Though I’ve driven through Fernie, British Columbia, at least 100 times, I’d never before stopped as a tourist.  

It’s fantastic.

A.I.

A year round outdoor recreation mecca.

Hiking. Mountain biking. Rafting. River tubing.

Not to mention world-class fly fishing on the Elk River for cutthroat and bull trout.

Fernie is most famous for Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding.

There are over 300 kilometers of multi-use recreational trails accessible directly out of town.

The owner of Edge of the World snowboard shop pointed out that he can hike or bike in any direction from town — and be on a fantastic trail in minutes. (He also had to deploy bear spray to dissuade a Black Bear on the day of my arrival. There is plenty of wildlife around Fernie.)

There are 4 dedicated bike and outdoor shops in a town of less than 6500 locals!

tourismfernie.com

I only ended up exploring Fernie because I broke down my Bikepacking trip nearby.

I’ll be back for sure.