of 3,550 feet (1052 meters) from its peak to the base. This awe-inspiring landmark opened to the world during the winter of 2012 as part of Fernie Alpine Resort's 50th Anniversary celebrations, quickly becoming the ultimate destination for seasoned skiers and snowboarders who crave the ultimate thrill.
Prepare yourself for an extraordinary adventure like no other. Polar Peak is an exclusive domain for experts, featuring 22 runs, of which 16 are designated as Expert (double black diamond) and 6 as Extreme (triple black diamond). The terrain's allure lies in its raw and untamed character; there are no cat tracks or easy descents to rely on here.
This Guide intends to prepare you for a safe, exhilarating adventure - and one that you can talk about with friends and family at the greatest après bar in the world, the legendary Griz Bar.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
All runs off Polar Peak are extremely steep, exposing you to intricate and high-stakes terrain, including cliffs, drops, ice, rocks, and ever-changing snow conditions. The risk of an uncontrollable fall on a steep, continuous pitch is ever-present. Polar Peak is the epitome of Alpine. You can expect white-out conditions, and visibility can change at a moment's notice. This makes the already challenging terrain, much of which include a blind entrance, even more difficult.
To preserve its natural terrain, Polar Peak remains ungroomed. Be prepared for variable snow conditions, and always exercise caution as you navigate this challenging landscape.
OPEN | Terrain listed as Green is open to public |
CLOSED | Terrain listed as Red is closed to the public |
STAND BY | Terrain listed as Yellow is under assessment. |
ASSESSING YOUR ABILITIES
It is imperative that you are honest with yourself when evaluating your skills. Polar Peak is not the place for doubt. You must be fully confident in your ability and experience before navigating this big mountain terrain. If in doubt, we have a progression suggestion noted below.
Each person who skis/rides Polar Peak should only be responsible for themselves. Do not rely on the help of others in your party. Ensure you possess the skills to venture into this terrain safely.
One of the skills that everyone must know is how to self-arrest. Having the ability to control your position on the slope is imperative. Doing so limits your chances for injury to yourself and others and simplifies the retrieval of your equipment while limiting exposure.
When you ride in steep terrain, can you maintain control and still follow the Alpine Responsibility Code?
If you're uncertain about your abilities, don't hesitate to seek advice from a knowledgeable member of Fernie Ski Patrol.
SELF ARREST VIDEO EXAMPLES
CHECKING THE CONDITIONS
Before embarking on your Polar Peak adventure, check the lift and terrain status to see if it’s open.
Keep in mind that the Polar Peak Lift may close at any moment due to snow and weather conditions. Stay updated by consulting the resort's website or the Ski RCR App.
Abrupt weather changes can significantly influence your experience, so equip yourself with the appropriate clothing for the conditions.
As with any time you are preparing to hit the slopes, your equipment should function as intended. This becomes extremely important in the unforgiving terrain. Check your gear!
