Longer days mean road trip season has officially arrived, and spring is a great time of year to get out and explore the best that B.C. has to offer. Although technically a city, Fernie really encapsulates the small-town feel. There’s a century-old downtown to roam, intriguing local legends to uncover, and a serene location to explore in the heart of the Rockies. What’s more, Fernie is the only B.C. city to be completely engulfed in the iconic mountain range!
Founded in 1898 upon the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railroad, Fernie became the centre of coal production in the surrounding Elk Valley. The townspeople had a rougher start than most, facing mine disasters, fires, floods, and even a town curse.
One of North America’s “coolest towns”
Today, Fernie is considered one of the “coolest towns in North America,” according to Rolling Stone Magazine, captivating travellers from all directions.
The city is located three hours away from Calgary, 11 hours away from Vancouver, and two hours away from Montana, U.S.
Fairy Creek Falls Trail is a great family hike that follows Fairy Creek to a picturesque waterfall at the base of Mount Proctor. Catch it in mid to late spring to see it in full flow! It’ll be loud and misty up close — a perfect way to cool down during the warmer summer days.
Given its location and fascinating history, Fernie has plenty to offer mountain lovers year-round. Tourism Fernie says that mid to late spring is the best time to wander the Fairy Creek Falls Trail, which follows Fairy Creek to a stunning waterfall at the base of Mount Proctor. During this time of year, the falls are loud and misty, offering the perfect spot to cool down during the warmer months.
Another “epic” hike to add to your list is the 21 km trek of Heiko’s Trail, which includes numerous landmarks such as the gargantuan Bisaro Cave.
Along this trail, hikers will pass through cliff walls, waterfalls, mountain passes, canyons, alpine meadows, and more.
If you’re looking to stay in Fernie’s centre, Maiden Lake is a great place to enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Trinity and Mount Proctor without venturing too far off the beaten path. The small lake and sandy beach is a popular paddling spot, though swimming is not recommended. Instead, those keen on swimming should check out the nearby Silver Springs, Surveyors Lake, Tie Lake, or Loon Lake.
Canada’s first tiny home hotel
Looking for a place to stay overnight? There’s a mix of tiny homes, yurts, B&Bs, resorts, and lodges for trips of all sizes and preferences.
This includes the Tiny Homes at Snow Valley Lodging — Canada’s first tiny home hotel. Here, visitors have access to an “adventure basecamp,” and can enjoy full amenities like complimentary laundry service, free cruiser bike rentals, and access to a shared outdoor patio space.
You’ll also find roomy, boutique-style sleeping pods at the nearby Raging Elk Adventure Lodge if you’re looking for a comfortable place to spend the night.
Fernie on the silver screen
At the heart of Fernie is its perfectly preserved historic downtown on 2nd Avenue from 3rd to 9th Street, which can be seen onscreen in films such as the 2018 Liam Neeson film Cold Pursuit or the 2010 blockbuster Hot Tub Time Machine.
Most of the heritage buildings date back to 1908 and 1909 — a rarity in small-town B.C., according to Tourism Fernie.
And since parking is free downtown, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore the town’s vibrant shops, galleries, cafes, restaurants, and heritage buildings.
It’s certainly a trek there from Vancouver, but Fernie is absolutely a spot to add to your spring and summer bucket lists.
How to get there: Drive 10 hours and 30 minutes from Vancouver to Fernie via Crowsnest Highway/BC-3 E.
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