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
Night Skiing on the Mighty Moose
The Mighty Moose lift will be open, and the slope will be lit up from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Ski under the lights and enjoy this fun experience with your family!
A Lift Ticket or Season Pass is required to access the lift and slope.
Your daytime lift ticket is valid for night skiing (on the same day), or night ski-only tickets are available at Fernie Alpine Resort Rental Shop for $36.95.
*Please note: Night Skiing will pause briefly at approx. 4:45 pm for 10-15 minutes while our cat crew freshens up the slope with a quick groom.
2024/25 Night Skiing Schedule:
Dec 26 – Jan 4
Feb 14-16
Every Saturday from Dec 28 – March 29
Music On The Mountain 2024 presented by Corona
Join us on August 24 for an afternoon of live music from Anie Radish at Lost Boys Cafe!
LIVE MUSIC:
Anie Radish is a Kootenay singer, songwriter and creative.
She is a founding member of several long standing acoustic/folk and Canadiana bands including “As The Crow Flies” and “Redgirl”. Influenced by roots and folk legends Gillian Welch, Bruce Cockburn and Watchhouse, Anie is also not shy to dabble in 90s covers and original tunes. Known for her clear and grounding vocals, you can find this seasoned performer, with a guitar, uke or banjo, entertaining audiences of all ages.
Anie Radish will be playing live music from 12noon – 3pm.
LOST BOYS CAFE:
Lost Boys Cafe will be open for food and drinks from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm with LIVE MUSIC from noon until 3:00 pm
We hope you enjoy your day on the Timber Side!
TIMBER CHAIRLIFT:
The Timber Chair will be open for hiking, sightseeing and biking from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm.
Please note:
HIKING / SIGHTSEEING guests must upload by 3 pm and download by 3:30 pm.
BIKERS last upload is 3:30 pm.
HIKING TRAILS:
The following hiking trails will be open (conditions permitting – trails are subject to change, please check back for updates):
- TBC
BIKING TRAILS:
Please Note: The Timber Side bike trails are advanced/expert. Due to rocky conditions, downhill tires are recommended for Timber side trails, or bring a pump and tubes! Those looking for beginner/intermediate biking trails can access various trails off of the Elk Chair.
The following biking trails will be open (conditions permitting – trails are subject to change; please check back for updates):
- TBC
LIFT TICKETS:
Regular summer lift ticket rates will be in effect. Click here for rates.
Summer season passes will be accepted at the lift.
Thanks to our Music on the Mountain Partner:
Music On The Mountain 2024 presented by Corona
Join us on August 17 for an afternoon of live music from Ev Natacha at Lost Boys Cafe!
LIVE MUSIC:
British Columbia born and raised singer-songwriter Ev Natacha is a captivating songstress who delves into a variety of genres including country, jazz, folky-pop, and cabaret. Ev Natacha will be playing live music from 12noon – 3pm.
As a classically trained opera singer, Ev’s vocal control and sensitivity to melody make for a unique blend resulting in memorable performances that leave audiences spellbound and craving more.
LOST BOYS CAFE:
Lost Boys Cafe will be open for food and drinks from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm with LIVE MUSIC from noon until 3:00 pm
We hope you enjoy your day on the Timber Side!
TIMBER CHAIRLIFT:
The Timber Chair will be open for hiking, sightseeing and biking from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm.
Please note:
HIKING / SIGHTSEEING guests must upload by 3 pm and download by 3:30 pm.
BIKERS last upload is 3:30 pm.
HIKING TRAILS:
The following hiking trails will be open (conditions permitting – trails are subject to change, please check back for updates):
- TBC
BIKING TRAILS:
Please Note: The Timber Side bike trails are advanced/expert. Due to rocky conditions, downhill tires are recommended for Timber side trails, or bring a pump and tubes! Those looking for beginner/intermediate biking trails can access various trails off of the Elk Chair.
The following biking trails will be open (conditions permitting – trails are subject to change; please check back for updates):
- TBC
LIFT TICKETS:
Regular summer lift ticket rates will be in effect. Click here for rates.
Summer season passes will be accepted at the lift.
Thanks to our Music on the Mountain Partner:
Music On The Mountain 2024 presented by Corona
Join us on August 10 for an afternoon of live music from Abby Young at Lost Boys Cafe!
LIVE MUSIC:
Abby Young is an emerging indie singer-songwriter living in the picturesque setting of Fernie, British Columbia. With a sound characterized by soft melodies and lyrics that are both deeply personal and universally relevant, her music invites listeners to find fragments of their own stories within hers. In January 2024 Abby released her first EP Limerence on streaming services. Limerence is a reflective curation of a decade’s worth of songs, experiences, and personal growth.
Abby Young will be playing live music from 12noon – 3pm.
LOST BOYS CAFE:
Lost Boys Cafe will be open for food and drinks from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm with LIVE MUSIC from noon until 3:00 pm
We hope you enjoy your day on the Timber Side!
