This 5,000 resident town at the foot of Trinity Mountain is a year-round recreation center. It lies in the wide Elk Valley, midway between Cranbrook and Sparwood on the #3 Crowsnest Highway. Fernie is known for its brick and stone buildings in its well-preserved downtown area. There is skiing in winter, and several lakes nearby for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and mountain biking.
Fernie lies on the Crowsnest Route #3 about 100 km east of Cranbrook, and about 160 km west of Fort MacLeod, Alberta, and about a 3 hour drive (310km) from Calgary’s Internernational Airport.
Fernie Annual Events
Power, Pedal, Paddle Relay Race (April), Fernie Sports 5 & 10 k Run (June), Bikers’ Toy Run (June), ‘The Gathering’ Island Lake Folk Festival (August), Harvest Fair (August), Mud ‘n’ Madness Mountain Bike race (Aug), Kootenay Cruisers Show’n’Shine (Sept), Lions Demolition Derby (Sept), Craft & Flea Market (Oct).
Fernie History
The area around Fernie was inhabited by the Ktunaxa First Nation,who were there for many thousands of years.
In the late 1800s, the discovery of coal in the Elk Valley region attracted attention as a critical rsources for the railroads and for home heating. In the early 1890s, William Fernie, along with James Morris, Colonel James Baker, and John Nimick, recognized the potential for mining in the area. In 1898, the town of Fernie was officially established, named after William Fernie. Fernie’s population grew rapidly, as the town became a bustling regional hub of the coal mining industr.
The early 1900s saw significant labor unrest in Fernie. Miners fought for improved working conditions and wagesm which led to the 1902 coal miners’ strike, a pivotal event in Fernie’s history.
In August 1908, The Great Fire swept through Fernie, destroying most of the town’s wooden buildings. The town was rebuilt in the more substantial and fire-resistant materials like brick and stone that we see along today’s Main Street. Over time, Fernie’s economy diversified beyond coal mining into forestry and tourism. The surrounding natural beauty and rugged terrain attracted outdoor enthusiasts, and Fernie became known for its many year-round recreational opportunities.
Since the 1970s, Fernie transformed as a popular tourist destination with the nearby Fernie Alpine Resort and its world-class skiing facilities drew visitors from around the globe.
Other Links
Fernie Attractions
Mount Fernie Provincial Campground
4.8 km east of town
250-422-3003
website
This area is popular for mountain biking and the opportunity for fishing in the nearby Elk River.
Fernie Alpine Resort
5 km southwest of town, off highway 3
5339 Fernie Ski Hill Rd.
Fernie, BC V0B 1M6
250-423-4655
Fax: 250-423-6644
1-877-333-2339
Website
Known for Legendary Powder,this world-class, destination ski resort combines ski town atmosphere with tons of history. With an annual snowfall of over 29ft, varied terrain including 5 unique bowls over 2,504 acres, and lodging options from ski-in/ski-out chalets to 5-star hotels.
Island Lake Lodge
602A 2nd Ave, Fernie, BC V0B 1M5
250-423-3700
Website
Nestled in the mountains, Island Lake Lodge offers stunning natural surroundings and outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, and cat skiing during winter.
Fernie Museum
491 2nd Ave, Fernie, BC V0B 1M0
250-423-7016
Website
This museum , on the main street, showcases the history and culture of Fernie and the Elk Valley region through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.
Coal Creek Heritage Trail
Interpretive signs located along the trail, Fernie, BC
Website
A self-guided walking trail that provides insights into the region’s coal mining history with informative signs and beautiful natural scenery.
Fernie Ghost Tour
Starting point varies, Fernie, BC
250-423-9252
Website
This guided tour takes you through the historic downtown area, sharing spooky tales and local legends of Fernie’s past.
Fernie Aquatic Centre
250 Pine Ave, Fernie, BC V0B 1M0
250-423-4466
website
A modern aquatic facility with a pool, hot tub, water slides, and fitness amenities, suitable for individuals and families.