Red Tree Lodge, Fernie, British Columbia

Fernie is renowned for its winter, but locals swear that summer is even better. Whether an adventure seeker or just looking to relax, the Elk Valley has something for everyone. Activities such as swimming, boating, white-water rafting, canoeing, biking, hiking, golf and fly fishing are in abundance in the area. Or simply make Fernie your home base while you travel to local lakes for day trips or explore Waterton Lakes National Park only two hours away.

Downtown Fernie, complete with turn-of-the-century buildings, is a short walk from the Lodge and offers an excellent selection of unique stores including clothes and outdoor activity shops, restaurants, bars, and coffee shops, as well as the Fernie Aquatic Centre, Fernie Museum, and much more. A walk down Victoria Avenue (2nd Avenue) provides a stunning vista of the Lizard Range framed by the architecture of the heritage buildings lining the street.

The city of Fernie was founded in the late 19th century after the discovery of local coal deposits, and mining remains one of the main economic activities in the area. Because of this mix of local activity – tourism, mining, and forestry - Fernie has managed to retain its strong community feel rather than turning into a purpose built resort town even after the word has spread far and wide.

Festivals and events are growing in the summer and fall seasons. Fernie Fest music festival kicks off the summer season, while the Canada Day activities entertain all ages highlighted by the mountainside fireworks display in the evening. Those looking to tempt their taste buds make their way to the Taste of Fernie in September to experience what Fernie restaurants have to offer. Welcome to Winter invites visitors to get ready for the colder temps and take in activities leading up to the opening of Fernie Alpine Resort and the approaching holiday season.