Fernie Winter Guide 2022

Where to Shop, Dine, Play & Stay

Welcome to Fernie

High up in the snowy Canadian Rockies, Fernie has something for everyone. With an annual average of 30 feet of snow each year, its location right next to a world-class ski hill means there’s plenty to keep you active and engaged. Find out a little about what you can see in Fernie here, and then go find the rest for yourself.

History

Discover Heritage with the Fernie Museum this Winter!

Fernie is named after William Fernie, who played a huge part in starting coal mining in this community at the end of the 1800’s. Fernie took off in earnest when the Canadian Pacific Railroad came through the area in 1898, and the abundance of coal fueled the trains that crossed the continent and connected east to west.

A community with a vibrant and at times chaotic past, Fernie burned down twice in the early 1900’s – which is why much of today’s downtown is made up of elegant historical brick and stone buildings instead of wood.

Today many of these buildings are lovingly preserved and on display for visitors and locals alike to enjoy.

Fernie has gone through booms and busts, with a population of 6,000 as far back as 1910, and economic collapses that hollowed it out between then and the 1960s including war, the great depression, and the faltering of the coal industry.

Today, mining is again thriving in the Elk Valley, though the underground mines that supported the Fernie of its first 50 or so years of life are long gone, today the industry remains a pillar of the economy of the entire Elk Valley.

The other major pillar is tourism, which has been going from strength to strength since the ski hill was opened in the 1960s.

Fernie Museum

Discover local heritage with the Fernie Museum!

On the corner of 2nd Avenue and 5th Street is the Fernie Museum, a heritage building packed with Fernie’s history. The building itself is an important part of Fernie’s — and Canada’s — story, having been part of a nationwide financial scandal that contributed to the failure of Canada’s Home Bank in 1923.

Pick up a heritage walking tour brochure from the Fernie Museum or Visitor Information Centre and discover all of Fernie’s historical buildings, including: The Fernie Court House, an award winning chateau-style structure completed in 1911, or Fernie City Hall, the former headquarters of The Crow’s Nest Pass Coal Company. One of the few buildings to survive the Great Fire, this Dutch barn style building served as a place of refuge during and after the fire.

The Museum also offers Guided Walking Tours, and will host a new art exhibition: Second Skin – Saving the Planet One Garment at a Time, this winter.

What is Griz Days?

Griz Days is Fernie’s annual winter festival, with something for everyone. Held every year for the last 46 years, the festival features fireworks, music, competitions, lumberjack shows, a parade and much, much more. It’s held on the first weekend of March, and is a staple of the late winter season.

But what is the ‘Griz’?

There’s a local legend behind the name – and the exact story seems to change depending on who you ask, but long story short: The Griz is a legendary mountain man that Fernie thanks for the feet and feet of snow that fall in the valley and on the ski hill every year.

How can you get involved?

Sign up for the ‘Extreme Griz’ competition, or just be in town for the Griz Days weekend of fun and festivities! Go to ferniegrizdays.com for more on this years event.

Griz

Skiing

If you hit the road looking for some downhill skiing and ended up in Fernie, you have definitely found the right place.

Fernie Alpine Resort

Every winter, a huge crop of people migrate to Fernie and the surrounding area to work at and experience the Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR). If you have a pair of skis or fancy renting some, this is your chance to discover what all the fuss is about. FAR offers over 2500 acres of ski-able terrain, with 142 named runs, five alpine bowls, high-end snowmaking and grooming equipment, as well as a beginner area.

For more information, visit skifernie.com, call 1-800-258-7669 or email information@skircr.com.

Fernie Wilderness Adventures

Those looking to really push themselves may want to get in touch with Fernie Wilderness Adventures (FWA) for some cat skiing.

FWA is situated in a mountain range just south west of FAR, which is known for its legendary deep snow dumps. They have a maximum elevation of over 7,150 feet.

They have over 5,000 acres of terrain and a variety of different ridges from which to begin your epic descents. Depending on the group and conditions, skiers can expect eight to 10 runs. Visit ferniewildernessadventures.com, call 250423-6704, or email info@fernieadventures.com.

Wapiti Ski Club

PlayThose who are seeking to ski but want something less challenging (but just as majestic) might consider the Wapiti Ski Club in Elkford, about 45 minutes north of Fernie. Most of the runs are suitable for beginners, with a few intermediate sections and some labelled difficult.

This volunteer-run hill offers ski and snowboard rentals, waxing, edge sharpening and tune ups. Contact the ski hill at 250-865-2020 or visit wapitiskiclub.com for more information.

Nonstop Ski and Snowboard Coaching

Those looking to improve their skiing or snowboarding skills can get in touch with Nonstop Ski and Snowboard Coaching to see what these professional instructors have to offer. For more information, visit www.nonstopsnow. com//resorts/fernie-canada, call 1-778-806-4883 or email info@nonstopsnow.com.

Sparwood

loop

There’s an outdoor skating rink in Fernie, and plenty of places to go skating out on lakes in the area (check for safety), but up in Sparwood there’s the Lions Park Skating Loop – a 400m Zamboni’d outdoor loop through Lions Park.

