Summer Bonus Weekend!
We’re stoked to announce that we’re adding a Bonus Weekend to our summer operation!
Join us on September 6 & 7 for more lift-accessed biking, hiking, and sightseeing. The Elk and Timber Chair will be operating from 10 am – 4 pm on both Saturday & Sunday.
Stay tuned for more details!
Five Reasons to Have Your Wedding Reception at the Griz Bar
Your love story deserves a legendary backdrop.
Whether you met on the slopes, fell for each other over après, or simply dream of saying “I do” surrounded by mountain magic, Fernie has a venue unlike anywhere else.
Why Fernie’s most iconic bar might be your dream wedding venue!
If you’re dreaming of a laid-back mountain wedding with serious character – and space for everyone you love – it’s time to meet the Griz Bar!
Tucked at the base of Fernie Alpine Resort, the Griz Bar is more than just legendary après. It’s now one of the most unique wedding venues in the Elk Valley.
Here’s why it could be the perfect spot for your summer 2026 celebration:
- Room for Everyone You Love
With seating for up to 150 guests indoors, the Griz Bar is one of the largest licensed wedding venues in the valley. That means no awkward cut-downs to your guest list or back-up rain plans – just one big, beautiful reception under one roof.
- It’s Got That Fernie Vibe
This isn’t your typical reception hall. The Griz Bar is packed with rustic character, vintage ski memorabilia, and wood-beamed interiors that tell the story of Fernie’s mountain culture. It’s authentic, iconic, and full of soul.
- Crowd-Pleasing Menus
Photo: Matt Kuhn Photography
Our catering team serves up elevated yet approachable options – perfect for weddings that value flavour and fun. Think creative canapés, inspired buffets, seasonal cocktails, and hearty late-night snacks designed to keep the party going.
- A Relaxed Flow That Actually Works
You’ll have time to breathe with access for set-up and decorating the day before. That means less stress on the big day and allows more time to enjoy the moment.
- One Location, Endless Perks
Mountain views? Check. Indoor licensed venue? Check. Two large decks? Check. On-site accommodation and in-house catering? Absolutely. It’s all here, making the Griz Bar a natural choice for couples who want destination wedding ease without losing that down-to-earth Fernie vibe.
Now Booking Summer 2026 Weddings
If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable mountain wedding that leans into fun, reach out today to book a tour or check availability.
The Griz Bar is now accepting weddings for Summer 2026, and peak dates are expected to fill quickly.
Contact our Wedding & Group Specialists via our inquiry form, or reach out to:
Talon & Lydia
Weddings & Groups Specialist
Tel: 250 423 2442 | Cell: 250 430 7163
Photo: Matt Kuhn Photography
Community Appreciation Day(s) at Fernie Alpine Resort 2025
What to Do on Community Appreciation Day(s)
Community Day at Fernie Alpine Resort is all about celebrating connection — bringing locals and visitors together for two special Summer Community Appreciation Days this August.
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, August 5 and Thursday, August 7, 2025, when the resort will be open from 10 AM to 7 PM, offering great local deals and activities that give back to the community.
Lift Tickets & Local Offers
These days feature exclusive lift ticket pricing for Elk Valley residents (Fernie, Elko, Jaffray, Sparwood, & Elkford):
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Single-ride lift ticket on the Elk Chair: Adult/Senior/Youth/Child — $5 donation, Family — $10
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Full-day or twilight lift ticket: Adult/Senior/Youth/Child — $10 donation, Family — $20
All proceeds go to the Fernie Food Security Society.
To take advantage of these deals, bring proof of residency and photo ID to Guest Services. Waivers are required for bike park access (riders under 15 need a parent or guardian signature).
Family Fun
Community Appreciation Day is a great family day out! The Elk Grove Forest Playground is a must-visit. Located at the top of the Elk Chair, this unique alpine play zone blends natural elements with imaginative structures, giving kids a safe and adventurous space to explore while parents soak up stunning mountain views. After some playtime, treat the family at Bear’s Den or visit Nature Bob’s Interpretive Centre, where kids can discover local wildlife, fossils, and the region’s natural history.
Back at the base, Legends Mountain Eatery is serving up a great family offer — kids eat free from 11 AM–5 PM with the purchase of an adult meal, making it easy to refuel between activities.
Mountain Biking
The Fernie Alpine Resort Bike Park is open to riders of all skill levels during Community Day. Whether you’re an experienced downhill enthusiast or trying the sport for the first time, there’s a trail suited for you. Downhill bike rentals are also available, making it easy for everyone to get out on the trails without bringing their own gear.
Hiking
Enjoy the resort’s network of lift-accessed hiking trails and explore Fernie’s breathtaking alpine landscapes. There’s something for everyone, from short, family-friendly walks to more challenging adventures. Be sure to bring your camera — the views and photo opportunities are simply unmatched.
Sightseeing
Looking for a more laid-back experience? Hop on the Elk Chairlift and soak up panoramic views of the Elk Valley and surrounding peaks. It’s the perfect way to enjoy Fernie’s beauty without breaking a sweat, whether you’re heading to the top for a picnic or simply want to take in the fresh mountain air.
