The best gravel rides in Mount Fernie Provincial Park
3.9
(7)
78
riders
6
rides
Gravel biking in Mount Fernie Provincial Park offers routes through the Kootenay Range, characterized by forested trails and the drainage area of Lizard Creek. The park's terrain includes sections alongside creeks, with dense vegetation featuring western larch, Douglas fir, and old-growth trees. This area is part of an interconnected trail network extending to the City of Fernie and Fernie Alpine Resort, providing varied gravel riding experiences. Conditions in the region can be steep, loose, and bumpy, requiring appropriate tire choices.
Best gravel bike trails in Mount Fernie Provincial Park
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Montane Nordic Trails – Morrissey Road loop from Fernie, a 35.5 miles (57.1 km) trail that takes 4 hours 13 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain through varied mountain terrain.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is View Along Cokato Road – Climb Out of Fernie loop from Fernie, a difficult 48.4 miles (77.9 km) path. This route offers extensive views and challenging climbs out of Fernie.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Lazy Lizard Trail loop from Fernie, a 17.0 miles (27.3 km) trail leading through forested areas and across creek bridge crossings, often completed in about 2 hours 29 minutes.
- Gravel biking in Mount Fernie Provincial Park is defined by forested trails, creek-side paths, and mountain terrain within the Canadian Rockies. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to challenging, all-day adventures.
- The routes in Mount Fernie Provincial Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.0 stars from around 3 reviews. More than 50 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Mount Fernie Provincial Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 20, 2026
4.0
(2)
17
riders
57.1km
04:10
1,260m
1,260m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
riders
27.4km
02:08
480m
480m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
riders
77.9km
05:29
1,020m
1,020m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
11
riders
20.4km
01:38
330m
340m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.0
(2)
10
riders
60.5km
04:15
900m
900m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Popular around Mount Fernie Provincial Park
Tips from the Community
The southern end of the Town Loop trail ends here on Pine Avenue with a very nice view of Coal Creek. From here there is a path that continues to the east connecting to the Montane Trails.
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This trailhead is the main parking area for access to the Fernie Rail Trail and Lizard Creek Trail. There is signage with trail information, a small parking area, a pit toilet, and a picnic table, making it an easy place to begin exploring the Elk Valley.
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This spot is where Fernie Rail Trail ends, and Old Growth Trail begins. There is a pit toilet and a small parking area here, but no water, so plan your trip accordingly. If you’re looking to extend your journey from Fernie Rail Trail, the Old Growth Trail leads deeper into Fernie Nature Park to Island Lake, with towering western red cedars and lush forest, creating a beautiful change of scenery.
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Fernie is a little mountain town, home to year-round outdoor activity. In winter there's the Fernie Alpine Resort for skiing and snowboarding, and in summer there's downhill biking, hiking, and resort activities. Fernie has a population under 10,000 people, and it has a charming downtown to explore.
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Coal Creek flows down from the mountains outside of Fernie before emptying into the Elk River. There's a ghost-town of the same name along its stretch that was abandoned after the local mine closed in the 1950s.
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Located in in southeastern British Columbia, Fernie is known for its deep powder snow in the winter and its historic downtown area. However, like many other ski towns, Fernie has plenty of mountain bike trails to entice visitors throughout the summer. You'll find everything from gentle gravel trails to lift serviced downhill runs.
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Great spot for a lunch break
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Turning right turn off Lodgepole Road, onto Wigwam FSR, circling Mt. Broadwood. Good quality gravel road here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Mount Fernie Provincial Park?
Gravel biking in Mount Fernie Provincial Park offers a diverse experience. You'll find yourself on forested trails, often running alongside Lizard Creek, with dense vegetation including western larch, Douglas fir, and areas of old-growth trees. The region is part of the Canadian Rockies, so expect conditions that can be steep, loose, and bumpy, requiring appropriate tire choices for good grip and tread.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in Mount Fernie Provincial Park?
Yes, the interconnected trail system around Mount Fernie Provincial Park includes routes suitable for families. While specific 'easy' gravel routes within the park are limited, the broader network offers options that cater to various skill levels. For a moderate option, consider the View Along Cokato Road – Climb Out of Fernie loop from Fernie, which is 20.3 km long and takes about 1 hour 37 minutes.
Can I bring my dog on the gravel bike trails in Mount Fernie Provincial Park?
Mount Fernie Provincial Park is generally dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users. The park is home to abundant wildlife, including black bears, deer, and moose, so responsible pet ownership is essential.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes available in the park?
Yes, many of the gravel biking routes in and around Mount Fernie Provincial Park are designed as loops. For example, the popular Lazy Lizard Trail loop from Fernie is a 27.3 km route that takes you through forested areas and across creek bridge crossings. Another option is the challenging
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Mount Fernie Provincial Park?
The best time for gravel biking in Mount Fernie Provincial Park is typically from late spring through early fall. The dense vegetation, including old-growth trees, provides excellent shade, making it a good choice for rides on hot summer days. Winter conditions can bring snow and ice, making many trails unsuitable for gravel biking, though some local events like the Fernie Gravel Grind occur in late spring/early summer.
Are there any waterfalls or significant natural features to see along the trails?
Yes, Mount Fernie Provincial Park is a natural haven, protecting the drainage area of Lizard Creek, which flows through the park before culminating in a beautiful waterfall and emptying into the Elk River. Many trails run alongside creeks, offering pristine mountain landscapes and opportunities to experience this natural beauty.
What are the parking options for gravel biking in Mount Fernie Provincial Park?
Mount Fernie Provincial Park offers designated parking areas for visitors. Given its connectivity to the City of Fernie and Fernie Alpine Resort, you'll find various access points. For specific trailhead parking, it's advisable to check local maps or resources from Tourism Fernie for the most up-to-date information.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about riding in Mount Fernie Provincial Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars from around 3 reviews. Riders often praise the challenging mountain terrain, the extensive views, and the immersive experience of riding through dense forests and alongside creeks. The variety of routes, from moderate loops to challenging, all-day adventures, is also a significant draw.
Are there any challenging gravel bike routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. Mount Fernie Provincial Park and its surrounding network offer several challenging routes. For experienced riders seeking significant elevation gain and varied mountain terrain, consider the View Along Cokato Road – Climb Out of Fernie loop from Fernie. This difficult 77.9 km path offers extensive views and demanding climbs out of Fernie.
What kind of bike and tires are recommended for gravel biking in this region?
Given the steep, loose, and bumpy nature of the Rockies' gravel, it's highly recommended to use a gravel bike with wide tire clearance or even a hardtail mountain bike. Tires with good grip and tread, such as 700x50c, are ideal to handle the varied terrain effectively.
Are there any events or organized rides for gravel bikers in the Fernie area?
Yes, the region is known for its gravel cycling scene, highlighted by events like the Fernie Gravel Grind. This weekend-long experience typically offers routes of varying distances (e.g., 40km, 60km, 90km) that traverse picturesque mountain roads and the Elk Valley. You can find more information about such events on the Tourism Fernie website.
Can I connect to other trail systems from Mount Fernie Provincial Park?
Yes, Mount Fernie Provincial Park is an integral part of a larger, interconnected trail system. This network allows gravel bikers to connect to the City of Fernie, Fernie Alpine Resort, and even Island Lake Lodge, providing extensive opportunities for longer rides and varied terrain beyond the park's boundaries.
Most popular routes in Mount Fernie Provincial Park
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