TIMBER CHAIRLIFT:
The Timber Chair will be open for hiking, sightseeing and biking from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm.
Please note:
HIKING / SIGHTSEEING guests must upload by 3 pm and download by 3:30 pm.
BIKERS last upload is 3:30 pm.
HIKING TRAILS:
The following hiking trails will be open (conditions permitting – trails are subject to change, please check back for updates):
- TBC
BIKING TRAILS:
Please Note: The Timber Side bike trails are advanced/expert. Due to rocky conditions, downhill tires are recommended for Timber side trails, or bring a pump and tubes! Those looking for beginner/intermediate biking trails can access various trails off of the Elk Chair.
The following biking trails will be open (conditions permitting – trails are subject to change; please check back for updates):
- TBC
LIFT TICKETS:
Regular summer lift ticket rates will be in effect. Click here for rates.
Summer season passes will be accepted at the lift.
Thanks to our Music on the Mountain Partner:
Specialty Hike – Berries, Trees & Other Useful Plants: An All Natural Foodie Tour 2024
An All Natural Foodie Tour: Berries, Trees & Other Useful Plants
On this hike we show you how nature is not only tasty, but useful as medicine, material and even for cleaning your dishes! Plus, explore the mystical, 800-year-old Old Growth Grove and discover how it gives away the secret of Fernie’s incredible amounts of powder snow in the winter.
Explore and find out more about the mountain, the secrets it has to offer, and enjoy the beautiful scenery on one of our specialty hikes! Each hike has a different theme and is fully guided by our experienced, professional staff. Hikes are 4 hours in length and go from 10:30am to 2:30pm.
DIFFICULTY
The Berries, Trees & Other Useful Plants hike is moderate in difficulty with uneven/rugged terrain.
WHAT TO BRING
- Daypack
- Lunch / Snacks / Water
- Additional clothing (mountain weather & temperature can change quickly!)
- Be sure to wear sturdy footwear!
- Camera/Phone for Photos (optional)
- Binoculars (optional)
COST
$70 + GST per person (includes lift ticket)
– Open to guests 17 years of age and older*
– Minimum of 6 guests are needed to run the hike (maximum number 10 guests)
*Families with youth or younger children looking to book a hiking experience can book one of our private guided hikes here: https://skifernie.com/purchase/guided-hiking-tours/
REGISTRATION
Register by calling 250-423-2406 or complete our online booking form here.
Music On The Mountain 2024 Presented by Corona
Join us on July 27 for biking, hiking and sightseeing with a live DJ in the plaza!
PLEASE NOTE: Due to a private function at Lost Boys Cafe, the regular Timber Chair and Lost Boys Café operating schedule for the day has been changed. See details below.
TIMBER CHAIR
LOST BOYS CAFÉ:
Lost Boys Cafe will be closing at 1pm for the remainder of the day on Saturday.
This is the only Saturday live music will not be at Lost Boys Cafe. Instead, we will have 6016 Dance Supply spinning great live tunes in the plaza, where you can enjoy some apres-fun once you have finished biking, hiking, and sightseeing.
Hiking Trails:
The following hiking trails will be open (conditions permitting – trails are subject to change, please check back for updates):
- Lily Loop, Lost Boys Lookout, Mammoth, Pika Pass, Sib Ridge, Ridge Walk, White Pass and Polar Peak.
Biking Trails:
Please Note: The Timber Side bike trails are advanced/expert. Due to rocky conditions, downhill tires are recommended for Timber side trails, or bring a pump and tubes! Those looking for beginner/intermediate biking trails can access various trails off of the Elk Chair.
The following biking trails will be open (conditions permitting – trails are subject to change; please check back for updates):
- Rumplestumpskin, TNT, Bike Theif, Lower Rumple, Lower TNT, CBD, Duff Gardens, Neverland & BC Cup
ELK CHAIRLIFT:
The Elk Chairlift will be open to Hikers, Bikers and Sightseeing from 10:00am – 4:00pm.
MUSIC ON THE MOUNTAIN:
6016 Dance Supply is a legendary local DJ who will be bringing the vibes to the base area plaza this Saturday 12 – 4pm
LIFT TICKETS:
Regular summer lift ticket rates will be in effect. Click here for rates.
Summer season passes will be accepted at the lift.
PLAZA APRES:
Once you have finished your adventure on the mountain, head down to the plaza and Legend’s for some après. We will have a live DJ (6016 Dance Supply ) spinning tunes in the plaza from 12pm-4pm.
Thanks to our Music on the Mountain Partner:
Music On The Mountain 2024 presented by Corona
Join us on July 20 for an afternoon of live music from Eve Lacey at Lost Boys Cafe!
LIVE MUSIC:
Eve Lacey is a hustlin’ independent artist with a passion for music that takes her all over southern Alberta and B.C. You can catch her performing at various Farmer’s Markets, cafés, and events where she pours her heart into singing covers in everything pop, folk, and country. Eve will be playing live music from 12noon – 3pm.
