By Linda Kissam

If you live in, or are visiting Washington State and dreaming of a fresh mountain escape, pack your bags and hit the road—Fernie, British Columbia, is just a scenic 4-hour drive northeast from Spokane. This vibrant mountain town tucked into the Canadian Rockies offers a refreshing blend of outdoor adventures, creative vibes, delicious eats, and relaxing spa treats that make for the perfect getaway.

Here’s what awaits you.

Check out this Big Blend Radio “Sip, Savor & Travel” Podcast episode covering Fernie BC with Linda Kissam & Christine Grimble of Tourism Fernie. Watch below or listen/download the episode on Podbean.

THE SCENIC ROUTE TO FERNIE
Starting in Spokane, WA, your journey to Fernie takes you through breathtaking landscapes as you cross the US-Canada border near Kingsgate, British Columbia. The drive is part of the fun, with winding roads that cut through towering pine forests and open up to stunning mountain vistas. Arriving in Fernie feels like stepping into a mountain lover’s dream—charming streets, friendly faces, and nature everywhere you look.

ADVENTURE AWAITS
Fernie is an outdoor playground year-round. If you love heart-racing thrills, two must-try activities stand out:

Mountain Biking: Known for some of the best trail networks in Canada, Fernie’s mountain biking trails suit every biking level. Try the Highline Trail for epic views or the Lower North Star Loop for a flowy, adrenaline-pumping ride. The trail typically opens in late spring, around May.

Skiing and Snowboarding: In winter, Fernie Alpine Resort offers legendary powder and varied terrain. Whether you're carving groomers or seeking untouched backcountry, the snow here is pure magic.

ARTS, CULTURE & DELICIOUS EATS
Fernie’s cultural scene and food offerings are ready to delight:

Fernie Museum and Community Arts Centre: Dive into local history or catch a lively art exhibit and workshops showcasing regional talent.

Chocolate. Coffee. Gelato: What could be better? Beanpod Chocolate is one of the original bean-to-bar companies in Canada, and one of only a few in the world that specializes in making chocolate the traditional old-fashioned way. Indulge in their wide range of espresso-based drinks, such as Americanos, lattes, and their famous mochas and decadent hot chocolates. All coffee is roasted on-site daily. Pair with one of their famous Fernie Bars in dark, milk or white chocolate, along with artisan truffles and bonbons.

Fernie Brewing Co: At this award-winning brewery, there are no shortcuts. They use, “… premium 2-row barley malt and European hops and let our Ales age to perfection. We use no fillers, adjuncts or preservatives.” The result is delicious and refreshing brews. Dog friendly when the patio is open.

Cirque Restaurant: A favorite for farm-to-table dining, Cirque serves seasonal dishes highlighting the best of BC’s produce and meats in a warm, rustic setting.

RELAX & REJUVENATE
Unwind with some pampering:
Day Spa: Three Sisters Day Spa is located in downtown Fernie, BC. Offering a full range of spa services.

The Alchemy of Water: Tucked away amongst the forest and mountains. Natural therapies provide treatments to heal, rejuvenate and nourish mind, body, and spirit.

BONUS!
Enjoy this great appetizer reflecting the region’s emphasis on fresh, local ingredients like wild game, fresh mountain greens, and wild mushrooms. Here’s a recipe for Wild Mushroom Crostini with Goat Cheese and local honey, inspired by Fernie’s forests and artisan producers.

Wild Mushroom Crostini with Goat Cheese and Local Honey
Ingredients:
1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (chanterelles, cremini, or shiitake), cleaned and sliced
2 tbsp local butter or olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup soft goat cheese (look for local BC creamery options)
Local honey (to drizzle)
Fresh parsley or microgreens for garnish

Instructions:
Toast the baguette slices: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until crisp and golden.

Sauté the mushrooms: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add mushrooms and thyme, cooking until mushrooms are tender and any liquid has evaporated (about 7-10 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble crostini: Spread a generous spoonful of goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice. Top with sautéed mushrooms.

Finish with honey & garnish: Drizzle a little local honey over each crostini for sweetness and contrast. Garnish with parsley or microgreens.
Serve immediately and enjoy.

Pairing Suggestion:
Try pairing this appetizer with a cold Fernie Brewing Company’s Amber Ale.
The amber ale’s malt-forward, slightly sweet, and smooth profile complements the earthiness of the mushrooms and the tangy creaminess of goat cheese, while the gentle hops balance the honey’s sweetness.

Fernie Brewing is a beloved local brewery known for craft beers inspired by the mountain lifestyle, making it an ideal match.

READY, SET, GO!
From its convenient location just a few hours’ drive from the US border, Fernie, BC, offers a winning recipe for a getaway: epic outdoor fun, rich culture, delectable food, soothing wellness experiences, and a little dash of quirky excitement. Whether you’re craving adrenaline or relaxation (or both), Fernie welcomes you with open arms.

Plan Your Visit at: TourismFernie.com

Linda Kissam is a professional travel, food, and wine writer based out of Arizona and the Pacific Northwest, who specializes in easy, breezy destination stories sharing her favorite things about the places she visits. Visit https://foodwinetravelchix.com/