Welcome to Canada’s ski bum capital
Encircled by towering mountains and granite cliffs, Fernie is British Columbia’s self-confessed ski bum capital. It’s tucked away in the Elk Valley and is famously laidback. Once a modest lumber and coal town, Fernie quickly garnered attention for its ski slopes and thick dustings of powder. Today, Fernie Alpine Resort is one of Canada’s most coveted snow sports destinations. If you’re planning a winter escape, Fernie vacation rentals are the perfect way to keep your group together. The town is just as enchanting in the summer, when legions of hikers and mountain bikers take over the slopes.
A powder paradise in Fernie
In the winter, Fernie Alpine Resort hums with activity. It’s swathed in an impressive layer of snow which makes it a bucket list destination for skiers and snowboarders. Just north of the town is Mount Fernie Provincial Park. There are hikes for all fitness levels, as well as camping, hiking, and some of the best fishing in the Kootenays. If you’re craving a culture fix, head to the Fernie Museum for a colorful overview of the forests, wildfires, and floods that have shaped the town. Just down the road is the Fernie Arts Co-op, a cavernous gallery showcasing painting, pottery, jewelry, handicrafts and more.
Relaxed vibes on Victoria Avenue
Lined with trendy coffee shops, organic juice bars, and local galleries, Victoria Avenue serves as Fernie’s main thoroughfare. Red-brick buildings give the town a vintage vibe, with the fun spilling out onto the street during the summer. In winter, the same bars serve up a legendary après-ski scene. Fernie vacation rentals put you in the heart of the action, with a great selection of condos just steps from Victoria Avenue. There are plenty of summer thrills on offer, from white water rafting on Elk River to mountain biking down Fernie Mountain.
Summer sun and legendary snowfall
Fernie enjoys 4 distinct seasons, each with its own unique charms. Winter brings legendary snowfall, with ski season usually kicking off in mid-November and running right through to mid-April. If you want to carve up the slopes by day then warm up by a roaring fire, Fernie vacation rentals unlock access to cozy chalets just minutes from the resort. Summer sees Fernie drenched in sunshine, with warm temperatures that are perfect for hiking, biking, and swimming. Spring and fall are great shoulder season months if you want to beat the crowds.
Scenic splendor in British Columbia
Enclosed by mountains on all sides, Fernie is arguably North America’s most scenic ski town. It sits on the banks of the Elk River and is part of British Columbia’s famous Kootenay region. To the southwest of the town is the mighty Lizard Range, home to Fernie Alpine Resort. If you’re hitting the trails in summer, be sure to carry bear spray and keep dogs leashed because Fernie is bona fide grizzly territory. Keep your eyes peeled and you could also spot black bears, bald eagles, elk, moose, and bighorn sheep.
Transportation to and around Fernie
The nearest airport is in Cranbrook, BC (YXC-Canadian Rockies Intl.), located 33.3 mi (53.6 km) from the city center.
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