Well how ‘bout this weather we’re having?? It’s phenomenal! It’s glorious! It’s exactly what we like to see here in Fernie, BC! Blue skies, sunshine and warm temps…just what the doctor ordered! I’ve even taken the roof off of my Jeep already….twice! Fifty shades of green are donning the branches of all the trees, the hummingbirds are back and the golf course is open – and that’s only the beginning. The bike trails are in stellar condition, the hiking trails are ready for you to climb to new heights and the local lakes in the Elk Valley are currently a fisherman’s dream! The ospreys are soaring above the Elk River delighted they have first pick as the fishing season for the 2–legged fisherman doesn’t open until mid-June.

Fernie really is an all-around amazing little gem hidden away in the southern BC East Kootenays, surrounded by the magnificent Rocky Mountains….specifically Mt Fernie, Mt Proctor, Mt Hosmer and of course the Three Sisters. I’ve hiked all of these peaks except the Three Sisters and I feel like I need to do that with my two sisters Sue and Sandra…wouldn’t that be fitting? I have hiked along the back side of these three stone ladies on Mountain Lakes Trail, originally known as Heiko’s Trail which, if you haven’t hiked it, is a must and should be on your bucket list! Just remember to hike in numbers, make lots of noise and always carry bear spray….safety first, right?

Why not start to plan your summer getaway right now! Seriously! Call me! I can put together an accommodation package that will have you wanting to come back again…and again…and again! Whether it’s a romantic weekend away, a family reunion or a corporate retreat, I specialize in putting a smile on your face and a song in your heart…okay well at least I can find you the perfect place to stay. Why wouldn’t you want to be nestled in the forest at the base of Fernie Alpine Resort….only a hop, skip and a jump away from the Aerial Park and Zip Line not to mention the lift assisted mountain biking and sightseeing chairlift rides which all open on June 27.

We have condos, townhomes, rustic log cabins and executive homes…surely one of these strikes your fancy? We also have 2 executive homes located in Fernie town itself should you want to be closer to all the shopping, the restaurants and the nightlife.

I have some great summer specials and long stay specials so don’t delay, call me now!
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Photos by: Heather Boyd

Sadly this could be my last winter post….the countdown has begun…only 26 days left in the ski season! I know what you’re thinking….I am amazed as well! Where did the season go? Well I figure time flies when you’re having fun and this winter has been no exception! It’s the middle of March, our snow base is a healthy 341cms, our year to date snowfall is sitting at a whopping 837cms (27.5 feet for all you old-schoolers!) and there is more snow in the forecast. Still so many things to do before the final bullwheel turns….are you going to take some of these in?

This weekend, March 21 and 22, marks the annual Kokanee RETRO Weekend so pull out those figure flattering stretch pants, fluorescent jackets or one-piece suits…paint your face with neon zinc oxide…maybe you even have a tube of SNIK sitting in the bottom of your fanny pack…you remember…that Italian sunscreen that made you “Honey bronced (sic) and very, very desirable”. Oh good grief…I am dating myself! Well, the secret is out…I’ve been skiing for over 40 years and I have seen a huge change in the industry but my fondest memories are still the early 80s…without a doubt! 200cm skinny skis, safety straps, headbands and KWays…now THAT was fashion! Like totally gnarly dude! Tubular!  Nothin’ bogus about it! Did we really talk like that? Like to the max! Wow! Gag me with a spoon! So, here’s a choice deal for you for this weekend only!

Taking place in the RCR Rail Park on March 22 is the Kinky Rail Jam with both skiers and snowboarders competing in a “jam format” – a great event for spectators of all ages. Let’s see what these athletes can throw down!

How about this!? There are 2 more Fridays in March for night skiing from 4pm – 9pm…isn’t it time you joined the kids for an evening of fun under the lights on the Mighty Moose?

