COMPLETE Guide to Skiing in Fernie • Resort, Backcountry, XC + More

While most people know Fernie for its legendary bowls, off-piste terrain and the famous “Fernie Factor”, there’s so much more to the skiing scene here than just the resort. From backcountry touring to cat skiing, cross-country trails to fat biking, plus all the other winter events that happen throughout the season, Fernie truly has something for everyone.

Going into my fourth winter living in Fernie, it’s safe to say I know what I’m talking about when it comes to skiing in Fernie, and I’m here to help you plan an epic winter ski trip. I’ve covered everything you need to know about winter in Fernie, including all the practical details you need to plan an epic ski trip to my adopted hometown.

P.S: If you’re looking for information specifically about the Fernie Alpine Resort, I have another post dedicated to the ski resort.

Bags Always Packed is a reader-supported site which means some of the links on this page may be affiliates. I spend a lot of time researching these hotels, tours and products and only recommend those which I would use myself. Booking your trip through my links is a great way for you to support my work for free, as I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. ♡

Quick Summary

With 9 meters of annual snowfall, Fernie is known as one of the powder capitals of Canada, so it’s no surprise that skiing in Fernie is known to be unbeatable.

Fernie is not only home to the world-class Fernie Alpine Resort, here you also have a large network of cross-country and multi-use trails to explore, plus endless backcountry terrain accessible by ski touring or cat skiing.

The best time to ski in Fernie is usually February and March. February generally brings the most snow fall and by March, the sun begins to appear for glorious spring conditions.

1. Why Ski in Fernie?

Let me start with what makes Fernie special (if you don’t already know)!

• The “Fernie Factor” – The average yearly snowfall in Fernie is 9 m / 29 feet! But it’s not just the quantity, it’s the quality of those 9 meters that makes us all stick around year after year. Because of its location, Fernie has a unique microclimate that often gifts us with surprise dumps of light, dry powder that skiers dream about, even when nothing is forecast (and when the surrounding ski resorts get next to nothing).

• The Terrain – If you’re an experienced skier or snowboarder, love off-piste and enjoy putting in a little extra effort to find the hidden powder stashes and sneaky lines, Fernie will continue to provide trip after trip. The valley is full of alpine bowls, both in and outside of the resort, with an eclectic mix of powder fields, steep chutes and tree runs.

• No Crowds – Honestly, this is one of the main reasons I now call Fernie home. Since it’s located just a little bit off the beaten path, we rarely have lift lines, and the town never feels crowded. The only time you will find lift lines longer than a couple of minutes is during the Christmas/New Year holiday period and also first thing on an epic powder day. But even then, I don’t think I’ve ever waited more than 10 mins to get on a lift.

• The Vibe – Despite having some world-class skiing, Fernie hasn’t lost its small-town charm. The ski culture here is about pure stoke, not just showing off the latest gear. Plus, we get the benefit of having some amazing restaurants and a fun apres scene, without it taking over the entire town.

• Multi-use Trail Network – Fernie is way more than just the ski resort. We are super lucky to have a huge trail network around the town, which is accessible all year round. Many trails are groomed for XC and fatbiking, while there are plenty of hiking trails left untouched for snowshoeing and ski touring. On top of this, our backcountry is super accessible. You can access endless terrain just minutes from your accommodation.

That being said, Fernie (same as anywhere) isn’t perfect. The weather can be unpredictable (hence the “Fernie Factor”), and when it’s storming, it’s really storming. A huge proportion of Fernie’s terrain has a very high avalanche risk, so it’s not uncommon for the best bowls to be closed for days after a storm. But when it’s good, it’s absolutely magical.

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2. Downhill Skiing at Fernie Alpine Resort

Fernie Alpine Resort is the main reason most people visit Fernie in the winter, and for good reason. The thing that sets the Fernie ski resort apart is the unmatched off-piste skiing in its legendary bowls.

Even though no modern resort developer would even dream of putting lifts into somewhere as avalanche-prone as directly under the Lizzard Headwall, we get to reap the benefits of the loose regulations of the 60s and a crazy vision brought to life by Heiko and Linda Socher.

