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Must-Do List: Top 10 Fernie Hikes

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

 Easy     Moderate    Hard


Mount Proctor 

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  

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.

Heiko's Trail 

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.

Mount Fernie Provincial Park 

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 keey an ear out for mountain bikers and share the trails. 

Mount Fernie Ridge

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.

Old Growth Trail

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 with lunch or a beverage on the patio at the Lodge, dining reservations are recommended.

Three Sisters (Mt Trinity) Trail

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.

Boom Trail & Gorbie Flats at Fernie Alpine Resort

The Resort is open June 27 - September 6, 2020 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!

Fir Trail 

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. Reservations recommended for dining.

Elk Lakes Provincial Park 

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


Supporting Fernie's Trail System

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.

Fernie Trails Alliance (FTA)

Coal Creek Heritage Society (CCHS)

Fernie Mountain Bike Club (FMBC)

We always love to see what outdoor adventures you all get up to in Fernie. Tag #ferniestoke to feature in our visitor galleries.

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