Check out our events page for all the upcoming fun stuff including the Raging Elk Cardboard Derby, Monster Energy Enemy Lines and of course all the fabulous activities surrounding Fernival, our final winter weekend  featuring FREE live performances in the plaza by Daniel Wesley and headliners The Dudes on Saturday April 12 and the exciting and hilariousCoca-Cola Slope Soaker on Sunday April 13. Then it’s, “So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, goodbye”… to winter!

So what are you waiting for? Call now and book yourself into a cozy cabin, comfortable condo or luxurious lodge! Whether you’re looking for in-suite laundry, a private hot tub and bbq or perhaps you choose to do some laps in one of our heated outdoor pools in preparation for your summer “beach body”…call now! Spring Break savings and Sunday arrival specialsavailable NOW!! Please call me….I’d love to chat! Let me help you to end the season in style – it’s what I do!

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Photo: Heather Boyd

Well Happy New Year to everyone! I realize that I should have written my first-of-the-year post much sooner, but I’ve been suffering from a bit of a writer’s block! I know, I know…me? Speechless? Nothing to say? Sadly it’s true. I think there was a time, back in the day, my family rejoiced when I was speechless; in fact my teachers in school would high five each other in the hallway! Well my friends, you don’t get off that easy, for I have found my ‘writer’s flood’. You are going to enjoy the strange alchemic result of my rekindled creative genius!

Let’s talk about your New Year’s resolutions…what’s that now? You’ve already broken them all? You haven’t started them yet? You didn’t make any this year? Well, that is why I’m here…help is on the way! Best New Year’s resolution ever? VISIT FERNIE! Why should you? Well I’m going to tell you so sit back and enjoy the read!

In a winter wonderland such as Fernie, there is never a dull moment. Whether you downhill ski or snowboard, Nordic ski, snowshoe…perhaps your passion is back country touring or sledding…you’ve come to the right place! With magnificent scenery and legendary snow this really is a little piece of heaven waiting just for you!

Now I’ve talked a lot about the snow here in Fernie….whether it’s downhill skiing or snowboarding at Fernie Alpine Resort, catskiing  or boarding at Island Lake Lodge or Fernie Wilderness Adventures…it’s all epic! So let’s look a little more into cross country skiing, showshoeing and back country touring.

Fernie’s cross country trail system has expanded over the last few years into over 50kms of picturesque, well maintained groomed trails thanks to Fernie Alpine Resort, Island Lake and the Fernie Nordic Society. They range from easy to more difficult so whether it’s a fun family outing or a full-on fitness workout you’re looking for, Fernie offers it all! There are about 12 km of groomed tracks available on the Fernie Golf Course. There is little change of elevation on these trails so it is optimal for beginner skiers. The start of the trails is at the Clubhouse of the golf course where you will find ample free parking. The trails are jointly groomed by the Golf Course and by the Nordic Society volunteers on a regular basis. These trails or not dog-friendly. Fernie Alpine Resort grooms two loops….the larger is about 9 kms long but has a bypass at the halfway point. It’s an easy trail but the section from the parking lot to reach the trail head is steep and a little challenging so beginners may want to carry their skis for that part of the trail. These trails are dog-friendly but they must be on a leash. Approximately 25kms of winter wilderness trails await you should you decide to ski to Island Lake Lodge. Once at the lodge there are trails to access as well.  Please be aware that you may encounter a Snow Cat ferrying guests, a snowmobile or even a moose. Head west from Fernie on Hwy 3 and turn right at the Island Lake sign. Follow this road for 7kms until you reach the Island Lake parking lot. Once again these trails are dog-friendly but they should be kept on a leash. Wind along the Fernie Dyke aside the mighty Elk River for about 6 kms starting from behind Canadian Tire at Maiden Lake. This trail is not groomed regularly and it is used by hikers, snowshoers and cross country skiers. Dogs are welcome!

Didn’t have a chance to check out the bike trails this past summer? Well here’s your opportunity! The single track trails, covered in soft blankets of white provide a wonderful winter snowshoe experience! Head to Island Lake for a scenic trek around the lake, book a tour at Fernie Alpine Resort or pack a lunch and head out on your own to Mt Fernie, Mt Hosmer or Mt Proctor.

