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A pretty little lake with perfect views of the Mount Trinity (Three Sisters Mountain) and Mount Proctor.
This lake is a popular rest stop if you've been driving from afar, or for those needing a close-by escape from downtown for the afternoon. Maiden Lake hosts the annual Cardboard Boat Race which takes place on Canada Day, an event not to be missed.
A few eat-in and takeaway dining options in close walking distance from here including McDonald's, Starbucks, Tim Hortons, and Boston Pizza. Further food options are available on Historic Downtown Fernie, just 22min walk away.
The turn-off for Maiden Lake is shortly after the crossing the North Fernie Bridge coming into Fernie. Turn left at the traffic lights towards McDonald's and Tim Hortons, and head straight. The lake is located off 19th Street in Fernie, behind Canadian Tire and Independent Foods Grocery Store, with space for limited parking on 19th Street. It is close walking distance to Fernie RV Resort, Fernie Golf Club and the Best Western Plus Lodge.
Paddle
Maiden Lake is open to the public and can be found right in town. It is a popular spot for some easy paddling, as well as picnicking on the grass while enjoying views of the Canadian Rockies. Swimming is not recommended. Kids can catch minnows, and play at the little rocky beach area. Inflatable kayaks and Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUPs) are available for hire at Gearhub Sports.
Walk or bike Fernie's Recreational Trail
Maiden Lake is a stop on Fernie's Recreational Trail loop. The flat stroller friendly trail follows alongside the Elk River downstream connecting to Annex Park, and Dogwood Park
Nature Viewing
The McDougall Wetlands situated behind Maiden Lake can be accessed on foot by a short dirt trail on the northeastern side of the lake. It is a popular spot for wildlife viewing. Bring some binoculars and you may catch some of the Western Painted Turtles and Great Blue Herons that reside there.
Ice Skating
Maiden Lake tends to fully freeze over in early-December, allowing a short window of opportunity to outdoor skate surrounded by mountains. This lake is unsupervised, and skaters should always be diligent and test the ice thickness before venturing out. Ice Skates can be rented from Gearhub Sports.
Snowshoe, XC Ski, Fatbike alongside the Elk River
Whether you slide, roll, or float on top of the snow-packed trail network in winter, there are plenty of options for the outdoor enthusiasts even if you don't downhill ski. Mountain High Adventures at based closeby at Fernie RV Resort is the perfect starting point to explore the winter trails. A groomed trail links Maiden Lake to Mountain High Adventures where you can warm up with a hot beverage and snack before taking the adventure further alongside the Elk River on the Great River Extension Trail to the river viewpoint.
