Head out and explore the Canadian Rockies by foot. We are spoiled by the range of hiking options in Fernie.
Whether you're looking for a short hike with the family, an adventurous day hike into the alpine, or something in between, Fernie has it covered. These are only a snippet of what Fernie has to offer hikers. Be sure to check out our hiking section for more inspiring options.
When hiking please Leave No Trace, be Wildsafe and AdventureSmart
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This challenging loop trail begins from the Fernie Visitor Centre climbing to the summit of Mt Proctor at 2390 m. Definitely start this hike early in the day. Mount Proctor is an all-day intensive hike allowing adventurers to enjoy big views all the way.
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 get cool during the warmer summer days.
The most epic of hikes in Fernie and definitely one for your 'to-do' list. The gargantuan Bisaro Cave is just one of the amazing landmarks you'll see along the 21km Heiko's Trail. You'll also be passing waterfalls, cliff walls, big mountain passes, canyons, mountain meadows, wildlife and more. Plan a long full day.
Enjoy lush forests and winding trails around the perimeter of the campground in Mt Fernie Provincial Park. Great for a morning or afternoon nature hike or extend into the multi-use trails beyond such as Ben Emmett and Happy Gilmar, just keep an ear out for mountain bikers and share the trails.
It's hard to ignore the iconic trapezoid face of Mt. Fernie from town. This popular half day hike switchbacks through dense forest, you'll cross chutes shaped by winter avalanches, and finish with a rocky scramble to the ridge top.
The legendary Old Growth Trail up to Island Lake Lodge tours through ancient Cedars, Douglas Fir and Spruce. Plan for 1.5 - 2 hours one-way. Please note Island Lake Lodge is only open on select days. We highly recommend checking their operations calendar if you wish to use their access road or plan to stop in at the Lodge for lunch.
Three Sisters Hike is rewarding to say the least - reaching the highest peak visible from town. The beginning is also the start of Heiko’s Trail, including a waterfall, cave and canyon, but instead of continuing you'll head up Three Sisters and come back the same way you started.
The Resort typically opens late June with a variety of activities including scenic chairlift rides, lift-access mountain biking, and hiking. Boom Trail and Gorbie Flats provide great views of the valley and forests and starts with a chairlift ride up to the start, be sure to include the Observation Deck too!
For a short and easy option at Island Lake Lodge drive up to the Lodge and enjoy the leisurely hike around the lake. The Fir Trail can take up to a hour for the full loop and is perfect for after lunch or dinner at the Lodge. Please note Island Lake Lodge is only open on select days, including their access road. We highly recommend checking their operations calendar if you are planning on doing the Fir Trail.
A spectacular rocky mountain wilderness park north of Fernie with sub-alpine landscapes, remnant glaciers, rugged peaks, waterfalls and glacier lakes. Half and full day hiking, and overnight wilderness camping. Elk Lakes Provincial Park is a two hour drive north of Fernie to the trailhead.
What do you think of our list? Visit our Fernie hiking section for more details. Have we missed any of your favourite hikes? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram
Trails in and around Fernie are as prevalent and deeply rooted as the area's history. Most of them are maintained by volunteers through multiple trail organizations.
Be sure to purchase trail passes and/or donate to the various trail organizations to show your love and appreciation for all the hard work they do so that visitors and local alike can continue enjoying Fernie's outdoors.
Coal Creek Heritage Society (CCHS)
We always love to see what outdoor adventures you all get up to in Fernie. Tag #ferniestoke to feature in our visitor galleries.