Experience Fernie in the Winter

Winter in Fernie

Experience Fernie. A winter wonderland. A mountain paradise. Breathtaking views. There just aren’t enough words to describe the beauty of Fernie in the winter. Arriving on a blue bird day you’ll have the opportunity of taking in the Rocky Mountains that encircle the mountain town of 4,200 residents. Three Sisters, Mount Fernie and Mount Proctor are all located directly behind the Red Tree Lodge. They can be viewed from our Superior and King rooms, as well as the Mount Fernie Suite. These room types all feature their own private balcony.

With the popular Fernie Alpine Resort located just 8 minutes outside of town, Fernie has become one of the most popular mountain destinations in North America.  Fernie gets an annual snowfall of 29 feet, spread out over 142 runs and 2,504 acres of terrain.  This terrain includes 5 spectacular open bowls, numerous ridges, and amazing glades, meaning Fernie Alpine Resort offers adventure at every turn. 10 lifts service the resort and there’s a variety of terrain for every skill level. Often you’ll find low clouds hovering over town, but as you gain altitude on the chairlift, you’ll break into the beautiful sunshine that lies above. This year the resort is set to open December 5th (weather permitting).  It can’t come soon enough for those who can’t wait to experience Fernie!

Fernie Alpine Resort

The resort is always evolving and its services and this year there’s a few new things happening. The Kids Wings Program takes the hassle out of having to find and purchase new equipment for that growing child. By joining this program ($149), you pick up your gear at the beginning of the season and return it before it closes. There will be more high performance option in the rental shop and more rental options for kids (4-6). There’s been terrain improvements and a new groomer has joined the fleet. As always, while staying at the Red Tree Lodge, you can save 5-15% off lift passes.

Other Winter Experiences

Skiing and snowboarding aren’t the only favorite past time of residents and visitors here to experience Fernie. Cat skiing, cross country skiing, snow biking, snow shoeing and snowmobiling are increasing in popularity and making for a different kind of adventure. Snow biking allows you to use big tires to float through the snow with good traction. Timing is key for a good snow ride, so hit the trails when they’re nicely packed and not too icy. If you’re a beginner, try the Lazy Lizard trail (10km). For an intermediate give the Ridgemont Loop (9km) a try and for advanced riders, the Provincial Park Loop (7km). If you’re looking for the experience of a lifetime, then cat skiing is for you!

Fernie Wilderness Adventures offers day cat skiing trips on over 5,000 acres that features a variety of ridges to begin your descents from. A typical day starts with breakfast at the lodge, then it’s a quick cat ride up the backcountry terrain. Next thing you know, you’ll find yourself in waist deep powder on every run. With an elevation over 7,150 ft, the conditions keep the snow falling from the Coast and dry powder perfect for skiier and snowboarders to enjoy world renowned Canadian Rockies. Choosing from a vast variety of terrain, from ranges to ridges, valleys’ to spectacular gladed meadows, you won’t be able to wipe that smile off your face. Take a sneak peek below!

Photography by Jean-Yves