Fernie tends to catch people by surprise. Many arrive planning for two nights, then quickly wish they’d booked a week once they discover the endless things to do in Fernie.
Tucked into the beautiful Elk Valley and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, Fernie offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and local charm. You can spend the morning skiing, hiking, or biking, visit a museum downtown in the afternoon, and end the day relaxing at a local café or restaurant.
1) James White Park (∼5 Kilometres)
James White Park is Fernie’s largest park and a local favourite. It’s a great spot to relax, stretch your legs, or let kids and pets run around after a long drive.
The park features open fields, riverside walking paths, disc golf, tennis courts, and easy access to the Elk River. We often recommend this Fernie tourist attraction to guests who arrive early and want to enjoy some fresh air before checking in.
2) Ridgemont Trail (∼5 Kilometres)
If you’re looking to start your adventure with something easy, the Ridgemont Trail Network offers a mix of shorter loops and gentle terrain. You’ll hike through lightly wooded areas and open ridgelines with views of the Elk Valley and Lizard Range.
Bring a picnic and take your time. This is one of the best attractions around Fernie for families, beginners, or anyone looking for quiet nature walks without venturing far from town.
3) Montane Trail System & Historic Barn (∼3 Kilometres)
The Montane Trail System has trails passing through meadows and forested stretches, offering views of the valley and Fernie’s charming town below.
Routes like Montane Blue are easy to access and suitable for all ages, with walking times ranging from 30 minutes to about two hours. Be sure to stop by the historic Montane Barn for some breathtaking photo ops, especially at sunrise or sunset.
One of the best things about this trail network is how quiet it tends to be. Many visitors miss it altogether since they choose to stay near the town centre or head straight to the Alpine Resort.
4) Island Lake Lodge Trails (∼11 Kilometres) and Mt Fernie Provincial Park (∼4 Kilometres)
Though Island Lake Lodge is known for its luxury stays, the hiking trails are open to the public and provide some of the most scenic walking routes in the area.
The Lake Trail and Fir Trail are well-marked, moderately easy, and sheltered by old-growth forest. You can follow shaded paths, pause at quiet lookouts, and enjoy a ‘wilderness feel’ without committing to a long or technical hike.
Plan a relaxed half-day outing and pack a picnic. The lakeside clearings are perfect for lunch with a view.
Alternatively, Mt. Fernie Provincial Park is closer to our hotel, with forested trails, access to Lizard Creek, and excellent campground facilities. Both locations rank high on any list of top Fernie BC tourist attractions.
5) Fernie Dirt Jump & Skills Park (∼3 Kilometres)
Located behind the Aquatic Centre, the Fernie Dirt Jump & Skills Park is one of the more active and energetic Fernie attractions close to Fernie Fox Hotel. The park features progressive jumps and pump tracks where riders can build confidence, test their skills, or simply enjoy some time on two wheels.
The park is free and open to everyone. You’re welcome to participate or just watch from the sidelines: it’s a lively space either way. Once you’re done, consider stopping by the adjacent skatepark or cooling off with a swim at the nearby pool.
6) Fernie Brewing Co. Tasting Room (∼5 Kilometres)
Fernie Brewing Co.’s Tasting Room is a great place to wind down after a day in the mountains. The comfortable tasting room is set against a backdrop of stunning mountains and offers seasonal craft beer flights and small-batch brews you won’t find anywhere else.
It’s a favourite among couples and small groups looking to cap off the day with a laid-back drink in good company.
7) Beanpod Chocolate & Coffee (∼2 Kilometres)
Beanpod in downtown Fernie is known for its handcrafted, bean-to-bar chocolates made fresh on-site. If you visit at the right time, you can watch the chocolate-making process through the viewing window.
While the signature chocolate bark is an all-time local favourite, you can also indulge in their rotating selection of seasonal treats. Pair a piece (or two) with a cup of house-roasted coffee for a simple, satisfying mid-day break.
8) Fernie Memorial Arena (∼2 Kilometres)
The Fernie Memorial Arena is a true community landmark and a local gem many visitors tend to overlook.
In winter, the arena hosts hockey games and public skating sessions packed with hometown energy. During the warmer months, the space transforms into a roller-skating rink and event venue. If you’re looking to connect with Fernie’s community spirit, this is the place to be.
9) Vogue Theatre (∼2 Kilometres)
Step inside the Vogue Theatre, and you’ll feel like you’ve travelled back a few decades in the best way. The independent cinema has old-school seats, a classic marquee, and a cosy atmosphere that feels a world away from big city multiplexes.
The schedule leans toward indie features, Fernie-centred documentaries, and seasonal classics that rarely appear at larger chains. It’s an ideal fallback for a rainy day, or when you’re content to rest after your time on the trails.
10) Coal Creek Heritage Trail & Snowmobile Access (∼6 Kilometres)
Coal Creek Heritage Trail sits on the edge of town, close to Fernie’s historic Coal Creek area. Once a bustling mining zone, the site now serves as a gateway to scenic trails used for snowmobiling in winter and light hiking in the warmer months.
You’ll pass through forested stretches, with occasional remnants of Fernie’s industrial past still visible along the route. This attraction near Fernie offers a unique way to experience the town’s industrial past while enjoying the surrounding wilderness.
Make Fernie Fox Hotel Your Basecamp
All of these Fernie attractions are within easy reach of Fernie Fox Hotel. We’ve picked our location carefully, so every location listed here is only a short walk, bike ride, or quick drive away. That’s one of the many reasons travellers use us as their go-to base for exploring attractions around Fernie.
We provide clean, comfortable rooms, complete with double queen beds, complimentary Wi-Fi, and options for adjoining rooms. Your stay includes access to:
- A large guest kitchen and dining area
- An outdoor BBQ and patio
- An outdoor hot tub
- Spacious family suites
- Welcoming lobby space
- Guest laundry facilities
- Free stays for kids under 16
We also offer features specifically designed for outdoor-focused stays:
- Secure gear storage for bikes, skis, or boards
- EV charging on-site
- E-bike on rentals to explore nearby trails and town
The hotel is fully pet-friendly and well-suited for larger groups, reunions, or wedding guests. We’re proud of our commitment to sustainability and our strong ties to the local community. From green upgrades in our buildings to ongoing partnerships with local nonprofits, we do our part to keep Fernie thriving.
With everything close by and comfort built into every stay, Fernie Fox Hotel is the practical, relaxed choice for your next getaway in this charming mountain town.
Book your stay today or call us on 1 (877) 447-6788 to speak with our team. We’re here to help make your Fernie visit unforgettable.