In what started as a a light-bulb idea in early 2021 to give locals more to enjoy outdoors during the long winters of the Elk Valley, the skating loop draws in locals and folks from around the Elk Valley and beyond. The loop is set to be expanded in the future, and the district lights it up for a few weeks in February when its open.

Located right in town, near the Recreation and Leisure Centre, the loop was so successful it’s received provincial kudos, with the district getting an honorable mention at the local

government excellence awards at the Union Of British Columbia Municipalities convention in 2022.

No passes are required to make use of the loop, all you need is a pair of skates, and plans to have fun.

Fatbiking

Fernie isn’t just a place to go skiing in the winter: you come to Fernie to go mountain biking in summer, now you can go fatbiking in the winter months too.

More and more riders take to the trails on the chunkywheeled fatbikes every winter, and now the trails are made for it.

Over 100km of the summer trails you know and love are groomed for multi-use, being Nordic skiing, fatbiking, walking and more.

Volunteers work hard to ensure locals and visitors have hard-packed snow trails to enjoy on a fatbike, with some trails groomed especially for the increasingly popular sport.

Conditions need to be good for fatbiking, lest you sink into the trail and wreck the experience for others, but the way to approach the sport is pretty simple: If your bike breaks through the snow and leaves ruts, come back when the weather’s turned colder and the trail has a chance to set.

Bring your own or hire a bike from a bike business in Fernie and get pedaling up into the hills. There are groomed trails to the east and south of town, in the Ridgemont and Montane areas, while the dyke trail around town is also groomed, and volunteers groom portions of the trail network to the west of town as well. The winter trails map, which is released by Tourism Fernie each year, details what trails are appropriate for what.

Fatbiking isn’t just a Fernie thing around these parts either – there are fatbike-appropriate trails around Sparwood, and up in Elkford as well where the sport has taken hold thanks to the beauty of the trails of the valley.

Make sure you rug up and stay warm, and get out there to enjoy the great outdoors on a bike this winter.

What is fatbiking?

If you’ve never heard of it, never fear! It’s pretty simple: A bike you can ride in the snow! Conditions need to be good, but it’s entirely possible to ride (most of the way) through the winter months in the Elk Valley, just in case downhill skiing, nordic skiing, snowshoeing, etc, aren’t what you want to spend all your time doing.

How do I ride responsibly?

• Trail etiquette is very important when fatbiking. Trails around Fernie are multi-use, so we have to respect our fellow trail users.

• To stay within community expectations, ONLY ride in areas that allow fatbiking, and obey all trail access and vehicle signage.

• Snowshoers and nordic skiers have right-of-way. Yield to all other users when out on the trails. You have brakes, others do not.

• Avoid riding trails when conditions are wet and slushy. This creates ruts that will freeze overnight, making the trail hard to use, and hard to fix.

• Most importantly, have fun!

Nordic Skiing

From a first time skier to a long-time veteran, classic or skate, getting out on some corduroy in the Fernie area shouldn’t be a problem.

Elk Valley Nordic Centre

With trails of varying difficulty, green to black, and growing trail network of over 9km, the Nordic Centre has something for everyone. Managed by the volunteer-run Fernie Nordic Society, these trails are professionally designed for Nordic skiing. Amazing views, challenging hills and beautiful forests are just some of the perks of skiing here. Recent work on the trail network and at the staging area allows for early season skiing and excellent late season conditions.

Fernie Golf Club

Over 12km of classic and skate groomed trails loop through open terrain and forests. This network is ideal for new skiers, those seeking limited elevation or some fun night skiing. These trails are groomed by both the Fernie Golf Club, and the Fernie Nordic Society. No dogs are allowed here, nor are users permitted to walk, snowshoe, fatbike or use motorized vehicles on these trails.

Montane Nordic and Multi-Use Trails

This network is extensive with 8km of roads, snowcat-groomed for Nordic skiing only, and

15km of groomed trails for multi-use. These trails are rated as green in difficulty, and are cared for by volunteers of the Coal Creek Heritage Society. The network overall offers varying terrain from open trails to more challenging forested trails. Some trails will lead skiers to the Castle Mountain Network, where there is a warming hut at the far end. Grab a winter trails map to see where! Please follow signage in this area, as some trails are groomed specifically for particular users.

Fernie Alpine Resort

The resort isn’t just for downhill skiing, with 14km of groomed and track-set trails awaiting Nordic skiers. The trails range from begi9nner, to intermediate for both classic and skate. Lessons and rentals are available at the resort village, where you can find all the vacation amenities you would need.

Sparwood and Elkford

The two communities to the north of Fernie also feature wonderful Nordic skiing opportunities. In Sparwood, the Sunset Ridge Ski Society grooms and maintains trails around the Sparwood Golf Club, and in Sparwood Heights, while the Elkford Nordic Ski Club maintains trails around the Mountain Meadows Golf Court, and up the Boivin Creek Trail. Visit their websites for more information.

Snowshoeing

Strap on a pair of snowshoes and you can walk through powder like magic.

There are dozens of trails close to Fernie that can lead you on a magical journey through the wintery woodlands, giving visitors a direct line to the peaceful silence and contemplation time that winter stillness provides.

Snowshoeing is a more accessible sport than skiing, and doesn’t require much training or physical ability to do. If you can go for a walk in the woods, you can go probably go snowshoeing.

