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  • Brown dried trees and vegetation line one side of the Elk River bank and tall conifer pines trees are clustered on the other side with the backdrop of the snow capped Rocky Mountains far in the distance. The Elk River in Fernie, BC on a winter day with brown and dried vegetation, barren trees and sturdy pine trees at the river's banks and snowy Rocky Mountains in the distance.

Video by kabayan rey

Fernie is renowned for its skiing, but there is much more to see and do here than just hit the slopes. The area is filled with spectacular scenery and now is the perfect time to get out and enjoy it. Fairy Creek Falls is one of those magnificent places that you’ll want to visit again and again.

Not to worry if you’re not an experienced hiker. The trails to the falls are quite easy. That said, a lot of people enjoy this hike in the winter, when the falls are frozen. While the frozen water is spectacular, when the trails are covered in snow they are more challenging to navigate. Also, it’s important to note that when the falls are frozen, hikers should never venture to the base, as this puts them right in an avalanche zone from up on Mt. Proctor. While this isn’t a good trail to take a stroller on, kids usually do well hiking this easy path.

The trek in and back out is 4km overall and is an elevation gain of 120m. As the name suggests, the trail follows along Fairy Creek on the lower part of Mount Proctor and leads hikers to the falls. More experienced hikers might be interested to know that the trail connects to Fairy Creek Trails that heads up the mountain, and further, to the base of the Three Sisters/Mt. Trinity. 

After a day of activity, you’ll need somewhere to rest your head. If you’re in need of accommodation in Fernie, there’s no better choice than the Fernie Stanford Resort. With a variety of spacious rooms, suites and condos to choose from, you’re sure to find a space that meets your needs. The hotel also offers an award-winning restaurant, aquatic centre with waterslide, complimentary continental breakfast, ultra-friendly staff, and so much more.