10+ Things To Do in Fernie in Fall

Don't tell the other seasons, but Fall might be our favourite time to enjoy everything that Fernie has to offer. The valley is transformed into a canvas of amber, gold and crimson, and there's more to experience than you might think; so let's dive into some of the top things to do!

People walking across a street in a small town with mountains in the background.

1. Stroll the Historic Downtown

Lined with century old heritage buildings, locally-owned boutique shops, restaurants, cafes, and galleries, Fernie's historic downtown is a true gem you need to see. With you coffee, or camera in hand, take your time to explore the 2nd Avenue and beyond.

Serene lake surrounded by trees and mountains on a sunny day.

2. Hike to Lizard Lake

This short (and steep) trail starts in the Mt Fernie Provincial Park, and will take you to a picturesque tarn in the subalpine, with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Click to read the full Lizard Lake trail description. Looking for an easier or more challenging option? Check out Fernie's hiking & walking trails.

Mountain biker riding down forest trail, surrounded by autumn leaves & trees.

3. Hit the Trails on a Mountain Bike

With over 350km of trails for all levels, Fernie is nothing short of a mountain biking mecca, and fall is the perfect time to enjoy the cooler temps, changing colours, and uncrowded trails - whether you're chasing flowy descents, techy climbs, or just a good time in the forest. Check out the Fernie Trail Map or download the Trailforks App.

Two anglers in a river, holding a large fish and fishing rods, smiling; trees and mountains in background.

4. Cast a Line on the Elk River

Fernie has been dubbed Trout Town for good reason. The freestone Elk River is synonymous with world-class dry-fly fishing! Cast a line and try your luck at catching a westslope cutthroat or bull trout. Check out the Elk River Map & Useful Information. For the best day on the river, we recommend hiring a guide from one of Fernie's fly fishing outfitters.

Interior the Fernie Museum, with a person standing; dark wood floors and decor; natural light.

5. Visit the Fernie Museum

Fires, floods, mine disasters and even a curse did not deter people from forging a good life in Fernie. Visit the Fernie Museum to learn about the town's interesting history. The ground floor features a permanent exhibit This Is Our Fernie and offers a fascinating look into Fernie's rich and dramatic history. Admission is by donation.

Woman sitting at a table, holding smartphone with the Iconic Fernie mobile app on the screen.

6. Explore More with Self-Guided Tours

Download the FREE Iconic Fernie mobile app for various themed self-guided tours and attractions for different ages. Create a free account in the app to collect points that you can then redeem for local rewards. The more you explore, the more points you earn - a great 'treasure hunt' for the whole family!

Fernie golf course with a small lake, yellow and green trees, a large evergreen tree, and mountains in the background.

7. Play a Round of Golf

Hit the driving range or play a round at one of the most scenic golf courses in BC. Fernie Golf Club is a Par-70, 18-hole course that is as playable as it is picturesque. Typically open until mid-October.

Group of people sitting on wooden benches in a Finnish sauna.

8. Soak in Fernie's Wellness Scene

Take a moment to slow down and rejuvenate in one of Fernie's day spas, enjoy the convenience of a mobile massage with Emily Ruth that will come to you, or enjoy a unique sauna experience with Kamu Sauna or at Spa901.

Two people sitting on stools at a counter in a brewery.

9. Savour the Taste of Fernie

Sample Fernie's locally brewed craft beers Fernie Brewing Co., taste local award-winning spirits at the Fernie Distillers, or freshly roasted coffee at the Rooftop Coffee Roasters.

But wait, there's much more to sample & savour - explore all Dining in Fernie.

Runners on a path by a river, surrounded by autumn trees and mountains.

10. Attend Fernie's Events

Here in Fernie we love to get social any time of year and the town's events calendar is busy with many great events, programs, live music or races. The below are just a few highlights. Check our Fernie Events Calendar for all programming.

Fernie Lions Demolition Derby
Fernie Mud Bogging
Elk Valley Pride Festival
Steep n'Deep XC Bike Race
Fernie Femmduro Bike Race
Fernie Half Marathon
& weekly live music, meat draw, trivia, and more

Woman viewing ammonite fossil embedded in stone display.

11. Explore the Fernie Paleo Trail

Did you know that long before towering peaks and lush forests shaped Fernie's landscape, this region was covered by a warm inland sea, leaving behind an extraordinary collection of fossils preserved within the surrounding rock? Embark on an exciting journey into the past with the Fernie Paleo Trail.

Fall in Fernie offers more than stunning scenery - it’s a season full of memorable moments and unique experiences. Discover our list of 20 Things to Do in Fernie in Fall to help you make the most of your stay during this magical time of year.