It is, however, more of a strain than a summer walk on soil or grass, so while there is peace to be found in the winter woods, expect to break a sweat and work out the calf muscles, quads and hamstrings. The snowfall may be light, but never take a journey into Elk Valley wilderness lightly. These are the Rockies, after all, and should never be underestimated.

You will need to be geared up with a pair of snowshoes, first of all. Always be ready to face the cold, and be prepared with clothing appropriate to the weather. Layer up, and consider bringing a warm drink with you while you’re out there.

There are plenty of stores in town that offer

snowshoe rental, so if you came to town without the proper gear, never fear! In-town vendors can help set you up.

And don’t forget: travelling into the forests and mountains always comes with the possibility of a wildlife encounter. The peace of a winter wonderland is fantastic, but don’t let it dull your wits. Bears are in all likelihood asleep in the winter, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any potentially dangerous creatures around.

If you’re looking for ideas on where to go snowshoeing, the Visitor Information Center is a great resource for you. There, you can find up-to-date maps of all the trails around town. If you fancy doing some research before you ask, look into trails in the Fernie Provincial Park, on Mount Proctor near Fairy Creek Falls or the Fernie Alpine Resort. There are also Facebook groups dedicated to the sport that are Elk Valley specific.

If you don’t want to get too serious, the trails in the Ridgemont area to the southeast of downtown are easy to travel on, so you don’t have to go far to enjoy a wonderful snowshoeing experience. Stay safe out there, and enjoy!

Snowmobiling

There is an abundance of winter sport options in Fernie, and sometimes the most thrilling choice comes with a motor!

Snowmobiling around Fernie and the Elk Valley is supported by tons of trails, with dedicated groomers who keep them in proper condition for your adventures.

There are also associations and shops that can help guide you on the way to snowmobile explorations in the region.

If that’s what you’re looking for, Fernie and the valley can definitely accommodate.

Fernie Snowmobile Association

These guys n’ gals call Fernie a true sledders paradise, offering a huge amount of terrain suitable for every type of rider.

The Fernie Snowmobile Association (FSA) regularly maintains over 160 kilometres of groomed trails, five unique riding areas, three day-use warming shelters, and access to vast wilderness ready for exploration.

The FSA is the ideal starting point for information about snowmobiling in the area.

For more information and how to purchase a day ticket, visit ferniesnowmobile.com or email info@ferniesnowmobile.com.

Elk Valley Snow Shepherds

The Elk Valley Snow Shepherds offer snowmobile guides, clinics, and avalanche education.

Those interested in riding clinics can receive personalized instruction from skilled and professional coaches, who have systematic

lesson plans for every level of rider. They also take private groups out for curated trail tours. Their staff are spirited locals who are passionate about sledding and have deep knowledge of the local terrain and conditions. All guides are professionally certified in avalanche hazard evaluation, risk management, weather analysis, and emergency first aid and rescue techniques. For more information, visit elkvalleysnowshepherds.com, call 250-531-0703, or email info@elkvalleysnowshepherds.com.

Elkford Snowmobile Association

Based out of Elkford, this association’s volunteers groom as many kilometres of trail as they can depending on season snowpack and local logging activity. They groom the 20 km or main trunk trail at minimum weekly.

They have a variety of terrain including groomed and ungroomed trails, meant for skill levels ranging from beginner to expert. The majority of their areas are accessible to all levels of riders. They also have a warm-up cabin and outhouse at the heart of their riding areas. Their trail system begins at their staging area at Round Prairie, 4.5 kilometres north of Elkford.

For more information, visit elkfordtrails.com/ snowmobile, or contact elkfordsnow@gmail.com.

For snowmobile rentals or more information about the sport locally, you can visit Ghostrider Motorsports (30 Shadow Rd., 250-423-9251) or GearHub Sports (401 1st Ave., 250-423-5555) in Fernie.

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Fernie FAQ

What is the population of Fernie?

In the 2021 census 6,320 people called Fernie home, and that number is growing! Only five years before, there were 5,396 people within city limits. That’s a jump of over 17 percent! Fernie’s municipal population hides the number of residents up and down the valley that come to town every day for work and play. With only 15K people in the Elk Valley, there’s a lot of room to explore and discover.

Turyk

Shop

Fernie has a beautiful, historic downtown filled with great shops, run by passionate people who love what they do! And the shopping opportunities spread beyond the downtown core. We recommend taking a stroll down 2nd Avenue and beyond to see what Fernie has to offer.

GearHub Sports, 401 1st Avenue - Stock up on outdoor gear and essentials before heading out on your next wilderness adventure.

Ski Base, 432 2nd Avenue - A wide variety of mountain sport equipment, apparel and accessories can be found at this shop.

Edge of the World, 421B 2nd Avenue - Owned by Fernie legend, Greg ‘G-Money’ Barrows, this shop will hook you up with all your snowboarding and backcountry needs, and make you look cool as heck too!

Straight Line Bicycles, 461 2nd Avenue - Fernie isn’t just a ski town, but a bike town, too! Check out Straight Line Bicycles for bikes, accessories and riding gear. Fat bikes are great for winter!

