At a Glance
Over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain
Up to 11.2m of snow in a season
Suitable for all abilities
Big mountain skiing
Small vibrant town
Skiing in Fernie
Expect epic snow, impressive mountains and big lines. This resort has 142 named runs (30% of which are geared towards advanced skiers), steep tree skiing and copious amounts of off piste skiing available for intermediate and expert skiers alike. You are guaranteed the biggest vertical, most snow and most ski runs in the Rocky Mountains.
Fernie is slightly off the beaten track for all the CMH lodges, but well worth a detour.
Powder Watch
This resort is part of what is known as the ‘powder highway’, is arguably one of the best resorts in North America for skiing powder. The resort’s five Alpine bowls, chutes and long tree runs guarantee some truly epic steep and deep skiing. This hidden gem in the Rockies is a favourite amongst those seeking to shred the fresh tracks!
How do I get there?
Fernie is just over a 3-hour drive from Calgary airport, which has direct flights from London Heathrow with Air Canada and London Gatwick with WestJet. The easiest way to get to the resort is by hire car or private transfer which the team can help organise for you. There are also regular shuttle buses which run on Wednesday – Sunday from Calgary Airport.
Pure Powder Recommends
The Historic 901
Based in the town of Fernie, this accommodation used to be an old school which has now been restored into luxury, large self-service apartments with a modern mountain feel. Amenities include gourmet kitchens and fireplaces and a hot tub in the common area. It is also only a short 10–minute drive to the ski hill and a quick walk to downtown Fernie.
For Alternative Stays…
Lizard Creek Lodge
If you want to be close to the action, this lodge has great ski-in/ski-out access to the Elk Quad chair and offers comfortable affordable accommodation with a fireplace, kitchenette and balcony in every room. There is also a heated outdoor pool and hot tub on-site, not to mention the best après in Fernie – the Ice Bar.
Best Western Mountain Lodge
If you prefer a hotel option, then you could stay at the Best Western Mountain Lodge which is situated in town. Hotel amenities include an indoor swimming pool, both indoor and outdoor hot tubs and a fitness centre. It is just a short bus ride away from the slopes.
Pure Powder Loves
√ How quiet the slopes are – Fernie has a huge amount of skiing with very few skiers (especially during the week).
√ Strolling down the high street and popping into the local independent shops.
Things to Consider
– Fernie is not near any CMH pick up or drop off points so we highly recommend having a hire car or booking a private transfer if you do choose this resort as a pre heli warm up (or post heli trip!)
– The ski hill, like Revelstoke, is a bit further away from downtown Fernie.