There are 6 alpine bowls, each with its own personality: Lizard Bowl, Siberia Bowl, Timber Bowl, Cedar Bowl, Currie Bowl and Polar Peak. You’ll find a mix of gladed trees, steep chutes, open powder bowls and even some hikable terrain… basically, a freeskier’s dream!

Beginners & Families

The whole lower mountain has some pretty mellow terrain with wide open runs, good grooming and a learning zone with both a magic carpet and a pommer/button lift. While I wouldn’t classify this as a “family-focused resort”, this, along with a large ski school program, makes Fernie a good choice for beginners and families.

Where I feel Fernie falls a little short is the true intermediate level. There is quite a steep learning curve when moving from the beginner and novice terrain of the lower mountain to the upper mountain runs. Plus, Fernie doesn’t really have any groomed black runs, it’s all off-piste.

That being said, there are still runs to try as an intermediate skier or snowboarder; you just need to be a little more selective so you don’t end up out of your depth. If you have intermediate riders with you, I highly recommend checking out this article that has a progressive list of the best intermediate runs in Fernie, from easiest to hardest.

Read More!

10 Best Beginner Ski Runs @ Fernie Alpine Resort!

Season Dates

OPENING DATE: 5th December 2026
CLOSING DATE: 12th April 2026

The resort typically operates from early December through to mid-April, although I’ve skied here as early as November, depending on snow conditions. Last season, we actually had 2 meters of snow the week before the resort opened in late November; it was the best opening day ever!

Tickets

Tickets cost around $170 CAD for a single-day ticket, with reduced rates for multi-day passes.

TOP TIP: Book online at least 48 hours in advance for a 15% discount on lift tickets.

If you’re skiing 3 or more days, it’s worth buying an RCR Rockies Card. By purchasing this card, you get up to 3 days of free skiing (days 1,4 & 7) plus $30-$60 off the day rate at any of the RCR resorts, including Fernie, Kicking Horse, Kimberley and Nakiska.

Fernie is also a partner resort to the Epic Pass. If you have the full Epic Season Pass or a 4+ day Epic Day Pass, you are eligible for up to 7 days of skiing at Fernie!

For a complete breakdown of lift tickets, accommodation options, terrain guides, and insider tips from someone who’s lived and worked here for three years, read my comprehensive Fernie Alpine Resort guide.

Read More!

Fernie Ski Resort Guide✔️9 Things to Know about Fernie Alpine Resort

3. Cross Country / Nordic Skiing in Fernie

Having lived in Norway, I don’t think anywhere is ever going to live up to the incredible standard of cross-country trails that you will find in the birthplace of the sport. That being said, for such a small town where the focus really is on downhill, Fernie has a pretty great network of XC trails too! You can see them all on the Winter trail map online, or pick up a map around town.

XC Rentals in Fernie

There are three shops that rent cross-country gear in Fernie:

• Gearhub Sports – Located in downtown Fernie at 401 1st Avenue, Fernie.
• Fernie Alpine Resort Rentals – The main rental shop at the ski hill is located up the stairs at the top end of the village, near the Deer Chair.
• Quest – Found inside of Snow Creek Lodge, Quest is another great option up at the ski hill. 5258 Highline Drive.

Nordic Ski Areas in Fernie

There are 5 main areas for cross-country skiing in Fernie, and each one is vastly different, so I’ve given you a quick rundown of each of them below.

The Fernie Golf Club:

• Cost: $15 per day / $25 family pass (purchase online from Fernie Nordic Society)
• Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
• Dogs: Not Allowed
• Location: 201 Fairway Dr

This is the easiest XC area in Fernie and the place I always recommend for first-time Nordic skiers. The trails are mostly flat with a handful of very short, mellow hills. The main track goes around the outside of the golf course green, with a few tracks that cross through the center, so you can easily make any size loop you like.

Aside from the flat, easy trails, get ready for epic views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic Three Sisters.

Since this area is maintained by the Fernie Nordic Society, you can be reassured that the trails are frequently groomed and track set. However, it’s also the lowest in elevation of all the Nordic ski areas in Fernie, which means we often have to wait until January for there to be enough snow here for skiing.

