Winter Hiking

Prepare to Love Winter

Whether you ski, board, sled or snowshoe, the mountains surrounding Fernie offer the perfect opportunity to explore.

We want everyone to leave Fernie with great stories to tell, so here are some safety tips to make sure you return home with some awesome tales.

• Be prepared

Check local snow and weather conditions at Canadian Avalanche Centre (Avalanche.ca) and plan your route before you head out. If you need any local knowledge, ask at the information centres or in any local outdoors stores.

• Tell someone what you are doing

Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to get back. Take a cell phone, walkie talkie or, if you're going deep into the backcountry, a GPS transmitter (SPOT) device so you can communicate in an emergency.

• Take a professional

Island Lake Lodge and Fernie Alpine Resort both offer guided tours.

• Know your limits

Winter shouldn't be hard work, you'll enjoy yourself much more if you are comfortable with the terrain and equipment. Also make sure everyone in your group is capable of the planned activities.

• Use your head

Your head is irreplaceable - wear a helmet!

• Be equipped

If you are heading into the backcountry or out of bounds Fernie Search and Rescue suggest the following essential items for your backpack – and make sure you and your companions know how to use them. Transceiver, good quality shovel, probe, map, navigation equipment – GPS and compass in case the batteries fail, extra clothing and food and drink, a first aid pack, means of lighting a fire, basic tools, communications equipment.

• Tune up

Make sure your skis, board or sled are in good working order before you head out – and carry basic tools so that if something does go wrong you won’t be stranded. Get your sled serviced at Ghostrider Motorsports and get your skis or board tuned – for local sports stores see page 36.

• Don't panic

Being lost is not dangerous if you are prepared. If you become lost remember S.T.O.P – sit, think, observe, plan.

• Prepare your vehicle

Always use winter tires or chains on your vehicle and carry spare clothes, food and water.

• Insurance Assurance

Make sure your travel insurance covers all the activities you have planned. Thousands of visitors safely enjoy Fernie's snow and scenery every year – we hope you are one of them.