Fernie
Fernie
About Fernie
Known for Legendary Powder, Famous for So Much More! Located in the spectacular Canadian Rockies in British Columbia, Fernie Alpine Resort is a world-class destination ski resort with an authentic ski town atmosphere and tonnes of history including the Legend of the Griz, the mythical figure who brings legendary powder snow to the mountains.
Fernie Ski Holiday
Fernie Alpine Resort, set amid the Canadian Rockies in British Columbia, is legendary for its Champagne-powder snow and uncrowded slopes. With over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, five iconic alpine bowls and abundant tree runs, it offers a dramatic and authentic mountain experience for discerning travellers.
Where is Fernie?
Nestled in south-eastern British Columbia, Fernie is roughly a three-hour drive south from Calgary. Visitors from Australia can fly into Calgary or Cranbrook via Vancouver, then enjoy a breathtaking scenic drive through the Rockies. Road conditions are generally ok, with no challenging mountain passes.
Flying from Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne, you can fly into Vancouver or Calgary with many airlines. For a more direct route into Vancouver travellers can look at flying Qantas and Air Canada.
Where to stay in Fernie?
When deciding where to stay in Fernie you can choose between the charming ski-town of Fernie, with boutique dining and artisanal shops, or stay on-mountain for seamless slope access and mountain views.
Best Value Hotel’s in Fernie?
Fernie Slopeside Lodge offers budget friendly accommodation right at the base of the mountain, perfect for ski-in convenience. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms and easy access to local favourites, including Legends Mountain Eatery, Griz Bar and Cirque Restaurant.
Best Luxury Hotel’s in Fernie?
Lizard Creek is a go to choice for those looking for an upscale property with fireplaces, full kitchens, spa-like amenities, pool and hot tubs. With ski-in, ski-out access with in a private setting you will be transported to winter wonderland. This property has an outdoor pool and hot tubs to help unwind from a day on the slopes.
Best Hotel’s for Families in Fernie?
Lizard Creek is a great option for families going on a ski holiday to Fernie. This property is ski-in, ski-out, offers spacious accommodations from studios to multi room condos, some featuring fireplaces and kitchenettes. Parents will love the spa amenities, and the kids will enjoy the outdoor heated pool. Located in a private setting it makes for a great base for a family ski holiday.
Where to ski in Fernie?
Fernie boasts a high vertical drop of 1,082 m (3,550 ft), serviced by 10 lifts and 145 trails across 2,500+ acres of terrain. The terrain is split into novice, intermediate, advances, expert and extreme, catering to all ability levels.
Beginner and intermediate: Gentle groomed runs and accessible bowls. The Falling Star blue run is a scenic 5 km descent.
Advanced to expert: Steep chutes, untouched glades and expert lines in bowls like Lizard, Currie, Siberia, Timber and Cedar—they offer thrilling, untamed terrain for confident skiers.
Champagne-powder conditions help amplify the experience, along with minimal lift lines and wide-open space.
Our Teams Recommendations for skiing in Fernie?
Amanda: I loved boarding in Lizard Bowl. It has more runs out any of Fernie’s bowls, so you just spend all day in this area. But you can’t go wrong with any of the bowls at Fernie.
Is Fernie good for non-skiers?
Absolutely. Non-skiers can enjoy many non skiing activities at Fernie Alpine Resort, ot in the town of Fernie. Perfect rest day activities on mountain include fat biking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, sleighrides, a spa, and a calendar full of seasonal events.
We also recommend taking a trip into the town of Fernie. History can be seen throughout store fronts of a mining town that once was. Town of Fernie also offers a vibrant après-scene, boutique shops and cultural charm.
Our Teams Fave things to do in Fernie?
Amanda: Spend a day in downtown Fernie, its a historic township. Home of the famous bean-to-bar chocolate bars. Its similar atmosphere of Banff but less crowded. Fun Fact: Hot Tub Time Machine was filmed at Fernie. I would recommend checking out some of the filming locations.
Fernie FAQs
How much snow does Fernie get?
Around 29 feet/ 9m of annual snowfall. Fernie is reliable for deep, soft powder.
What’s the ski season?
Typically early December to mid-April, with conditions peaking January through to March .
What about lift capacity and crowding?
Fernie’s 10 lifts including two high-speed quads can move nearly 15,000 skiers per hour. Expect minimal queues and a more authentic, relaxed pace ski resort.
How can I get from town to mountain?
A free “FernieStoke” shuttle runs seasonally. Otherwise, taxis and private shuttles are available.
Is Fernie beginner-friendly?
Yes! 13% of the terrain is novice friendly and 30% intermediate, which is great for those looking to progress their skills fast. Fernie also offers lessons ability levels.
TL;DR
Fernie Alpine Resort offers luxurious access to legendary powder, dramatic bowls, and a host of premium ski-in places to stay—from elegant family lodges to private chalets with hot tubs. It delivers unmatched terrain diversity with minimal crowds, and plenty of activities for non-skiers. Ideal for Australian luxury travellers seeking real mountain culture and world-class skiing.
