Winter Running 101 by Abi Moore

from Fernie Fix Winter Guide 2022/23

Local’s Perspective: Chris Ebbern

FERNIE GOLF COURSE | DANYAL TAYLOR PHOTO

Fernie Golf Course

Managed by the Fernie Nordic Society with a membership needed for access, this area provides roughly 8km of relatively flat track-set groomed trails close to town. The Golf Course is a great place for families and beginners to try out the sport, for intermediates to work on technique, and for a quick lap if short on time. No dogs are permitted on these trails, there is 4km of Fernie Dike trail adjacent to the golf course also groomed where dogs are permitted.

Montane Fernie

Also close to town, Montane offers 10kms of designated Nordic trails that include both beginner and intermediate terrain. Another great place for those new to the sport to explore and learn, and for those keen for a longer ski, to head up to the Montane Hut and enjoy the view. Dogs are welcome on these trails. This area is managed by the Coal Creek Heritage Society.

Elk Valley Nordic Centre

Managed by the Fernie Nordic Society with a membership needed for access, the Elk Valley Nordic Centre offers fun, challenging well-maintained intermediate trails with some elevation, as well as an area dedicated to the younger cohorts and those learning. With roughly 10km of track-set groomed trails, this area can also be connected to Fernie Alpine Resort trail for those staying at the hill or those looking to connect for a longer ski.

FERNIE NORDIC CENTRE | V. CROOME PHOTO

On Saturday nights, Ski Under the Lights from 6-8pm January through March!

Fernie Alpine Resort

Managed by the resort and free for public use, these track-set groomed trails are accessed from Parking Lot 4 with a short loop, medium loop, and longer loop available, with the full loop roughly 9km in length with some elevation gain. Dogs are welcome here, and these trails are multi-use so you may see runners, fat-bikers and snowshoers. Additionally, the City of Fernie maintains sections of the City trails, easily accessed from town and connecting some Nordic areas, and Island Lake Lodge allows Nordic skiing on their lower road. For the full scoop on all winter grooming available this season, pick up a free winter trail map at gear shops in town or the Visitor's Centre.

Krista Turcasso is Finnish, so of course she grew up Nordic skiing! With the abundance of quality grooming available in Fernie, she took up skate skiing and it has added to her appreciation of winter.