The town of Fernie sits in the East Kootenay Valley surrounded by Mountains, with the Elk River running through it. Many of the old coal mining homes still exist, preserving the quaintness of this little town. The main street (2nd Avenue) offers many gift shops, outdoor specialist stores and unique coffee shops and bars. The town of Fernie and the surrounding area offer a wide variety of terrain to enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and white water rafting. If you name it, you can do it here!

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The town of Fernie is located only 5 km or 3 miles north from the base of the Fernie Alpine Resort along Highway #3.

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From its mining boomtown status at the turn of the century, to its reputation as the "Whiskey Gap" during the 1920's "Prohibition" period, today's Fernie has inherited a unique and colourful history. Much of that history is reflected in the beautiful Victorian style buildings and homes that still exist in the downtown neighbourhood. The devastating loss from the great fire of 1908 encouraged business owners of the day to re-build in stone and brick. Today, those buildings stand with the same grandeur that graced the landscape of Fernie nearly 100 years ago. A gentle stroll through downtown or a visit to one of several interesting Historical Society exhibits provides ample opportunity to imagine the events that unfolded here.

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As a ski resort in the winter, it is the fifth largest ski area in Canada, topped only by Whistler, Lake Louise, Sunshine and Kicking Horse. There are 2,500 acres, 2,800 vertical feet, five bowls and nine lifts. The skiing is known for its 'powder phenomenon!' The ability to ski and board fresh tracks all day long. This is due to the fact that there is an average annual snowfall of 29 feet! By summer the hill keeps two lifts running to support the numbers of hikers and mountain bikers who enjoy a ride to the top.

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