Commit Snow and Skate, 462A 2nd Avenue - This store is jam-packed with snowboard and skateboard goods, including steeze-y apparel.

Board Stiff, 542 2nd Avenue - Board-ware galore! This shop has snowboard, skateboard, and surfboard items, along with apparel,

footwear, and accessories.

The Guide’s Hut, 671 2nd Avenue - Outdoor adventurers will find many important items here, from tents to cooking equipment, flasks and gear of all kinds. They also have skis, snowshoes, related equipment, clothing, and much more!

Kootenay Fly Shop and Guiding Co., 821 7th Avenue - A gear shop for all you fly fishers out there! Stock up for the warmer months if it suits you.

Canadian Tire, 1791 9th Avenue - Canadians, you know the drill. Stop by Canadian Tire for items ranging from winter jackets to gloves, boots, outdoor heating, camping gear, and much more.

The Source, 362 2nd Avenue - If electronics are what you’re looking for, good chance you’ll find them here.

Local, 632 2nd Avenue - Support the region’s producers at this shop which sells locally-sourced food items.

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, 581A 2nd Avenue - Oh boy, try to contain yourselves… or don’t. All kinds of chocolate-y deliciousness can be found at this downtown shop.

Beanpod Chocolate, 691 2nd Avenue - Making chocolate the old fashioned way, this place has chocolate, gelato, and coffee, made from scratch on-site.be found at this shop.

Le Grand Fromage, 672 2nd Avenue - These folks live by the philosophy: ‘Life is great. Cheese makes it better.’ Check them out for your cheese and charcuterie needs!

Happy Cow Handcrafted Ice Cream, 561 Hwy. 3 - Fernie’s classic ice cream shop serving up cold yumminess for those hot summer days.

Good Earth Natural Alternatives, 592 3rd Avenue - Vitamin supplements, crystals, health foods, and bath and body products can be found at this shop.

The Cottonwood Tree, 602 2nd Avenue - An alternative health shop to check out.

Red Apple, 1102 Hwy. 3 - This general merchandise store offers bargain prices for everyday-need items, toys, home products, food, fashion, and more.

Save-On-Foods, 792 2nd Avenue - A grocery shop for whatever food and pharmacy items you might need.

Eldho’s Your Independent Grocer, 1792A 9th Avenue - Another grocery shop that has all the food you could need.

Odyssey Clothing For Your Journey, 672 2nd Avenue - A woman’s clothing store with all kinds of apparel for your adventures.

Freyja Kootenay Boutique, 602B 2nd Avenue - Women’s apparel with accessories like bags, head-wear, scarves and jewelry.

Joe Fresh, 1792A 9th Avenue - Clothing for the whole family can be found here.

Mark’s, 1791B 9 Avenue - Casual apparel, accessories, footwear, and more.

IGS Value Drug Mart, 441 2nd Avenue - A full service pharmacy and drug store.

Interior Envy, 441 2nd Avenue - This shop is run by a mother-daughter duo and has all kinds of colourful and comfortable home decoration

items, jewellery, mugs and more!

Ghostrider Trading Co., 661A 2nd AvenueThis women’s clothing store has items ranging from comfy sweaters, to leather hand bags to colourful shoes.

Coal Town Goods, 562A 2nd Avenue - This shop is passionate about Fernie, and sells goods ranging from handbags to jewelry, ceramics to clothing.

Polar Peek Books and Treasures, 592 2nd Avenue - Book-lovers will find a great place to browse and buy at Polar Peek Books. They also have non-book items like puzzles, tarot cards, and more.

Hempire, 571 2nd Avenue - An eclectic mix of clothing, candles, incense, grow supplies, bongs, pipes, vapes, cards, and more.

Cryptic Hive, 581B 2nd Avenue - This tattoo shop for creative minds features artwork, murals, clothing, and more.

Eye of the Needle, 260 5th Street - This artisan gallery provides all kinds of great gift options.

Fernie Stationers, 1501 9th Avenue - This office and art supply store has all kinds of products for working professionals and artists alike.

The Green Petal, 421 2nd Avenue - A boutique shop with flowers, plants, gifts, and home-ware.

Salvation Army, 741 2nd Avenue - Browse and buy at the Salvation Army thrift shop! There are all kinds of items here.

Urban Settler, 701 2nd Avenue - Billed as a ‘lifestyle, furniture, interior design and decor company,’ this family business will help you with your home designing needs.

Fernie Brewing Company, 26 Manitou Road - Craft beer to quench your thirst after a day on the trails!

Tipple Craft Beer Wine Spirits, 792A 2nd Avenue - A wide variety of craft alcohol drinks is available at Tipple.

Summit Cannabis Co., 1161A 7th Avenue - One of three cannabis shops in town. The others are Stick and Stone Cannabis Co. and Earth’s Own Naturals.

Barkside Pets, 791A 2nd Avenue - Shop for your furry friend at this pet supply store.

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Dine

For a small town, Fernie sure has a lot to eat. Check out this exhaustive list of restaurants, bars and more where you can find a meal, whether it be fusion, pub fare or a cocktail.

On top of the delicious plates you can grab all across town, there are loads of places to grab drinks with friends, to get into that playful, friendly spirit that so-characterizes the wonderful community of Fernie.

