Tucked within the Elk Valley region of East Kootenay, Fernie is a historic mountain town surrounded by the splendour of the majestic Rocky Mountains. Enjoy its small-town ambience or step outside to discover snow skiing, hiking and mountain biking.

Thing to do

Downtown is the perfect place to get settled into the artsy-folksy atmosphere of Fernie. Grab an espresso or tea in one of the charming cafes on Main Street, then stop by Fernie Museum to learn about the region’s heritage, culture and art.

Make your way to the Fernie Art co-op to marvel at local arts depicting the lifestyle of the Kootenay Rockies and Elk Valley. You’ll find original photography, paintings, textiles and pottery as well as sculptures, woodwork and handmade soaps.

Mountain culture is strong in Fernie, as evidenced by the ski shops, mountain bikes and hiking-gear shops throughout town. Snow-sports enthusiasts flock to Fernie Alpine Resort on Lizard Range for skiing, tubing, sledging, heli-skiing and snowcat skiing.

In warmer weather, you’ll find plenty of hiking and cycling trails at the 2,210-metre-high Mount Fernie. At Mount Fernie Provincial Park, you can go swimming, boating and fishing, then stay for sunset grilling and picnicking near the lake. You also have the option of hiking Three Sisters Mountain.

Getting around

You can rent a car at Calgary International Airport, about 300 kilometres from Fernie. You can also reach Fernie by flying into Kalispell, about two hours away, and crossing the Roosville Border. Buses and taxis operate throughout town, while shuttles run to and from the ski resort during winter.