Fernie is the place to be if you’re into the outdoors. While this small mountain city is best known for its top-notch ski slopes, there’s no shortage of things to do in Fernie once the snow melts. Summer here means cliff jumping into clear blue water, hiking with sweeping mountain views, and spending long days outside. If you’re coming from Calgary, Fernie makes an easy and rewarding long-weekend getaway!
Last Updated: January 2026
Jen and I travelled to Fernie for a long-weekend getaway, meeting up with our friends Kevin and Allison once we arrived. There’s nothing better than a long weekend with good friends, and the three-hour drive from Calgary made for an easy change of scenery. With the Elk River and several nearby lakes, Fernie is the perfect place to cool off during a summer heat wave. A weekend isn’t long enough for everything this place has to offer, but we made the most of it. Here are some summer things to do in Fernie that’ll make you want to go back.
This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of the links, I may receive a percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.
Map of Things to Do in Fernie, BC
Float the Elk River in Fernie
Floating the Elk River has gotta be one of the most popular summer activities around. After buying $25 floaties from Canadian Tire, the four of us launched at the Fernie North Bridge next to the parking lot. It’s easy walking distance. In fact, most people park at Canadian Tire after shuttling another vehicle to the Fernie Stanford Resort (5 minute drive) where the ride ends. That’s what we did. Best 25 bucks I’ve ever spent!
There are plenty of floaties, canoes, and SUPs on the river. Even so, it didn’t feel too crowded with good vibes on the water. Give yourself 1.5 – 2 hours to float, especially if you want to stop and swim. You might want to bring water shoes, and a small dry bag for your car keys. There are nice swimming spots along the way.
Swim at Loon Lake near Fernie
If you’re looking for a nice spot to cool down, Loon Lake isn’t a bad option. We took a 40-minute evening drive to the Loon Lake Recreation Area to escape the heat wave. The water was definitely refreshing! However, I’d suggest bringing a floatie or paddleboard, since the thick algae can muck up the experience…. Though the designated swimming beach is sand, and you’ll likely see a painted turtle or two. There are also many crayfish (basically little lake lobsters) that add to the experience (don’t worry, they tend to mind their own business).
Cliff Jump at Silver Spring Lake
Silver Spring Lakes are three deep-blue lakes near Elko, just 30-minutes south of Fernie. There’s one lake in particular that’s become well-known for thrilling cliff jumping. The lake waters are clear and cool, and some of the nicest swimming I’ve experienced in Western Canada. These cliffs are as low as 5 feet and as high as 60 feet above the water. Most jump from cliffs that are 25 to 30 feet high. I’ve heard this place can become packed, so arrive in the evening (or during the week) to avoid the crowds. Don’t forget your towel.
Read next: Silver Spring Lake—The Best Cliff Jumping Near Fernie, BC
Play Disc Golf at Lizard Range
Have you ever gone disc golfing? My first time was in Fernie, thanks my friend Kevin for bringing his discs. In my opinion, disc golf might be a bit better than regular golf, but I’m not very good at either 😉 Nevertheless, the Lizard Range Disc Golf Course was a fun-filled morning in the sun (before it got too hot). This 18-hole course is located in James White Park. Plan to spend an hour or two to do all 18 holes. If you don’t have any discs, just bring a regular frisbee and have some fun!
Hike at Island Lake Lodge
“Where should we go hiking?” I asked the campground attendant at Mount Fernie Campground. That’s how I found out about Island Lake Lodge just down the road. I spent a morning hiking the Lake Trail and then Spineback Trail for impressive views. I’d love to head back for more. Also, check out the restaurant options and more at Island Lake Lodge, situated on 7,000 acres of pristine wilderness.
Lake Trail
The loop around Island Lake is the perfect family-friendly hike. The 2-km trail offers impressive mountain scenery and can be completed in about an hour. If you’d rather enjoy the area on the water, consider renting a canoe for a morning or afternoon paddle.
Be warned, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife on the Lake Trail. When I visited, I crossed paths with a black bear mother and her cub, not more than a stone’s throw away. Thankfully, they were both timid and darted into the woods. This is bear country, so remember to bring bear spray (I like to use a holster) and know how to use it.
Spineback Trail
Are you looking for something more challenging? Spineback Trail begins at the same spot as the Lake Trail, though it’s a more difficult option. While there’s nothing overly technical about the trail, Spineback requires some effort to reach the ridge and viewpoint. This 7-km hike gains about 540 metres in elevation up several switchbacks. Budget around 3 to 4 hours to complete this one. It’s a great early morning option. Bring some hiking poles and a light day pack with water and maybe a snack.
Read next: Spineback Trail: Hiking in Fernie, British Columbia
Eat Ice Cream in Fernie
I’d highly recommend Happy Cow for homemade ice cream in Fernie (including dairy-free and vegan options). On the other hand, if you’re more of a gelato person, head downtown to the Beanpod for a variety of frozen treats. There’s mouthwatering chocolate there, too!
Where to Stay in Fernie, BC
Camp at Mount Fernie Provincial Park
I didn’t know what to expect when I booked the weekend at Mount Fernie Provincial Park. But now I’d say this forested campground is the perfect homebase to explore the area. Less than 10 minutes from downtown Fernie, Mount Fernie Campground is conveniently located and wasn’t crowded for a long weekend. Campground amenities include indoor toilets, showers, drinking water taps, and a bike washing station. Island Lake Lodge is only 20 minutes down the road, with great hiking and biking options nearby. After your excursions, set up your hammock and sink into a good book. I’d definitely return to this campground.
Hotels, Cabins & Vacation Rentals
There are plenty of great places to stay in and around Fernie, whether you’re looking for a hotel, cabin, or vacation rental. Use the map below to explore options and book a place that works best for your trip.
Watch The Video
Have you visited Fernie in the summertime? What’s your favourite thing to do? Let me know in the comments!
Save this for later? Hover over the image to add to Pinterest 👇
Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