Fernie Alpine Resort Nordic System:

• Cost: Free
• Distance: 11 km / 7 mi
• Dogs: Allowed
• Location: Lot 4, Fernie Alpine Resort

The XC trails at Fernie Alpine Resort are a step up in difficulty from the golf course but are well maintained with track set classic and skate skiing. Note that the trails are multi-use and shared with fat bikers and snowshoers.

Starting from the end of parking lot 4, you’ll find a rather steep cross-country trail leading up a hill. While this beginning section is a black trail, don’t be put off if you are a beginner; simply walk up the hill until the trail flattens into a blue trail.

The rest of the trails in this network consist of 3 sequential loops, so you can easily pick how far you want to go. The hills on these blue trails are more sustained than the ones at the golf course; however, still fairly mellow and suitable for strong novice and intermediate skiers.

Elk Valley Nordic Centre:

• Cost: $15 per day / $25 family pass (purchase online or onsite from Fernie Nordic Society)
• Distance: 10 km / 6.5 mi
• Dogs: Not Allowed
• Location: 500 Mt Fernie Park Rd

If you’re a passionate Nordic skier and looking for the best cross-country trails in Fernie, the Elk Valley Nordic Centre is where to go. These trails are groomed and track set nearly every day throughout the season and range from intermediate loops to more challenging routes through the forest of the Fernie Provincial Park.

There is a nice warming hut located at the start of the trail network, and you’ll often find volunteer trail ambassadors throughout the area ready to answer any questions you may have.

Montane:

• Cost: Free
• Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
• Dogs: Allowed
• Location: Montane Parkway

The Montane area is a large rabbit warren of interconnecting trails which are used for all kinds of activities in the winter, including cross country, fat biking, snowshoeing and hiking. 8 km of these trails are dedicated cross-country trails without any foot or bike traffic allowed.

Starting from the Montane Parkway trail head, head up the Easy Beaver trail to get into the heart of the network, then follow the signs for the cross-country trails to the Montane Hut. The warming hut is open all year round with a small fireplace and wood available to use, free of charge. If it’s a nice day, you’ll also get the best panoramic views of the valley from any of the XC trails in Fernie!

These trails are on the steeper side, as they weren’t really made specifically as XC trails; instead, they are more like hiking trails. Rather than undulating up and down, these trails are pretty consistently up all the way to the hut, and down all the way back to the start.

NOTE: The cross-country trails in Montane are groomed but not track set, and can become quite slick when the snow is icy. This, combined with the steeper terrain, means the Montane area is best in the early afternoon.

Fernie Valley Pathway:

• Cost: Free
• Distance: 6.5 km / 4 mi
• Dogs: Allowed
• Location: Maiden Lake to James White Park

If you’re looking for an easy trail with stunning views, the Fernie Valley Pathway is a great option. Following the Elk River through Fernie, the path is groomed and track set (when possible) from Maiden Lake, all the way to James White Park (see the Golf Course map above).

This trail is multi-use and gets a lot of sun throughout the season, which means a lot of factors need to line up for this trail to be in top shape. Because of this, it’s particularly important to check the grooming report.

TOP TIP: You can check up-to-date grooming and trail conditions on the Nordic Pulse app, just search for Fernie and select the correct area to see all the trails.

4. Cat Skiing in Fernie

Many people come to Fernie with absolutely no idea that we have not one but two cat skiing companies offering an incredible backcountry experience. I’ve already talked about the epic powder that Fernie is known for, so imagine being transported by snowcat to the top of a private, untouched bowl, waiting just for you…

The great thing about cat skiing in Fernie is that it’s open to nearly anyone, from strong intermediate to expert skiers and snowboarders, even if you have no previous backcountry experience. You’ll be escorted by knowledgeable guides and provided with all the proper avalanche safety equipment, so all you need to do is get stoked.

Fernie Wilderness Adventures (FWA)

FWA is the more economical of the two cat skiing companies in Fernie and offers both day trips and overnight stays in their rustic mountain lodge. If you choose to stay here, you can expect a cozy atmosphere, hearty home-cooked meals, a beautiful wood-fired hot tub and an intimate experience as the lodge has just 8 double occupancy rooms.

