Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling (Don Weixl photo)
The mountains surrounding Fernie Alpine Resort are rugged and steep, which makes for extreme snowmobiling terrain.
In fact, with the exception of a few family-friendly areas in the Elk Valley, snowmobiling in the area is primarily suited to advanced sledders.
The Fernie Snowmobile Association, which maintains cabins at Ram Creek and Minnesota Flats, also publishes a trail map – available from hotels, gas stations, and snowmobile dealers.
Trails
The Morrissey area is 16km/10mi south of Fernie. From the highway, turn east onto Morrissey Rd and drive a few minutes to the staging area. From here, a 31km/19mi groomed trail takes sledders back to Fernie’s Coal Creek staging area. Other ungroomed trails shoot off in various directions.
Read More
For an easier ride, head up to the Minnesota Flats from the Coal Creek staging area just east of town. This staging area can be used to access many ungroomed routes that push deep into the east mountains.
Another groomed trail climbs up and over Hartley Pass from a staging area just a few minutes north of Fernie. Note that chains may be required for vehicles hauling trailers into this area.
Guides and Rentals
Prestige Tours offers two-hour, three-hour, and full-day snowmobile adventures through Island Lake property. One package even includes a meal at the exclusive Island Lake Lodge. Typically, tour package rates include guiding, rentals, and snacks. Rentals for independent touring are also available from Prestige Tours.
More information on snowmobiling in Fernie is available from the Visitor Centre.
Read Less