Alongside the unique staples listed below, we also have a Smitty’s diner, Boston Pizza, Subway, A&W, McDonald’s, Starbucks, Tim Hortons, and Dairy Queen.

Be sure to check out some of these spots when the hunger or the thirst strikes! Take your pick, and enjoy!

Himalayan Spice Bistro, 301 2nd Avenue -

Experience the wonderful tastes of the mythic Himalayas right in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Dine-in, takeout, delivery.

The Brickhouse Bar and Grill, 401 2nd Avenue

– Take a seat, order some classic food, and grab a drink in a beautiful heritage building in Fernie’s historic downtown. Dine-in, takeout.

Fernie Hotel and Pub, 691 1st Avenue – This sport-style bar is fun-loving, filled with delicious food for snacking or dining, and drinks to keep you and your friends laughing through the night. Dine-in, takeout, delivery.

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Blue Toque Gastro Diner, 601 1st Avenue –

This artsy food-spot offers up brunch, lunch, coffee, tea, and cocktails out the wazoo. Priding themselves on cross-cultural cuisine, you may find yourself scarfing down a classic Canadian breakfast or a colourfully-nutritious vermicelli bowl. Dine-in, takeout.

The Old Elevator, 291 1st Avenue - This restaurant offers very tasty and filling Chinese dishes from their House Special Chow Mein to Sweet and Sour Chicken. Dine-in, takeout.

Nevados Tapas and Tequila, 531 2nd Avenue - Set in a 110-year-old theatre in the heart of downtown Fernie, the festive Nevados offers a huge selection of imported tequilas and mezcals (and more) to go with yummy little plates of Latinstyle food, best enjoyed with friends. Dine-in.

The Lunchbox, 561A 2nd Avenue - Nutritious and delicious lunch options from creative wraps to fresh salads and smoothies. Dine-in, takeout.

Big Bang Bagels, 502 2nd Avenue - This shop offers flavourful bagels made fresh every day. You can pick up a pack to take home, or you can enjoy a ready-made breakfast bagel or ‘bagelwich’ with a coffee or smoothie. Dine-in, takeout.

Rooftop Coffee Roasters, 492 2nd Avenue

- Enjoy some very fresh craft coffee and scrumptious baked goods at this curbside cafe. They’re also a coffee roasterie with lots of bean options for you to take home or order. Indoor seating, takeout, bean delivery.

The Loaf, 641 2nd Avenue - This Italian restaurant offers something for everyone: brunch, pizza, meatballs, burgers, pasta, and so much more. Dine-in, takeout.

Freshies Café, 601A 2nd Avenue - This social café offers baked food like croissants and date squares, alongside coffees, teas, cold lattes. In the afternoon, they serve wines, cocktails, and light bites, like olives, cheese, and charcuterie platters. Dine-in, takeout.

Mugshots, 592 3rd Avenue - Billed as your ‘neighbourhood joint’, Mugshots serves breakfast, coffee, sandwiches, snacks, sweet treats, smoothies and more, all made with love! Dine-in, takeout.

The Bridge Bistro, 301 Hwy. 3 - This bistro offers hearty food for all times of day and all ages, with windows offering a marvelous mountain view.

Dine-in, takeout, delivery.

Graffito Pizza, 502A 8th Avenue - If you’re in the mood for some wood-baked Italian Neapolitanstyle pizza, stop by Graffito’s for a tasty bite! Dine-in, takeout, delivery.

The Fernie Cattle Company, 561 Hwy. 3 - Billed as Fernie’s ‘premier steakhouse’, this restaurant is sure to fulfill all your hearty, meat-eating, potatoand-vegetable-loving desires. Dine-in, takeout.

Elk Valley Pizza Shoppe, 592 8th AvenuePizza, salad, chicken wings, garlic toast, wraps, desserts, and much more, Elk Valley Pizza Shoppe is a great spot to treat you and your family. Dinein, takeout, delivery.

The Pub Bar and Grill, 742 Hwy. 3 - Located in Park Place Lodge hotel, this spot offers a jam-packed menu for the whole family. Dine-in, takeout.

The Bistro Restaurant, 742 Hwy. 3 - Also located in the Park Place Lodge hotel, this breakfast spot offers traditional eggs with meat, pancakes, eggs bennies, morning bagels, and a ‘Kid’s Mix N’ Match’. Dine-in, takeout.

Yamagoya Sushi, 741 7th Avenue - Authentic Japanese and Asian-fusion food to sate your sushi cravings. Dine-in, takeout, delivery.

Bramasole Restaurant and Wine Bar, 851 7th Avenue - This is a great spot to catch up with some friends or have a cocktail after work, featuring BC wines with appetizers and desserts. Dine-in, takeout.

The Curry Bowl, 931 7th Avenue - Asian cuisine offering Thai, Japanese, Indian, and Vietnamese dishes. Dine-in, takeout, delivery.

Cast Iron Grill, 201 Fairway Drive - Part of the Fernie Golf Club, this restaurant offers delicious home-cooked comfort food like steak, prime rib, fresh salads, soups, gravies, and more! Reservations preferred. Dine-in, takeout.

