4 minute read
Snowmobiling
Reasons to snowmobile in Fernie
From big snow and amazing riding to great service and sled-friendly accommodations, here’re a dozen reasons why you should snowmobile in Fernie this winter.
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1. One of the Closest Mountain
Destinations to the Prairies: Fernie is one of BC’s most accessible mountain snowmobiling destinations for prairie communities. Relax and enjoy an easy, straight drive through Southern Alberta and a short mountain drive through the Crowsnest Pass communities on Hwy #3 to reach us.
2. Sledder Friendly Community &
Accommodations: Fernie is a visitor-friendly town with a wide range of lodging options from comfortable, clean and affordable motels to full-service hotels and high-end private chalets and condos. Many accommodations offer plenty of space for large sled trailers and there are no parking fees in Fernie- anywhere! Some of the top places to stay for sledders are Fernie Super 8, Park Place Lodge, Best Western Fernie, and the Stanford Hotel.
3. Accessible Terrain for all Abilities:
Convenient staging areas and groomed trails only minutes from town! Fernie offers enough alpine terrain to challenge the most avid and advanced enthusiasts while also offering an amazing diversity of trails and areas ideally suited for families, intermediate or beginner riders. 4. Great Grooming: 160km of maintained trails are groomed four times a week providing access to areas such as Coal Creek and Rolling Hills for a wide range of riders. Accessible, groomed trails are why Fernie appeals to a wide range of riders. Groomed trails lead quickly into the backcountry providing easily accessible big mountain riding for all abilities. 5. Big, Big Snow!: Fernie’s reputation for legendary powder means sledders can always find deep pow and a consistent snowpack to play in for the duration of our long sledding season, December through to early May.
6. Welcoming Facilities at the Wranglers
Cabin & Rolling Hills Cabin: New in 2019 - Coal Creek Staging Area has doubled in size! The Rolling Hills Cabin was added in 2013 to provide an additional welcoming space for sledders. The Wranglers Cabin was replaced in 2018 to provide new facilities at this popular location. Follow the wide, groomed trail from the Coal Creek Staging Area for 16km to reach the Rolling Hills Cabin and great family-friendly riding zones.Or, depart the Morrissey staging area and travel 15km to reach the Wrangler’s Cabin and technical gladded sled zones. The two areas can be connected via the groomed Doug Dean or Summit Trails. Additional riding is available in the Ram, Corbin and Hartley areas - each with their own staging points. These trails are groomed less regularly but lead to advanced alpine riding, also popular with sled-ski tourers.
7. Fernie Snowmobile Association (FSA):
A recipient of the BCSF Club of the Year and Groomer of the Year awards, the FSA is one of BC’s most active and friendly snowmobile clubs. In addition to grooming, maintaining
cabins and organizing events, the club is a great resource for information. Join today to ride the trails, and to support the trails and facilities!
8. Snowmobile Guiding & Instruction:
Whether you are a first timer in the backcountry or want to perfect your big mountain riding, our snowmobile experts are here to help you get the most of your Fernie visit! Avalanche courses & guiding services are available from Elk Valley Snow Shepherds. Lessons and Clinics are offered by Weir Boondocking. 9. Service, Service. Service: Snowmobile retailers in Fernie are serious about service and quality: Ghostrider Motorsports - Serving the sledding community for over 20 years. Authorized dealer for Artic Cat, Yamaha and Honda. Sled sales, rentals, financing, service and support. Sled and trailer rentals. Delivery and pick up services available. Gearhub - Snowmobile accessories and clothing. Avalanche safety gear sales, rentals and support. Located close to Coal Creek Staging Area. Avalanche gear and backcountry info is also available at the Guides Hut, in downtown Fernie. 10. Snowmobile Events: From the fast & furious Sled Drags held in early March to family rides and the new Gumball Adventure Race, there are always great sledding events for you to enjoy!
11. Nightlife, Dining & Entertainment:
Friendly bars offering great food, jam nights, trivia nights and lots of variety provide a fun night out after a day on the mountain – perfect for sharing stories over a local beer. Familyfriendly restaurants and activities can be found in and around town. Ghostrider Hockey Games and special events from New Year’s Fireworks to Griz Days Winter Festival create a fun and festive atmosphere you will love.
12. Plenty of Other Activities and
Attractions to Explore: Fernie has great options for non-sledders or anyone looking for a day off the trails. Ski or snowboard at Fernie Alpine Resort, cross-country ski, try fatbiking, catski for the day or take a scenic catride to Island Lake Lodge for lunch and spa session. Enjoy the Aquatic Centre, Museum, movie theatre or live music at a family-friendly venue. Explore historic downtown’s shops, dining and cafes, or relax with a day at one of the many local spas.
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