With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and an altitude of 2170 m / 7,150 ft, there’s nearly always plenty of untracked snow to be found at Fernie Wilderness Adventures. However, it is important to note that they ask that you consider yourself an advanced skier or snowboarder to join their trips.

That means you “can ski strong parallel turns confidently on a variety of terrain and conditions. Enjoys skiing on black runs and in trees.”

Cat skiing trips run from 8 am – 5 pm and include all your avalanche gear for the day, a knowledgeable guide, a packed lunch, apres and limitless powder. You can also rent powder skis or snowboards for an extra cost if you wish.

CAT SKIING PRICES:

• Early & Late Season Rate (Open – Jan 8 / March 17 – Close): $675.00 + 5% tax per person
• Regular Season: $775.00 + 5% tax per person
• Lodge: $190.00 + 13% tax per person/per night.

FWA has a “last-minute club” where they send out emails if a space becomes available on any of their day trips. Email [email protected] to get on the list.

Island Lake Lodge

If you’re looking for the ultimate backcountry experience, you can’t beat a trip to Island Lake Lodge.

Rather than a few hours of skiing, Island Lake Lodge is a luxurious private lodge, accessible only by snow cat. With over 7,000 acres of private wilderness, a beautiful wooden lodge, fine dining restaurant and spa onsite, you’ll truly feel as though you’re in heaven. David Beckham even brought his whole crew to stay at Island Lake Lodge in 2025!

The minimum ability level for Island Lake is “strong intermediate” and above, which is described as “Capable of skiing/riding in control at a steady pace on any terrain. Comfortable in a variety of snow conditions. Fit enough to ski/ride consecutive, full days.”

While the focus here is on luxurious multi-day backcountry experiences, Island Lake Lodge does offer limited seats for day trips, usually early and late in the season, but even these book out well in advance.

Island Lake Lodge usually sells out at least a year in advance, so this is one you definitely need to plan ahead.

CAT SKIING PRICES:

• Day trips: $699 + tax per person
• 2 Nights / 2 Ski Days: $3,250 – $4,000
• 3 Nights / 3 Ski Days: $5,000 – $9,000
• 4 Nights / 4 Ski Days: $6,700 – $8,500

NOTE: Prices fluctuate depending on the dates and time of booking.

5. Ski Touring in Fernie

Unfortunately, there isn’t much information available online about ski touring in Fernie, but believe me, there is a lot of backcountry to explore here. I highly recommend purchasing the Fernie Ski Touring Map (also available to buy in person from the Guides Hut) and joining the Fernie Ski Touring Facebook group to get information on the routes here.

While I can’t cover everything, here, to give you a bit of an overview, there are a few main backcountry access points for ski touring in Fernie: Tunnel Creek, Mt Fernie Provincial Park and Fernie Alpine Resort (Falling Star and Snake Ridge provide side country access).

There isn’t really any beginner touring in Fernie, and most of the more intermediate touring terrain is accessed via Fernie Alpine Resort. This is definitely a town where you should be skiing with experienced ski tourers wherever possible.

I also cannot stress enough how avalanche-prone most of the terrain around Fernie is. It’s 100% necessary to check all the proper forecasting and follow advice from Avalanche Canada as well as local resources like the AvCanada South Rockies team.

Backcountry Huts

There are two backcountry ski touring huts in Fernie, both of which can be booked on the Fernie Trails and Ski Touring Club website.

Available dates are released twice per season (mid-November and mid-January), and weekend bookings are generally snapped up almost instantly. However, there are often last-minute cancellations and mid-week availability, so it’s helpful to be flexible with your plans.

Both cabins cost $150 per night to rent (for the whole cabin) plus a $10 booking fee.

Thunder Meadows

The Thunder Meadows cabin sits on a ridge between the Fernie Alpine Resort and Island Lake Lodge properties, offering incredible bowls and tree skiing.