Sushi Wood Fernie, 1221A 7th AvenueJapanese and Korean BBQ food with lots of sushi and drinks! Dine-in, takeout, delivery.

Fernie Pizza and Pasta, 1221 7th AvenueJust what it sounds like: classic pizza, specialty pizza, pasta, salads, desserts, with ‘flavour of India’ options including a unique Shahi Paneer Poutine. Dine-in, takeout, delivery.

Miner’s Mud, 1390 McLeod Avenue - This mobile cafe serves organic, fair trade coffee and fresh baked goods ‘to fuel your adventures.’ Takeout, outdoor.

Cirque Restaurant and Bar, 5346 Highline Drive - Part of Lizard Creek Lodge at the Fernie Alpine

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Resort, this high-end restaurant offers appetizers like salads, baked brie, and truffle fries, and mains like pasta, burgers, steak, and much more. They have drinks for you and your friends, and an ‘Ice Bar’ that you will definitely want to check out. Dine-in, takeout.

The Rusty Edge, 5369 Fernie Ski Hill RoadLocated at the ski hill next to the Elk Chair, this place has yummy food and drink to fill you up after a day a play. Dine-in, takeout.

Legends Mountain Eatery, 5339 Fernie Ski Hill Road - Located at the Fernie Alpine Resort, this afternoon restaurant has lunch food to satisfy the bellies of adults and kids alike. Burgers, chicken fingers, salads, poutines, alcohol and non-alcohol drinks, and more. Dine-in, takeout.

The Northern Bar and Stage, 561 2nd Avenue - Have a great night at the restaurant that has been voted the ‘Best Live Music Venue’ and ‘Best Place To Shake Your Booty’ in Fernie Fix online polls. Food, drink, sports to watch, and live music. Dine-in, takout.

Indian Kitchen Tandoor and Grill, 100 Riverside Way - Located at the Fernie Stanford Resort, this restaurant offers authentic and delicious Indian food like samosa, chicken malai tikka, channa masala, beef biryani, and so much more. Dine-in, takeout, delivery.

Chilango, 1302B Hwy. 3 - Check out this new Mexican food restaurant in town! It’s sure to be delicious. Dine-in, takeout.

Local producers

Fernie is filled with all kinds of delicious and unique restaurants. Here’s a few of the local establishments that are local producers as well.

Local, 632 2nd Avenue

Located right in the heart of town, Local is relatively fresh on the market (having opened their doors on Dec. 15, 2020), but already seeing success. Their whole raison d’etre is to provide a consistent, year-round market space for local farmers and producers to sell their goods. Their shelves and fridges are always stocked with veggies and scrumptious frozen meals. If local food is what you love, this shop is for you.

Fernie Brewing Company, 26 Manitou Road

The motto of this craft beer brewing company is: “As simple as good beer, from a good town.” These guys have a wonderful array of tasty beers to wet your pallet. Sample their product in-house and enjoy snacks and good company while doing so! Or, pick up a pack of their drinks at an alcohol vendor.

Fernie Distillers, 531 1st Avenue

This distillery has a deep pride and passion for Fernie and for their craft. They pay homage our town’s multi-faceted nature and people, saying: “At Fernie Distillers, we’ve handcrafted our spirits to reflect it all.” They also donate half the proceeds of their tastings to local groups in the region, an initiative they call ‘Community Spirit Tastings’. You can’t go wrong by stopping by their shop and sampling what these talented distillers have to offer.

Fernie Alpine Springs, 1501 10th Avenue

The kombucha brewed by this Fernie company is made with spring water from the Rocky Mountains along with other natural ingredients, according to their website. Tours and tastings are available for this delicious, organic home-grown product. “Inspired by the people and the beautiful nature of the Canadian Rockies, they have been brewing their unique and refined kombucha with love and happiness in a small mountain town called Fernie.” They sum up their values with the words: “One Life. Share with passion.”

Rooftop Coffee Roasters, 492 2nd Avenue

If you love the smell of coffee, then you must stop by this family-run shop on Fernie’s 2nd Avenue. These wonderful bakers, brewers, and roasters work to serve craft coffee and baked goods to customers, and to freshly roast, prepare, and

deliver unique coffee beans far and wide. You can catch a glimpse of them working away in the roasting room when you order your coffee and baked goodies. This spot is great for a sweet treat and a warm drink when the winter winds are blowing.

House of Gato, 601 2nd Avenue

Sweet, flakey-fresh baked goods stuffed with all kinds of deliciousness is the specialty of this boutique pastry shop in Fernie. These folks are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth in the best possible way. Cakes, fresh pastries, and artisan bread, all ‘made from the heart.’ They also have lunch options like a daily sandwich, quiche, spinach roll, and more, with coffee, tea, and hot cocoa for those cold winter days.

Beanpod, 691 2nd Avenue

Home of the famous Fernie bars, these chocolate specialists say they are one of the original bean-to-bar companies in Canada. They make chocolate the old-fashioned way, with organic beans sourced directly from farmers. Using authentic stone grinding machines, these producers make ‘chocolate as it should be.’ Check out these unique chocolatiers if you’re looking for a special Fernie treat!