LOST BOYS CAFE:
Lost Boys Cafe will be open for food and drinks from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm with LIVE MUSIC from noon until 3:00 pm
We hope you enjoy your day on the Timber Side!
TIMBER CHAIRLIFT:
The Timber Chair will be open for hiking, sightseeing, and biking from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm.
Please note:
HIKING / SIGHTSEEING guests must upload by 3 pm and download by 3:30 pm.
BIKERS last upload is 3:30 pm.
HIKING TRAILS:
The following hiking trails will be open (conditions permitting – trails are subject to change, please check back for updates):
- Lily Loop, Lost Boys Lookout, Mammoth, Pika Pass, Sib Ridge, Ridge Walk, White Pass and Polar Peak.
BIKING TRAILS:
Please Note: The Timber Side bike trails are advanced/expert. Due to rocky conditions, downhill tires are recommended for Timber side trails, or bring a pump and tubes! Those looking for beginner/intermediate biking trails can access various trails off of the Elk Chair.
The following biking trails will be open (conditions permitting – trails are subject to change; please check back for updates):
- Rumplestumpskin, TNT, Bike Thief, Lower Rumple, Lower TNT, CBD, Duff Gardens, Neverland & BC Cup
LIFT TICKETS:
Regular summer lift ticket rates will be in effect. Click here for rates.
Summer season passes will be accepted at the lift.
Thanks to our Music on the Mountain Partner:
Music On The Mountain 2024 presented by Corona
Join us on July 13 for an afternoon of live music from Tim Ketchum at Lost Boys Cafe!
LOST BOYS CAFE:
Lost Boys Cafe will be open for food and drinks from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm with LIVE MUSIC from noon until 3:00 pm.
We hope you enjoy your day on the Timber Side!
LIVE MUSIC:
Tim Ketchum, a long term Fernie local is no stranger to the Elk Valley music scene. Fronting local band The Relief Committee as well as performing solo, Tim has played many venues across Fernie including Bramasole, Infinitea T-Bar, The Pub and many local community events including the recent Elk Valley Suicide Task Force biking event in Station Square. You can expect beautifully delivered folk and classic rock songs and just a few jokes and witty banter in between for good measure.
TIMBER CHAIRLIFT:
The Timber Chair will be open for hiking, sightseeing and biking from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm.
Please note:
HIKING / SIGHTSEEING guests must upload by 3 pm and download by 3:30 pm.
BIKERS last upload is 3:30 pm.
HIKING TRAILS:
The following hiking trails will be open (conditions permitting – trails are subject to change, please check back for updates):
- Lilly Loop, Lost Boys Lookout, Mammoth, Pika Pass, Sib Ridge, Ridge Walk, White Pass and Polar Peak.
BIKING TRAILS:
Please Note: The Timber Side bike trails are advanced/expert. Due to rocky conditions, downhill tires are recommended for Timber side trails, or bring a pump and tubes! Those looking for beginner/intermediate biking trails can access various trails off of the Elk Chair.
The following biking trails will be open (conditions permitting – trails are subject to change; please check back for updates):
- Rumplestumpskin, TNT, Bike Theif, Lower Rumple, Lower TNT, CBD, Duff Gardens, and Neverland.
LIFT TICKETS:
Regular summer lift ticket rates will be in effect. Click here for rates.
Summer season passes will be accepted at the lift.
Thanks to our Music on the Moutain Partner:
Introducing the Elk Grove Forest Playground!
New for Summer 2024 – Introducing the Elk Grove Forest Playground!
Phase 1 of construction for our new Elk Grove Forest Playground is well underway.
Located among a beautiful shady tree island at the top of the Elk Chair, this forest playground is a great place for kids to explore and play.
The Elk Grove will be a vibrant addition to the other summer activities that guests can access via the Elk Chair. Families can embark on a day of adventure, starting their visit with a ride up the Elk Chairlift and exploring the Elk Grove Forest Playground and Nature Bob’s Interpretive Centre.
Enjoy a family-friendly hike, passing by an observation deck with spectacular views and educational interpretive signs. Then, return to the Bear’s Den to enjoy refreshing beverages, snacks, and everyone’s favourite – ice cream!
Features of the new Elk Grove Forest Playground include:
- Pirate Ship
- Bridges
- Slide
- Chairlift Swings
- Cargo Climbing Net
- Sandbox
- Paths winding through the forest connecting all of the play features
- Picnic Area
Phase 1 of the Playground will be complete for Opening Day on Saturday, June 22nd. Plans for future phases are in development and will include more fun and creative play structures.
All Fernie Alpine Resort summer lift tickets and season passes include access to the Elk Grove Forest Playground. Children must be supervised by their responsible parent/adult.
Purchase your summer pass here – https://skifernie.com/purchase/summer-season-passes/
Purchase your summer lift tickets here – https://tickets.skifernie.com/product-category/summer-lift-tickets/
The Elk Grove promises a unique, fun-filled experience for kids and families. Come and join us for an unforgettable adventure!
