While much of the excitement of a ski trip to Fernie revolves around the “Fernie Factor” and all the great powder snow it brings, for those skiers with family in tow, the “Family Factor” is another important element to keep in mind.
The “Family Factor” is the collection of the great amenities, activities and attractions that you can find in Fernie BC that help make a family holiday to the mountains so special.
Here are four of our favorite “Family Factor” tips for a ski trip to Fernie with family in tow!
Stay Low
For advanced skiers, the Elk and Deer Chairs are just a means to access the upper mountain. For beginners and kids, those two lifts open up a whole new world of opportunity once they have progressed past the Might Moose and Mini Moose beginner lifts. The lower mountain is full of wide gentle runs, exciting tree trails and even a skier cross course if you’re feeling adventurous! Check out this recent video by the Treadway family to get a better idea of why “staying low” on the mountain can be so much fun!
A Family that can Ski Fernie Together…
Face it, kids are never content to just stay on the lower slopes and will beg you to ski the “top of the mountain.” Fortunately, there are a number of easier blue runs to get down from the upper mountain at Fernie Alpine Resort. From White Pass there is the groomed blue run, Falling Star, which runs all the way from the top of the White Pass Chair down to the bottom of the hill. There are short flatter sections where you might need to pull younger kids with your poles, but otherwise, most of the pitches on this run are not too steep. Once these runs are mastered, families are able to explore the whole mountain together. Even if some family members chose to hit the more challenging runs and while the rest choose to ski the easier options, everyone can still meet back up at the bottom of the lift.
Visit Town for a Treat
Located only 5 km from the resort, historic downtown Fernie is full of great activities to keep the family entertained. Bring the skates along and go for a whirl on the new outdoor rink. With snowflakes falling and the mountains surrounding you, it’s a magical experience! Afterwards, pop into the Fernie Aquatic Centre for a ride on the waterslide and soak in the hot tub. Finally head to Victoria Ave (main street) to pick up a cool Fernie souvenir from Giv’r Shirtworks and cap off the day with an authentic hot chocolate from the Beanpod featuring artisan chocolate made right in the store. Don’t forget that if you don’t feel like driving, the convenient #FernieStoke Bus Shuttle will transport you to and from town.
Stay Ski in, Ski out
Leave the stress of shuttling kids to the slopes and trying to find parking spaces behind! When you chose to stay at a ski-in, ski-out property such as the Cornerstone Lodge you’ll be in line for first tracks every morning after making a gourmet breakfast in your own private kitchen. You can also conveniently return to your condo for lunch rather than dealing with crowds in the day lodge. Does half the family need a rest while the other half wants to ski? No worries! Your cozy couch, bed, and hot tub are all right there at the bottom of the run. You (or more importantly the kids) can also enjoy night skiing Saturday evening on the Mighty Moose right in front of the Cornerstone Lodge, while other family members enjoy a cocktail or snack on your balcony or down at the Legends Mountain Eatery.
If you would like to book your family Fernie Ski Vacation at the Cornerstone Lodge, check out all of our great offers for this upcoming winter season by on our Ski Packages & Specials page.
Remember that your always get the best deals when you book direct! Please contact the hotel front desk regarding booking accommodations at 1-888-423-6855. We look forward to seeing you on the slopes this winter.