Fernie Area

Town history

Rich in heritage and history, Fernie's roots are in the coal mining industry, Fernie came into being in 1898 when the railroad came through the valley. Formal incorporation took place in 1904, the same year a fire raged through the city, nearly wiping it out.

Four years later a second fire left Fernie with only thirty-two buildings. Out of the ashes arose a new approach city, one built of brick and stone. Many of these buildings still stand today giving Fernie a true heritage legacy. Extensive renovations are underway to restore and preserve key heritage buildings.

Industry

Fernie still serves as hometown to the coal mines in the area with about half the population associated with mining. The remaining business base is in visitor services, community services, retail and construction.

Over the past few decades tourism has grown steadily, providing many new amenities to locals and visitors.

Ski Hill

In 1997 the Lake Louise Group (now Fernie Alpine Resort) took over operation of the ski resort. Over the past few years there has been an acceleration in the development of new housing in town and on the ski hill.