Quick Tips Before You Go
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Dates: August 5 & 7, 2025
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Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM
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Who: Elk Valley residents only (families and individuals)
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Bring: Proof of residency + photo ID
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Bonus: Kids eat free at Legends (11 AM–5 PM with the purchase of an adult meal)
Community Day is the perfect way to experience Fernie Alpine Resort in summer — whether you’re here to explore, relax, or give back. With discounted tickets, family activities, scenic rides, bike rentals, and delicious food, it’s a day to connect, play, and make unforgettable mountain memories.
Specialty Hike – Berries, Trees & Other Useful Plants 2025
Berries, Trees & Other Useful Plants: An All Natural Foodie Tour
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
$69 + GST per person (includes lift ticket)
– Open to guests 17 years of age and older*
– Minimum of 3 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
LIMITED SPACE! Call our Summer Adventure School at 250.423.2406 or email us at [email protected].
Specialty Hike – The Secret History of Trees
The Secret History of Trees
Uncover the story behind the burnt-out stumps that dot much of the mountain and how they’re part of a curse from Fernie’s past. 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 winter.
Explore and discover more about the mountain and its secrets, and enjoy the beautiful scenery on one of our speciality hikes! Each hike has a different theme and is fully guided by our experienced, professional staff. Hikes are 4 hours long and go from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm.
DIFFICULTY
The Forestry 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
$69 + GST per person (includes lift ticket)
– Open to guests 17 years of age and older*
– Minimum of 3 guests are needed to run the hike (maximum number of 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
LIMITED SPACE! Call our Summer Adventure School at 250.423.2406 or email us at [email protected].
Specialty Hike – Birds & Wildlife 2025
Birds & Wildlife: Creatures of the Forest
People aren’t the only animals that call Fernie home. Some, such as deer, can be seen all over town and some, such as the cougar, are elusive and rarely seen by people. Join our guide as they show you the vibrant array of creatures that can be found here, how to identify tracks and scat, and what to do if you run into a bear.
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 Birds & Wildlife hike is moderate in difficulty with elevation gain and some 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
$69 + GST per person (includes lift ticket)
– Open to guests 17 years of age and older*
– Minimum of 3 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 bubble group hikes here: https://skifernie.com/purchase/guided-hiking-tours/
REGISTRATION
LIMITED SPACE! Call our Summer Adventure School at 250.423.2406 or email us at [email protected].
Specialty Hike – Fossils & Geology 2025
Fossils & Geology: A 380 million-year-old history lesson
Why are the rocks in the Lizard range upside down? And how does Polar Peak tell the story of a mass extinction event 360 million years ago? Find out the answers to these questions and more as we traverse ancient sea beds, uncovering the remnants of the sea creatures that lived in ancient times.
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 10:30 am to 2:30 pm.
DIFFICULTY
The Fossils & Geology hike is moderate in difficulty with elevation gain and some 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
$69 + GST per person (includes lift ticket)
– Open to guests 17 years of age and older*
– Minimum of 3 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 group hikes here: https://skifernie.com/purchase/guided-hiking-tours/
TO REGISTER
LIMITED SPACE! Call our Summer Adventure School at 250.423.2406 or email us at [email protected].
Specialty Hike – Mountain Wildflowers 2025
Mountain Wildflowers: More than just a Pretty Face!
Take a stroll through our colourful sub-alpine meadows and discover why wildflowers are not only beautiful but also an interesting and important part of the natural landscape & ecosystem.
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 Mountain Wildflower hike is moderate in difficulty with elevation gain and some 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
$69 + GST per person (includes lift ticket)
– Open to guests 17 years of age and older*
– Minimum of 3 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 hikes here: https://skifernie.com/purchase/guided-hiking-tours/
REGISTRATION
LIMITED SPACE! Call our Summer Adventure School at 250.423.2406 or email us at [email protected].
Polar Peak Guided Hike 2025
Reach New Heights This Summer
At over 2,100 metres, the summit of Polar Peak delivers one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Canadian Rockies — with uninterrupted 360-degree views stretching across Fernie, the Alberta border, Lake Koocanusa, and beyond.
This full-day guided hike begins with a scenic chairlift ride up the Timber Express (single-ride lift ticket included). From there, you’ll hike through Lost Boys Pass to the top of Elephant Head before continuing along the rugged ridgeline between Timber Bowl and Currie Bowl. Your final ascent leads to the iconic summit of Polar Peak.
This is not your average hike.
Designed for adventurous and experienced hikers, this alpine route includes:
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A short section with significant exposure
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A steep scramble supported by a fixed cable
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Uneven, rocky, and challenging terrain
Proper hiking footwear is mandatory.
Quick Facts
Difficulty: Difficult – rocky terrain, elevation gain, and some scrambling
Duration: 5–6 hours (full day)
Time: 9:45 am – 4:00 pm
Price: $199 + GST per person
(Includes single-ride lift ticket and certified guide)
Availability
This guided experience is offered on three select Saturdays only:
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July 19
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August 9
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August 30
Limited space available – pre-booking required.
Open to guests 17 years and older. Minimum of 4 guests required to run the hike.
What to Bring
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Daypack
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Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water
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Layers and weather-appropriate clothing (conditions can change quickly)
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Sturdy hiking footwear
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Optional: Camera, phone, or binoculars
Ready to summit?
Call the Summer Adventure School at 250-423-2406 or email [email protected] to reserve your spot.
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
