Even though the temperatures take us closer to that wonderful day when we can break out the skis and snowboards, it is still technically summer. That means that you can still get some great mountain biking done on all the trails here. Fernie is the perfect place for mountain biking, with plenty of tough singletrack and an abundance of interesting terrain. Fernie also plays host to a number of cool races like the Full Throttle Mountain Bike Festival, and next week's Tears & Gears Mountain Duathlon. Of course, the most famous race here is the TransRockies. The grueling trek over the Canadian Rockies draws riders from all over the world. Yet, none of these races would be going on if it weren't for the excellent set of trails that Fernie has. Largely thanks to the Fernie Trails & Ski Touring Club, these are maintained and enhanced every year.
Two wheeled activities aren't the only thing to do here in Fernie. During the summer, all those trails also make for excellent hiking. Along with fishing, golf, whitewater rafting and many other activities, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. However, if you want the best experience of the outdoors here in Fernie, then you have to go backcountry. The same Fernie mountains that put the “mountain” in mountain biking make for excellent skiing and snowboarding. The thing that draws people from all over the world is the snow. That perfectly dry, fluffy substance known as British Columbia champagne powder to be exact.
If you want the best powder and backcountry,
Island Lake Catskiing is where you want to go. Their 7,000 acres of endless powder bowls, pillow lines and finely-gladded tree skiing make for some of the best days you'll ever have on the slopes. Top it off with a stay in their luxurious lodge, complete with spa and fine dining, and you'll never want to leave. Their lodge is also open during the summer. So whenever you visit Fernie, make sure to plan a stop at Island Lake. You won’t regret it.