Inside, you’ll find a wood furnace with firewood, a propane stove, cooking pots and other utensils and solar-powered lights. The cabin has a lofted sleeping area that sleeps up to 6 people on foam mattresses, and there’s a comfortable outhouse nearby (but bring your own toilet paper).

To access Thunder Meadows, there are two options. If the Polar Peak lift at Fernie Alpine Resort is running, you can skip most of the elevation gain by taking the chair lift and passing through the avalanche transceiver gate into Polaris Bowl. This route does pass many high-risk avalanche paths, so check with avalanche forecasts and the Fernie Ski Patrol before committing to the route.

If you don’t want to go via the ski resort, you can also access Thunder Meadows from the Mt Fernie Provincial Park. Park at the Gorby bridge and continue up the road until you reach Cabin Ridge, which is the up track to Thunder Meadows. Check the official website for all the specific details.

All the access routes for Thunder Meadows pass through complex avalanche terrain and should not be taken lightly. Make sure you have the proper training, experience and information before setting off.

Tunnel Creek

Tunnel Creek is the easier of the two cabins to access, and since being rebuilt in 2022, it’s also the more modern backcountry hut in Fernie. You can expect a wood furnace with firewood, a propane stove, cooking utensils, pots and pans, plus solar-powered lights and an outhouse located next to the main building.

The Tunnel Creek cabin also sleeps up to 6 people, but is still a bit more spacious than Thunder Meadows. Plus, the terrain in the Tunnel Creek area is a little more forgiving in difficulty while still offering some great skiing.

To get to Thunder Meadows, you’ll need to drive 20km south of Fernie, just past the rock cut tunnel and park at the large pullout. From here, it’s around a 500m vert climb up to the cabin. Get all the access details here.

6. Things to Know about Skiing in Fernie

6.1 Best Month for Skiing in Fernie

After three seasons of skiing here, I’ve learned the rhythms of Fernie’s winter, and timing your visit makes a huge difference.

December – January: Last year we had an epic December, but unfortunately, that was a bit of an anomaly. Usually, the season is just starting to ramp up in December and then turns incredibly cold throughout January. The dry cold usually means very little fresh snow, and the crowds peak in the holiday season. So, unless you’re specifically coming for a holiday getaway, I recommend avoiding this time.

February-March: This is prime time. We generally get the most snow in February, plus when it’s not snowy, we start getting more and more sunny days, which means it’s typically the best combination of fresh snow and sunny weather.

April: Spring season skiing can be amazing if the snow holds. The weather is generally more stable with plenty of sun and often a couple of bonus powder days. If it’s been a good snow season, there will still be plenty of corn to harvest on and off piste in April.

Weather in Fernie

The most accurate weather forecasts in Fernie include the Fernie Alpine Resort Alpine Weather (for snow depth and conditions on the mountain) and Spot Weather. Plus, it’s always good to read up on the Avalanche Canada MIN Reports for the area to know what the snow is doing.

NOTE: The weather in Fernie can be very different from the weather in the surrounding areas. We almost have a little microclimate (which is why we get so much snow). So make sure you’re checking the local forecast and not basing it on nearby towns.

You can also check live webcams for Hwy 3 at Morrisey (10km south of Fernie, looking north), Island Lake Lodge and Fernie Alpine Resort.

6.2 Getting Around in Fernie

Getting to Fernie can be quite difficult if you don’t have a rental car (check out my article on how to get to Fernie here), but once you’re here, everything you need is within a 15-minute drive!

The Fernie Alpine Resort is about 7km from downtown Fernie, which is an easy 15-minute drive down the highway. Parking is free all over town and at the ski resort, so you don’t even have to worry about finding a spot.

NOTE: Street clearing can sometimes be a little slow when we get big dumps of snow, so be prepared for snowy/icy winter driving.

Stoke Shuttle:

If you don’t want to drive, the Fernie Stoke Shuttle runs in a loop between downtown Fernie and the ski hill with many stops along the way.

Note that the Stoke Shuttle only runs in winter (December 13th, 2024 – March 30th, 2025) and does not run all night. There are extended services during the holiday period, but make sure to check the exact times in the app, as there can be up to an hour wait between shuttles.

