Canada's Stunning City Surrounded By The Rocky Mountains Is A Scenic Outdoor Adventure Hub

Located on Canada's westernmost part between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, British Columbia is one of the most stunning places in the world. Whether it's the stunning Garibaldi Provincial Park, the turquoise waters of Lake O'Hara, the beautiful coastal town of Tofino, or the Great Bear Rainforest, or a bucket list worthy destination for the chance to see a rare bear, Canada's fourth-largest province is awash with breathtaking scenery.

It was christened British by Queen Victoria in 1858 when still a British protectorate to differentiate it from the Columbia District of the US. The name Columbia, on the other hand, comes from the Columbia River that flows from the Rocky Mountains in Canada to Oregon, in the US, via the Pacific Ocean. That said, British Columbia (BC) is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, thanks to its cities packed with various outdoor activities to enjoy. A case in point is Fernie.

Surrounded by mountains, Fernie is located in the southeast part of British Columbia, and is a popular destination not just for Albertans and British Columbians but also tourists from around the world due to its strategic location. It's about 60 miles east of Cranbrook, 117 miles north of Kalispell, and about 180 miles southwest of Calgary. The closest Airport is Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC), which is about 64 miles west of Fernie. The town's fluffy white powder attracts skiing buffs during winter, while the steep but stunning landscape makes it a hotspot for bikers and trailblazers during summer. The city is named after William Fernie, one of the people who played a significant role in bringing coal mining to the Elk Valley area.

Start your adventure with a leisurely stroll around the downtown area. The place has many old but interesting structures that will take you back to the 1900s. The patch has featured in several shows and movies, such as "Cold Pursuit" (2018) and "Hot Tub Time Machine" (2010). You will also come across a castle-like Court House built in 1911 with granite. Other notable buildings in the area include the Holy Family Catholic Church, built in 1912, and city hall, constructed in 1905.

If you are up for biking, head to the Lazy Lizard trail. The 4.3-mile trail is accessible via the Fernie Provincial Park and takes you to the Island Lake Lodge. It has an elevation of about 548 meters, and passes through beautiful cedar trees, creeks, and bridges. For more trails and stunning views, Mount Fernie Park, located in the Kootenay Range, won't disappoint. A visit to the park will reward you with the three-mile round-trip Old Growth Trail, breathtaking views of cascading water from Lizard Creek, and angling opportunities along Elk River.

Speaking of Elk River, its gently flowing water makes it ideal for a rejuvenating swim in the afternoon or activities like rafting and kayaking. Another popular destination in the city is Fairy Creek Falls. It's about three miles from the Fernie Visitor Information Centre, and the hike is rated as easy, meaning it's ideal for the entire family. No trip to Fernie can be complete without a stop at Fernie Alpine Resort, one of the most gorgeous mountain resorts in Canada with unforgettable views, as well as home to the best ski hills in the country. The powder paradise features over 2500 acres of powder terrain, 10 chairlifts, a 3550 meter vertical rise, and about 145 trails.

If you get hungry and need to refuel, Fernie has many amazing destinations designed for different tastes and preferences. For bagels, stop by Big Bang Bagels at 502 2nd Avenue, Fernie. Menu items include various bagel creations, including cream cheese bagels, cookies, Big Banger, and Mr. Fernie. If you prefer something heavier, pause by Island Lake Lodge. The facility has two dining options: the Tamarack Dining Room and the Bear Bistro.

The latter features a scenic patio ideal for having your lunch or late breakfast as you soak in stunning mountain views. On the menu you will find crispy chicken tenders, crispy tofu mushroom sandwichs, and wagyu smash burgers. The former is perfect for a formal dinner or banquet. The menu features food prepared with local ingredients such as fresh bread and butter, wagyu beef carpaccio, and spruce tip gravlax.

The lodge also has a spa, making Fernie one of the world's best vacation spots that are all-inclusive. The spa offers various wellness treatments, including customized deep tissue massage, body treatments, and facials. It's the ideal complement after a long day on the slopes, mountain biking, skiing, or hiking. Beer buffs, Fernie Brewing Company has got you covered. Situated a few minutes from Fernie along Highway 3, the local brewery is open for tastings, and some of the beers offered include Project 9 Pils, Ridgewalk Red Ale, and Straight Line White. The tasting room is open Sunday-Wednesday from 11AM to 8PM and Thursday-Saturday from 10AM to 9PM.