Ski season’s wrapped... Are you a little heartbroken? Wondering what to do next now that the days on the slopes are behind us? Don’t worry, we’ve been there too and we've got you.
Spring in Fernie is a bit of a slow burn. The forests are waking up, the sun’s putting in overtime, and while the alpine isn’t quite ready to let go of winter (fair enough), the valley is officially shifting gears.
Did you store your winter gear properly? Good, because it's officially spring now. Here’s what starts opening up around Fernie once the hill closes:
Golf
Dust off the clubs. The driving range opened on April 10! The full 18-hole golf course is typically ready for play by mid-May (snowpack depending, of course).
Low Valley Hiking & Mountain Biking
Early season adventures start down low. As the snow melts, valley trails begin to dry out, making way for hiking, biking, and those first proper dirt days of the year. Stop by the Fernie Visitor Centre to see what’s good to go or download the Trailforks App for latest trail reports.
Whitewater Rafting
Splash season kicks off sooner than you might think. Tours on the Elk River can start as early as late April, depending on conditions. Reach out to Canyon Raft Co. or Tunnel49 to get the latest and lock in your spring adventure.
Patio Season
Springtime is when the après shifts from ski boots to sunglasses. Just like mushrooms after a spring rain, Fernie’s patios start popping up at the first hint of warm weather. Fernie Distillers, Fernie Brewing Co., The Bridge Bistro and The Chopstick Truck usually dust off their patio chairs in April, weather permitting.
Patios on 2nd Ave in historic downtown officially kick off on May 1st.
Camping & RV
Planning a spring roadtrip? Fernie has camping options! Fernie RV Resort is open year-round. Fernie's newest camp spot - the Coal Creek Campground & RV is now taking bookings for stays starting May 1st, 2026. The popular Mount Fernie Provincial Park Campground opens June 1 (reservations are already live).
Fernie Alpine Resort Summer Operations
As soon as the snow melts off the slopes, Fernie Alpine Resort transforms into a summer playground for hiker, mountain bikers and anyone who wants to experience a summer resort vacation. Summer operations typically start at the of June. Check Fernie Alpine Resort's website for updates and make sure to plan a visit!
Island Lake Lodge Summer Operations
A bucket-list summer location for alpine hiking, nature walks, and unique stays in a backcountry lodge with excellent dining and spa. Summer at Island Lake Lodge is hard to put in words, you need to visit to experience how magical this place is! Island Lake Lodge opens to public mid-June. Some blackout days apply, please check their online operations calendar when planning you visit.