Le Bon Pain, 792 3rd Avenue

There’s nothing quite like the smell of a warm, fresh loaf of bread, and this authentic French artisinal bakery specializes in just that. They make sourdough bread with long fermentation, which gives a special taste, nice texture and reduces gluten. All their breads and pastries are handcrafted with organic flour from the nearby town, Creston, and are baked fresh everyday with passion and joy. They also offer fair trade Colombian coffee and locally-brewed kombucha on tap, and more!

Hotels, Resorts, Motels & Lodging

Fernie Fox Hotel 2021 3 Hwy S, Fernie 1-877-447 6788

Best Western Plus Fernie Mountain Lodge 1622 7 Ave, Fernie 1-866-423-5566

Griz Inn 5369 Fernie Ski Hill Rd, Fernie 1-800-661-0118

Red Tree Lodge 1101 7 Ave, Fernie 1-250-423-4622

Fernie Stanford Resort 100 Riverside Way, Fernie 1-877-423-5600

Snow Valley Lodging 1041 7 Ave, Fernie 1-250-423-4421

Fernie Lodging Company 4559-B Timberline Crescent, Fernie 1-800-667-9911

Park Place Lodge 742 BC-3, Fernie 1-888-381-7275

Fernie Slopeside Lodge 5339 Fernie Ski Hill Rd, Fernie 1-800-258-7669

Canada’s Best Value Inn Fernie 401 Crowsnest Hwy, Fernie 1-877-326-8888

Cornerstone Lodge 5339 Fernie Ski Hill Rd, Fernie 1-888-423-6855

Powder Mountain Lodge 892 BC-3, Fernie 1-844-433-7643

East Kootenay Motel

1302 Hwy 3, Fernie 1-250-423-9266

Alpine Lodge 5291 Highline Drive, Fernie 1-250-423-4237

Elk View Lodge 3934 Cokato Rd, Fernie 1-250-423-9034

Kimbers Timbers 5205 Highline Dr, Fernie 1-403-860-7355

Hotels, Resorts, Motels & Lodging

The Lodge at Fernie 4502 Timberline Cres, Fernie

1-406-871-6115

Fernie Tightlines Lodge 821 7 Ave, Fernie 1-250-423-4483

Bed & Breakfasts

Brooks Creek Ranch 100 Lladner Creek FSR, Fernie 1 866-288-1418

Blackstone Bed & Breakfast 30 Piedmont Dr, Fernie 1-250-425-3637

Birch Meadows Lodge B&B 4485 BC-3, Fernie 1-250-423-4236

Island Lake Lodge Summer B&B 1-888-422-8754

Canadian Powder Tours Ski & Bike Adventure Lodge 1410 McDonald Ave, Fernie 1-250-423-3019

Twisted Timber Guest House

9 Alpine Trail, Fernie 1-250-423-6425

Old Nurses Residence B&B 802 4 Ave, Fernie 1-250-423-3091

Condos & Townhomes

Lizard Creek Lodge & Condominiums 5346 Highline Drive, Fernie 1 (877) 228-1948

Fernie Central Reservations Condos & Townhomes

1-800-622-5007

Something a little different

TINY HOMES at Snow Valley Lodging 1041 7 Ave, Fernie 1-250-423-4421

PODS at Raging Elk Adventure Lodging 892 6th Ave, Fernie 1-250-423-6811

YURTS at Fernie RV Resort 2001 6th Ave, Fernie 1 844-343-2233

If you’re a hockey fan, you’re in luck. Fernie is home to a great Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL) team, the beloved Ghostriders. Named after a local legend, the Fernie Ghostriders play lots of home games at the Memorial Arena.

The Ghostriders

Here is a schedule of the Ghostrider home games for the 2022-2023 regular season, in case you fancy a night of beer, popcorn, and cheering at the arena.

Sat, Sept. 24 - Fernie vs. Columbia Valley, 7:30p.m.

Sat, Oct. 8 - Fernie vs. Kimberley, 7:30p.m.

Fri, Oct. 14 - Fernie vs. Kamloops, 7:30p.m.

Fri, Oct. 21 - Fernie vs. Sicamous, 7:30p.m.

Tue, Oct. 25 - Fernie vs. Creston Valley, 7:30p.m.

Tue, Nov. 1 - Fernie vs. Golden, 7:30p.m.

Thu, Nov. 10 - Fernie vs. Columbia Valley, 7:30p.m.

Sat, Nov. 12 - Fernie vs. Beaver Valley, 7:30p.m.

Sun, Nov. 13 - Fernie vs. Grand Forks, 5:00p.m.

Sat, Nov. 19 - Fernie vs. Nelson, 7:30p.m.

Sat, Nov. 26 - Fernie vs. 100 Mile House, 7:30p.m.

Sat, Dec. 3 - Fernie vs. Golden, 7:30p.m.

Tue, Dec. 6 - Fernie vs. Columbia Valley, 7:30p.m.

Sat, Dec. 10 - Fernie vs. Revelstoke, 7:30p.m.

Wed, Dec. 28 - Fernie vs. Kimberley, 7:30p.m.

2022/2023

Sat, Jan. 7 - Fernie vs. Castlegar, 7:30p.m.

Fri, Jan. 13 - Fernie vs. Chase, 7:30p.m.

