Fly-Fishing

If fly fishing is how you like to wind down, the East Kootenay region will likely be one of the greatest experiences you will have. Cutthroat Trout, Bull Trout and Rocky Mountain Whitefish are in abundance in the many local lakes and rivers.
Professional fly fishing guides can lead you to those secret stashes in the Elk, Bull, Wigwam and Flathead Rivers as well the dozens of other rivers and lakes in southern British Columbia. For a complete list of guides check out the OurFernie business directory here.

Hiking

The mountains in Fernie, although beautiful, are not so tall that they require multi-day treks to get to the peaks. Typically, a day pack, some good footwear, the appropriate layers of clothes and four to six hours of hiking will get you up and down all the local peaks.

Another highly recommnded trail is known as Heiko’s Trail (named after Heiko Socher, the founder of Snow Valley, now known as Fernie Alpine Resort). This scenic 18km trail starts behind the Three Sister passing waterfalls and a large cave en route to Island Lake Lodge.

A nice hike in town is the Coal Creek Heritage Trail which starts behind the Aquatic Centre and heads up Coal Creek to the old town site which was abandoned in the 1950’s.

For a guided hike, get in touch with Steve and Janet at Mountain Pursuits. mountainpursuits.com

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is what brought us to Fernie. We love being in a community where mountain bikes seem to be the preferred mode of transportation for many. The Fernie trail system continues to expand on all fronts…easy riding city trail, old school single track and wicked downhills. The best riding you will find east of the North Shore.

Don’t forget to pick up your “Fernie Trail Guide” at one of the many local bike shops. A must for any mountain biker, this map shows every trail in town! You can also check out the OurFernie trail guide here.

You could spend an entire summer here and barely hit the same trail twice. Easy riding riverside trails…technical singletrack…jumps… stunts…really insane stuff! Whatever you are looking for.

Rafting & Tubing

Canyon Raft Company and Mountain High River Adventures offer amazing trips down the Elk and Bull Rivers. Whether you seeking a tranquil float while watching the scenery or some heart stopping white water (up to Class 3), rafting provides a unique perspective on the region.

If your goal is to simply cool off after a hike or mountain bike ride, get an inner tube and get dropped off at Fernie’s north bridge, then float downstream to the boat launch just below our house.

Skiing & Snowboarding

The Fernie Alpine Resort continues to win accolades. Voted #1 North American Resort by The Good Skiing & Snowboarding Guide 2004 for its varied terrain, its unbelievable powder and the fact that it is relatively undeveloped (leave your pretentious attitude at home or take it to Whistler!). The City of Fernie’s cross-country trail system is well maintained and accessed just below the house.

Back country opportunities abound but should only be undertaken by those with proper experience and equipment.