Fernie, Mountain resort city in East Kootenay, Canada
Fernie sits in a glacial valley at 1,010 meters elevation, completely surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and crossed by the Elk River. The city nestles into this landscape with downtown and residential areas spread across the valley floor.
Development began when William Fernie established the Crows Nest Pass Coal Company in 1897, with coal mining driving early growth. A major fire in 1904 destroyed much of the young settlement, leading to rebuilding with new construction standards.
The brick buildings in downtown reflect construction rules put in place after a major fire in 1904, creating a distinctive look that shapes how the place feels today.
The resort features numerous ski trails across a large terrain with multiple lifts serving all skill levels during winter months. Visitors arriving from lower elevations should take time to adjust to the height.
The city is the only municipality in Canada fully enclosed by the Rocky Mountains, with peaks like Mount Fernie and The Three Sisters visible from town. This rare geographic position sets it apart from other mountain communities.
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