Sat, Jan. 14 - Fernie vs. Golden, 7:30p.m.

Fri, Jan. 27 - Fernie vs. Kimberley, 7:30p.m.

Sat, Jan. 28 - Fernie vs. Creston Valley, 7:30p.m.

Sun, Feb. 5 - Fernie vs. Columbia Valley, 5:00p.m.

Sat, Feb. 11 - Fernie vs. Creston Valley, 7:30p.m.

For more information, visit www.fernieghostriders.com.

Elkford

Fernie isn’t the only community in the valley with a lot going for it – we’ve already touched on what attractions you can find in Elkford and Sparwood when it comes to fatbiking and nordic skiing, but there’s a lot more to find.

Elkford, which you can find at the end of Hwy. 43, is a wildnerness wonderland through the summer months, and in winter the upper valley transforms into a mecca for outdoor winter activities.

Built as a commuity to support the mining industry in the 1970s, Elkford is young at heart with snowshoeing, nordic skiing, downhill skiing, snowmobiling and more. The community has well-established and active outdoor associations that keep trails open and well-maintained, so if you visit you’ll find the outdoors calling.

The snowmobile season in Elkford usually runs from November through to May, and sometimes even longer. Experience fresh snow, high mountain passes, and low valleys and basins that will take your breath away.

At the end of Hwy. 43 you can find Elkford, with great trails, amazing hunting, and lots of back-country draw. Home to 2,749 people according to the 2021 census, Elkford has a lot of heart.

Conditions in the area range from beginnerfriendly trails suitable for the whole family, to virtually limitless rugged alpine terrain for advanced sledders.

Avalanche activity in the backcountry can be very high, so riders are asked to be prepared, monitor current conditions and pack adequate safety gear so they come home safe at the end of the day.

For more information about snowmobiling trails and trail passes, contact the Elkford Snowmobile Association through elkfordtrails.com.

But the outdoors aren’t all Elkford is aboutthe long winters mean locals take full advantage of the outdoors while keeping warm and cosy indoors. The community is well-appointed with the Elkford Aquatic Centre that has a four-lane pool, a Recreation Centre with an arena for ice skating, and an award-winning community centre that keeps events going over the cooler months.

Steve Reid Photo

Events around Fernie

Winter is a special time to get out and experience all that Fernie has to offer.

The beauty of our winter wonderland will certainly call many people outdoors, but for those who want to stay warm and do something fun indoors, there are lots of craft fairs, art galleries and museum exhibits to check out. Also, be sure to check the schedules at our local bars for musical events!

Here are some indoor activities to consider if you are passing through town in the winter months.

Fernie FAST Ski Swap and Fernie Ski and Board Film Fest

The Fernie Community Centre

Nov. 4, 6 to 8 p.m., and Nov. 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

A ski and snowboard gear sale along with movies to get stoked for the winter season. Drop-off and consignment Friday night with the sale on Saturday.

Light up the Arts

The Arts Station

Nov. 25, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

A public arts festival where artists will display light themed installations.

Twilight and Holiday Craft Fairs

The Fernie Community Centre

Nov. 25, 5 to 9 p.m. and Nov. 26, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Get a head start on Christmas shopping and support local artisans at these back-to-back craft fairs.

Women of Michel exhibit

The Fernie Museum

Until Nov. 27

View art created by four artists born in the defunct coal mining town of Michel.

Second Skin, Saving the Planet One Garment at a Time exhibit

The Fernie Museum Dec. 15 through March

This exhibit will present a range of handmade,

bespoke wearable art creations from members of the Fernie Spinners and Weavers Guild.

Stocking Stuffers Craft Fair

The Fernie Community Centre

Dec. 17, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Another great opportunity for holiday shopping!

Items from local artisans will range from hats, jewellery, cupcakes, blankets, homemade goods, bath products and more.

Beth Gallup Gallery Show

The Arts Station

Dec. 29, 7 to 9 p.m.

An art exhibit that builds on the philosophical view of objects as a place of discovery about our perceptions of reality.

Theo Robinson Gallery Show

The Arts Station

Jan. 26, 7 to 9 p.m.

An exhibit with artwork heavily influenced by the minimalist and abstract elements of the emerging post-graffiti and graffuturism movements.

Alexandra Kozak Gallery Show

The Arts Station

Feb. 23, 7 to 9 p.m.

An exhibit featuring a collection of paintings exploring the visible spectrum, inspired by things like atmospheric phenomena, astronomy and geosciences.

Griz Days Craft Fair

The Fernie Community Centre

March 4, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This craft fair is part of the Griz Days weekend and is always full of crafts, baked goods, jewellery, preserves, hand-made clothing, art, toys, and more.

Spring Craft Fair

The Fernie Community Centre

May 6, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

All kinds of seasonal artisinally crafted goods will be available at this fair.

Committing to Safety On and Off-site

At Teck, safety is a core value and we believe in everyone going home safe and healthy every day—even outside of work.

That’s why we continue to support the Avalanche Canada South Rockies Field Team, who collect backcountry snow data in the Elk Valley and Crowsnest Pass for the detailed South Rockies avalanche report.

Check the conditions before you set out at www.avalanche.ca