Fernie is a town in southeastern British Columbia, located in the East Kootenay region near the Alberta border. With a population of approximately 6,320, it serves as a regional hub for outdoor recreation and resource industries. The town sits in the Elk River valley, surrounded by peaks of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, which define its landscape and economy.
The area has deep roots in coal mining, with operations dating back to the late 19th century. Today, Fernie is known for outdoor tourism, particularly skiing and snowboarding at Fernie Alpine Resort, located just south of town. The resort attracts visitors from across western Canada during winter months. Beyond winter sports, the town offers year-round activities including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Fernie’s downtown retains heritage architecture from its mining era, reflecting its cultural identity. The surrounding wilderness, including access to provincial parks and Crown land, supports a lifestyle centred on backcountry recreation and natural landscapes.