Tickets cost $5 per ride and can be purchased through the Stoke Shuttle App.

Read More!

How to Get to Fernie, BC → By Plane, Car & Public Transport

6.3 Winter Events in Fernie

There are a handful of fun winter events throughout the season in Fernie that are worth checking out if you want to see what this town is all about.

Mogul Smoker

Before winter even begins, the town celebrates the beginning of winter in mid-November with an epic bush party. This 19+ event is held at a secret location on private property, accessible only by the provided shuttle, so all you need to do is dance the night away.

NOTE: The event organizers have decided to take a break for 2025, but hopefully this fun tradition will be returning next year!

Griz Days Festival

If you’re planning your ski trip around any singular event, it should be the Griz Days festival! Held on the first weekend in March, Griz Days celebrates the legend of the Griz, our town mascot who is said to shoot snow from his musket, gifting us endless powder days.

The festival starts with an epic parade and continues throughout the weekend with “Ultimate Griz” competitions, events, games, fireworks and music. You can find all the details here.

Fernival

Closing weekend at Fernie Alpine Resort is all about sun, fun and music. Starting off with the classic Slope Soaker (pond skim) competition, you can look forward to live music in the village plaza all weekend long.

6.4 Apres Ski in Fernie

The après scene in Fernie has that perfect balance of authentic mountain town vibe without being pretentious. You can rock up in ski boots without a problem, plus what I really like about living here is that there is a huge range of options. Whether you’re looking for a quiet post-slope beer or to party the night away, you’ll find it just steps apart.

On the mountain at Fernie Alpine Resort, the Griz Bar is your one-stop shop for apres. This historic bar is located above the day lodge and is often full before the lifts even stop running. While this is a great spot for a couple of drinks and a ginormous plate of nachos to end an epic snow day, it closes quite early on most days as people need to drive back to town.

The real apres scene is in downtown Fernie! Here are a few options to get you started:

• Fernie Tap House – Classic pub food and drink with 25 beers on tap. Often hosts fun trivia nights and other themed events.
• The Northern Bar and Stage – Best place to go for live music in Fernie, the Northern often has relatively big-name bands grace the stage. Tickets for these events usually sell out pretty quickly, but even on an average night, the Northern is a good time.
• The Pub – For a good mix of pool, drinks and dancing, the Pub generally starts off pretty quiet and ramps up as the night goes on. Make sure to get in early if you’re going for trivia.
• The Kodiak Lounge – Attached to a hostel, the Kodiak usually attracts quite a young crowd, but everyone is welcome. They host fun nights weekly like karaoke, bingo and is the unofficial afterparty on hockey nights.
• The Legion – Free pool and the cheapest drinks in town. If you’re looking for a casual night out with friends, the Legion is a good choice.
• The Central – The closest thing to a “nightclub” in Fernie. The Central is only open for special events, but when it is, it goes hard!

7. Where to Stay in Fernie for Skiing

Choosing where to stay in Fernie can really make or break your trip, which is why I put together a comprehensive guide for you about the different areas and hotels by budget. But for those of you who want the cliffnotes, there’s one main decision to make: whether you want to stay in downtown Fernie or at the ski hill.

TOP TIP: Book early (a couple of months ahead if possible), especially for December – January. Accommodation fills up quickly during peak season, and prices reflect the demand.

Downtown Fernie

This is my top recommendation for most people. You’re in the heart of the community, walking distance to restaurants and bars, and the shuttle to the resort is convenient. The vibe downtown is an authentic small-town mountain community, and honestly, where most of the action is off the slopes.

Luxury

Park Place Lodge

If you want to stay in a proper hotel with all the facilities while staying as close to the Historic Downtown as possible, Park Place is your best option. Here you’ll find an indoor pool, bar and two restaurants on-site. Make sure to check out the weekly events at the Pub downstairs!

Check Prices

Mid Range

Fernie Fox Hotel

Located in West Fernie, the Fernie Fox offers eco-friendly rooms and suites with a shared outdoor hot tub. The Fernie Stoke Shuttle stops right outside (peak seasons only), taking you to town, the provincial park and the ski hill.

