Everyone is familiar with British Columbia, as it is the premier destination for heliskiing, snow cat skiing, and regular resort skiing. Before the discovery of white gold, Fernie and the surrounding area were classic examples of mountain mining and logging towns. The region was seasonally populated by Native Americans, until 1873 when Michael Phillips discovered Crowsnest Pass and found outcroppings of coal. It took quite a while to build the mines and railway needed to extract the coal, but by 1897 things were up and running. As Fernie grew, commercial logging also became big business. It wasn't until 1963 that the area began to be developed for the skiing paradise it now is. Catskiing BC Canada
Nowadays, Fernie is a regular tourist attraction in both the summer and winter months. Mountain biking, hiking, fishing, golfing, and white water rafting, are among many other activities that bring visitors in the summer. In the winter, catskiing is the game. Island Lake Lodge is one of the original backcountry snow cat operators here in Fernie, and was the first to own the land it operated, instead of leasing it as is common these days. Powder Cowboy is newer to the game, but offers an equally exciting experience. Both lodges are open in the summer, with Powder Cowboy's Dude Ranch providing a unique vacation.
For Cat Skiing BC Canada, both companies provide access to a variety of terrain types. Both operations make use of the magnificent Lizard Range, and no matter whether you want steep chutes or sweet tree lines, or both, they have you covered. Island Lake even boasts some backcountry runs that you can take right back to the lodge! One of Powder Cowboy's many highlights is the seemingly endless ridge runs with lines falling off in all directions. No matter when you come, or what you do, be sure to check out all the interesting history that abounds in Fernie. From rumrunners to railway wars to the flocks of champagne powder addicts that now come every year, Fernie has played host to a lot of action over the years.
