Fernie, BC – The Ultimate Canadian Rockies Ski Escape for Powder Lovers

The Skiing and Snowboarding Experience

The numbers speak for themselves. Fernie Alpine Resort boasts an average annual snowfall of over 9 metres (yes, metres). The snow here is famously light and dry, creating perfect powder conditions that many ski areas can only envy. Covering over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, with a vertical drop of over 1,000 metres, the resort’s 145 named runs offer everything from gentle groomers for beginners to steep chutes and glades to challenge expert skiers.

With terrain spread across five expansive alpine bowls – Currie, Lizard, Cedar, Timber, and Siberia – each have their own personality. Currie Bowl is a paradise for powder hounds, offering wide-open faces and challenging lines. Lizard Bowl, with its sweeping runs and panoramic views, is ideal for intermediates. Cedar Bowl’s long, winding trails are perfect for those who want to savour the scenery between turns. Timber Bowl is filled with options for those that love gladed terrain and cruise through Siberia Bowl on the resorts longest run (7km!).

Snowboarders love Fernie’s natural features – pillows, drops, and playful gullies are scattered across the mountain. There’s also a rail park for those who like their snow with a side of freestyle.

For beginners, Fernie is surprisingly friendly. The lower mountain has gentle learning areas, and their TELUS Winter Sports School professionals offer a variety of lessons, family coaching and speciality clinics.

Fernie’s Historic Downtown

Despite its world-class credentials, Fernie has retained the authenticity of a true mountain town. Locals greet you with a smile, lift lines are short (even during peak season), and there’s an unpretentious spirit that makes you feel part of the community from the moment you arrive.

The charming Historic Downtown is only a 10-minute drive from the resort and also serviced by a regularly scheduled shuttle.  Framed by the dramatic backdrop of the Lizard Range, the streets are lined with century-old heritage brick buildings. Here you’ll find artisan coffee shops, galleries, and locally owned boutique shops. 

When it comes to après-ski, options range from cosy pubs serving local craft beer to lively restaurants offering everything from gourmet dining to hearty mountain fare. 

Accommodation – Stay On-Mountain or In-Town

Visitors can choose from a diverse selection of lodging including spacious ski-in ski-out chalets and luxurious condominiums to accommodate couples, families and friends. Cozy up beside the fireplace, relax in an outdoor hot tub and take in the mountain views from your deck.  

Either stay slopeside at Fernie Alpine Resort, where ski-in/ski-out lodges make mornings effortless, or in downtown Fernie, where the historic setting and local dining are just steps away. Shuttle buses connect the town and the resort throughout the day, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Beyond the Slopes

While Fernie Alpine Resort is the main attraction, winter offers much more than just skiing. There are an abundance of trails to explore in a variety of ways:

• Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing – Discover peaceful forest trails and wide-open valley views on dedicated trails, with equipment rentals available in town and at the resort.
• Fat Biking – Try cycling on snow-covered trails using special wide-tyre bikes – a fun and unique way to explore in the winter. Guided tours & rentals available.
• Cat Skiing – For the adventurous, Fernie has world-class cat skiing operations, where you travel by a snowcat into pristine, untouched terrain with certified guides.
• Snowmobiling – Guided adventure tours and riding clinics take you deeper into the backcountry with professional support.

Getting to Fernie from the UK

From the UK, Fernie is easily reached via Calgary International Airport (YYC), which has direct flights from London Heathrow. From Calgary, it’s a three-hour scenic drive through the foothills and into the heart of the Rockies. Car hire is straightforward, and many visitors enjoy the freedom it offers for exploring the area, shuttle transfers are also available for those who prefer to sit back and take in the views.

Book Your Fernie Ski Adventure

Fernie’s ski season runs from early December to mid-April. January and February are the peak months for powder, while March brings longer days and often milder days with bluebird skies. 

Fernie, BC isn’t just another ski destination – it’s an experience. Vast powder-filled bowls, charming Canadian hospitality, and an authentic mountain town make it one of the most rewarding winter trips you can take. Now’s the perfect time to plan your Canadian ski holiday to Fernie.

Contact your local tour operator or travel agent to book your vacation and for more information visit Tourism Fernie.

All images courtesy of Tourism Fernie