We can nearly hear our feet rejoice as we slide out of our stiff ski boots and straight back into hiking footwear ready to chase the fresh spring air and sunshine.
While it usually a good few months for the winter snowpack to melt in the high alpine and fully unveil Fernie's goliath multiuse trail network for all, there are a few low-valley hiking routes that are accessible without snowshoes as early as mid-April.
Here are our 5 top pick hiking trails you can take on during your spring mountain getaway to Fernie.
1. Fairy Creek Falls
Spring time sees a torrential flow of snowmelt charging down the valley towards Fairy Creek Falls. The sound of crashing water slowly builds to a deathening crecendo as you make the final approach to the waterfall. You may want to pack a waterproof outer layer for this one as the mist of water can carry some distance down the creek. This out-and-back trail is great for the whole family with minimal elevation change and can be hiked within an hour and a half to two hours.
2. Swine Flu Bench
Not too far away from the Fairy Creek trail head is an alternative hike great for those looking for more of a physical challenge. The climb up Swine Flu trail is part of the even grander Mt. Proctor loop (definitely a hike for one for the summer to-do list). Don't let the unappetizing name deter you from this fantastic hike with a stellar overlooking to Fernie and the Lizard Range.
The trailhead is located at the Fernie Visitor Information Centre - pop by for trail intel, souvenirs and more.
3. Mt Fernie Mid-way Lookout
Mount Fernie is one of the first big peaks you can conquer in late spring thanks to the trail's south facing aspect. You can get a good idea how accessible the summit is from town by looking at the amount of snow in the right side chutes running down from the ridge top. If there's too much snow you probably don't want to be traversing across the chutes. However, the midway bench is still worth the trip to get the early season hiking legs moving again.
4. Montane Trail System
There are multiple routes from the Montane Trailhead to the viewpoint at the Hut. For casual hikers looking for an "Insta-worthy" photo spot, the Easy Beaver Adaptive Trail is our recommendation. It has been laid out to make it accessible for all trail users whilst being immersed in scenic valley views along the way.
We recommend downloading the free Fernie Summer Trail Map to explore the many options of the Montane trail network.
5. Hyperventilation Bench / Castle Rocks
This trail has two breathtaking viewpoints which you can conquer depending on how your cardio-levels are feeling. Hint: the trail is called Hyperventilation for a very good reason. The first bench viewpoint overlooks Fernie Alpine Resort and the Lizard Range towards Island Lake Lodge. Keep grinding on up to Castle Rocks for even more vistas overlooking Fernie, and towards Hosmer. Both options are equally worth a day's labour.
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.