Check Prices

Budget

Red Tree Lodge

Red Tree Lodge is a great choice if you want space and facilities without a hefty price tag. Located just off the highway, you’re within walking distance of downtown but can also enjoy the onsite pool, pet-friendly rooms and free bike rentals.

Check Prices

Hostel

The Raging Elk

This fun hostel is a social hub within Fernie for locals and visitors alike. The attached Kodiak lounge hosts fun weekly events and is the unofficial afterparty location for local hockey games. That being said, it’s not a party hostel, there are great family rooms available with plenty of privacy for budget-conscious groups.

Check Prices

At the Ski Hill:

If you want ski-in/ski-out access and don’t really care for the nightlife scene in Fernie, stay at Fernie Alpine Resort. There are plenty of options from private airbnbs to shared lodges and hotels, plus you won’t have to walk far to hit the slopes. Just note that after the Griz Bar closes, the resort village is really a sleepy little town. There aren’t many options when it comes to dining or apres.

Luxury

Lizard Creek Lodge

Lizard Creek Lodge is THE place to stay if you’re looking for a luxurious mountain getaway in Fernie. Located right at the base of the Elk chairlift with a spa, heated pool, hot tub and fine dining restaurant onsite, you truly have everything you need at this hotel.

Check Prices

Mid Range

Snow Creek Lodge

Located directly under the Elk Chair, Snow Creek Lodge is another great ski-in ski-out option. The apartments offer all the self-catering facilities you could need plus a shared swimming pool and BBQ facilities.

Check Prices

Budget

Slopeside Lodge

For the cheapest rooms on the hill, Slopeside Lodge has an incredible location in the village. Located right in the heart of the resort, Slopeside offers great rooms with private bathrooms, but for other facilities like restaurants, you’ll have to walk a few steps outside.

Check Prices

Holiday Home

Ski-in Chalet

If you’re bringing a big group, renting this luxurious chalet is the best accommodation in Fernie. This modern house has huge glass windows, gorgeous furnishings, a hot tub and 7 bedrooms!

Check Prices

Read More!

How to Get to Fernie, BC → By Plane, Car & Public Transport

8. Tours to Fernie

The thing about Fernie is that it’s tucked away from the main tourist routes, which means organized ski tours don’t always swing through here. When you’re hunting for tours, keep an eye out for anything labelled “Powder Highway,” but do yourself a favour and double-check the itinerary details. I’ve noticed quite a few skip right over our charming little ski town.

I did some digging and found a handful of ski tours that actually include Fernie. These companies all have solid reputations and honestly look like they’d be a blast!

• Fresh Adventures: 12 Day Ultimate Powder Highway Ski & Snowboard Tour
  This tour starts off strong with 2 days of skiing in Fernie before heading to Whitewater, Red, Revelstoke, and Kicking Horse. Basically, nearly all of the best Ski Resorts in Canada are covered in one epic trip!

• Fresh Adventures: 9 Day Canadian Rockies Ski Trip
  If you prefer to focus on the Rockies, this 9-day ski trip also includes 2 full days of skiing at Fernie Alpine Resort. On top of that, you’ll get to try Lake Louise, Sunshine and Kicking Horse!

• Aurora Backcountry: 10 Days Powder Highway Canada
  Starting in Kelowna and ending in Calgary, this action-packed backcountry tour is for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders only. The tour focuses on ski touring in some of the most epic mountain destinations in B.C (including Fernie, of course).

Frequently Asked Questions about Skiing in Fernie

After three years of calling Fernie home and skiing here multiple times every week, I can confidently say this is one of the best ski towns in Canada. The combination of incredible snow, challenging terrain, and authentic mountain culture creates something special. Whether you’re here for resort skiing, backcountry adventures, or just want to experience what real mountain skiing is all about, Fernie delivers.

When I first got here, it was a little intimidating, but skiing in Fernie has certainly pushed my boundaries and improved my skiing a lot. Be prepared for conditions that can humble even experienced skiers, and weather that changes faster than you’d expect. But when it’s good, it’s absolutely world-class.

Happy skiing,

Kate

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