Back country touring in Fernie is phenomenal with unlimited terrain and fresh powder. Completing an avalanche awareness course is highly recommended and of course you should also have the proper gear (peeps, shovel and probe) with knowledge of how to use it prior to heading out to ensure a safe and fun experience. Check in with Fernie’s local experts at any of the ski shops. They can give you up-to-date advice on where to go and help you choose any gear you may be missing.

So…how ‘bout sledding? Another big draw to Fernie and the Elk Valley is snowmobiling! The whole area has some incredible terrain ranging from easy, family friendly groomed trails to expert back country adrenalin! Head to the Coal Creek staging area to get started on your larger-than-life adventure! Rentals and guided tours are available whether you want to go for a couple of hours or a full day. Check out Weir Boondocking Backcountry Snowmobile Clinics, Fernie Snowmobile Association, GearHub or Ghostrider Motorsports for more information on tours and rentals.

Whew! I’m done! How exhausting! Just look at all the amazing activities there are to try out in Fernie and I’ve only scratched the surface. I haven’t even talked about the plethora of restaurants, bars, pubs and all their nightly events; nor have I mentioned the local artisan world of which there is plenty.

Come for a visit to Fernie…make it your renewed New Year’s resolution….you’ll never regret it! We have winter Deals & Packages galore to suit everyone’s needs! Whether you want an executive vacation home, a private chalet, a cozy log cabin or a condo suite, we can help make your resolution come true! So don’t delay – call now! Oh wait…I’m about to take a ski break cuz it is dumping snow…leave a message and I’ll call you when I finish blasting down my two favourite runs – Easter Bowl and Snake Ridge. Woohoo…….

Let us take care of your vacation – it’s what we do!
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Photo Credit: Juliana Dare

So I’m sitting here in my office, staring out at the top of the mountains dusted with fresh snow, wondering where on earth the summer went! Is it really September 30^th? The trees are all starting to take on their fall colours and there is a definite chill in the air….the anticipation of winter is slowly starting to make its way into our heads…only a few months before we don our ski gear and head out for first run of the season! But wait! As much as I love skiing and snow, I’m not quite ready to pack away my bike, my hiking boots or my golf clubs! No sir….I am still going to do as much as I can on our trails and our beautiful golf course which sadly closes Thanksgiving weekend. This year I golfed more than I ever have before…my future with the LPGA still not looking good, but the more I play the more I love the sport.

Speaking of Thanksgiving, it is one of my favourite holiday weekends….it’s all about family and turkey dinner. A tradition in our house is to go around the dinner table and each say what we are grateful for. One year, when my son was young, it was his turn…he looked around the table at all of us with big eyes and as I thought, “Oh no….he can’t come up with anything!” be blurted out, “I’m just thankful I’m not the turkey!” Oh my…how we laughed! Although I find it hard to leave my beautiful Fernie, I am heading to Vernon with my sister and brother-in-law to spend the long weekend with my parents which will be lots of fun and full of activities. My parents aren’t your normal late 70 year olds and in fact my sister and I find it a challenge at times to keep up to them! They play in 2 bands, ride their horses in the Monashee Mountains throughout the summer, wrangle their cattle on their property; downhill ski, cross country ski, snowshoe and snowmobile in the winter. They live in the middle of 80 acres, have solar power, their own water system, their own saw mill and they fell trees and buck them up for firewood. We refer to them as The Bush Parents and I’m sure you can see why!

If you’re thinking how great it would be to get the whole family together for Thanksgiving….away from the city…a little mini vacation, come to Fernie! We have a great special that weekend…one you really shouldn’t miss out on! How does a 30% discount sound to you? Imagine the whole gang nestled into one of our resort homes, a cozy log cabin or a condo suite with your own private hot tub, fireplace and fully equipped kitchen.  Call today and let me help you put together your best Thanksgiving weekend ever!

Let us take care of your vacation – it’s what we do!
1.800.667.9911

Photo: Elk River
Photo Credit: Heather Boyd