5 Reasons to Choose Fernie as Your Fall Getaway Destination

Located in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, just over three hours from Calgary, Fernie is a must-visit destination year-round, but it holds a unique charm in the fall. 

“Fernie has a slower pace to it,” says Christine Grimble, manager of media/travel trade and projects at Tourism Fernie. “You can leisurely spend your day, soaking in what fall is all about: nature, wellness and comfort combined with the awakening of colours of the fall in the valley and the surrounding mountains and those crystal blue waters of the Elk River.”

If you’re not sold yet, here are a few more reasons to escape the bustle of the city this fall and head to Fernie.

Ideal location 

Fernie is an easy (and quite beautiful!) drive from Calgary, and it offers new views of the Rocky Mountains for first-time visitors. The town sits in a valley fully encircled by mountain vistas and breathtaking sights, with the Elk River flowing through. 

A welcoming small-town feel

During shoulder seasons, Fernie offers fewer crowds and a slower pace, so visitors can feel like they’re living with the locals. Most of the shops and restaurants are locally owned, and the residents welcome visitors with Fernie friendliness.

“Here, people will genuinely smile or say hi as they’re walking along the street. There’s an atmosphere that you feel when you come into the community, and it is warm, engaging, very accepting and welcoming,” says Grimble. 

Affordability 

A mountain getaway may be more affordable than you think in Fernie — especially during the fall — with a flexible range of accommodation options and something for everyone’s holiday budget. Its shoulder-season prices are less expensive than a typical mid-winter ski getaway — think an average of $169 a night in September through to November. There are also excellent fall promotions like major discounted rates on the third night at select spots. 

No shortage of activities

Fernie is known for an expansive trail network spanning almost 400 kilometres, making it the ultimate outdoor playground for hiking and mountain biking. With so many routes to choose from, there’s something for all levels. Hikers can pick from an easy, family-friendly walk or a technical route with impressive elevation gains for optimal mountain range views. Mountain bike options are also accessible, with routes for novice, intermediate or advanced level riders — Fernie is a mountain biking mecca for all. The area also offers a picturesque 18-hole championship golf course, world-class fly fishing on the Elk River or even motorsport adventures. For less strenuous activity, rent an e-bike and tour around Elk River. 

For those interested in arts and culture, Fernie offers both in spades. Learn about the charming historic downtown by walking among century-old heritage buildings, tour the Fernie Museum or visit the numerous galleries. Use the free Iconic Fernie Mobile App to discover self-guided tours, including the Heritage Pub tour and Taste of Fernie tour. 

Fall events

Fernie has a variety of recurring events, including bike and run clubs, tours and outdoor workshops, as well as special fall events. Visitors can celebrate diversity and inclusion at the Elk Valley Pride Festival September 17-21. Browse the Fernie Mountain Market on Sundays until the end of September. Run or cheer at the Fernie Half Marathon on October 5, and partake in the special Thanksgiving At The Barn event on October 11. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of hockey matches featuring Fernie’s own KIJHL team — the Fernie Ghostriders. 

For more information on promotions, stays and things to do in Fernie, visit tourismfernie.com.

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