Hiking around Fernie BC

Well summer is in full swing now.  The heat has arrived and the wildflowers are in full bloom.  There is still a bit of snow at the top of the Spineback trail, but everything is good to go.  Remember Island Lake has some of the best maintained trails in the Elk Valley.  We also have hiking guides that are great for learning about the flora and fauna of the area.

Hiking around Fernie BC
Island Lake Lodge

Dog friendly Hotel - Island Lake Lodge.

Did you know that Island Lake is pet friendly? Not only do we have one of the most spectacular places to visit in the Rocky Mountains, you can bring fido!  We will even provide a dog bed for your buddy. We have been officially recognized by petscanstay.com as a designated pet friendly hotel...or lodge in our case.

island lake lodge

Ski & snowboard movie filming - Mica Heliskiing

Our last movie shoot of the ski season happened at the the end of March at our sister operation Mica Heliskiing.  The Sherpas rented a ciniflex camera and we headed up to Mica Heliskiing.  The lineup included Rory Bushfield, Callum Pettit, Kye Petersen, JP Auclair, snowboarder Adam Chuntz and Lynsey Dyer.  The team got some great shots on the ciniflex and a great time was had by all.  You will be able to see the footage in the Sherpas movie ALL.I.CAN and Mica Heli & Island Lake Catskiings movie - The Balance of Powder.  Both will be coming out in Sept, 2011.  Here are a few images from the shoot by Mike McPhee.

Island Lake Catskiing
Mica Heliskiing
Sherpa Cinema

Hiking Trail Update - July 4th

Island Lake Lodge Trail Conditions July 4, 2011

Special Conditions Note:

We are experiencing a colder than usual spring/summer after a winter with a sizable snowpack.  Many hiking trails still have many snow patches and some trails are covered.  Check in regularly for the most up to date conditions.  Hire a guide to find the best trails and avoid getting lost.  Learn about local history and the area’s flora and fauna along the way.

Rail Trail

Major obstructions have been cleared by the trail crew, some wet spots remain.  Beautiful conditions next to Lizard Creek with good views of the “Three Bears” peaks half way up the trail.

Old Growth Trail

Clear of major obstructions; early season trail crew work is ongoing.   Keep your eyes open for spring beauty and calypso orchids along the journey.  Stay bear aware.  Some black bear families have been enjoying the old growth forest this spring.

Lake Trail

A couple of snow patches remain in the shady wooded areas.  The cow parsnip are starting their seasonal growth spurts and the Indian hellebore look lush and vibrant.   A momma moose with two newborn calves have been hanging out around the lake.  Give them a wide birth and keep pets on a leash.

Fir Trail

A great trail on a hot day!  Big cedar, towering larch, and majestic Douglas fir trees make this trail worth a look.  Please be informed that the NE corner of the trail is still under snow and finding the trail can be difficult if new to the area.  There is also a small footbridge that has been damaged by the winter snowpack.  Please use caution until it is repaired. 

Tamarack Trail

A section of blue flagging tape has been added section of trail just before the first viewpoint to help you find the way through a snowy patch.   Please note that the railing on the Tamarack viewpoint staircase has been damaged by the winter snowpack.  Use extra caution until it is repaired.  Check out what how much our resident bears LOVE our benches if you stop at the first lookout J  The trail is unchecked beyond the first viewpoint at this time, variable conditions to be expected.

Baldy Loop

You should be able to hike up North Baldy to the ridge top now as the snow is melting quickly.  If you want to continue on to do the entire loop, the trail will be difficult to find because of snow.  Consider coming back down the way you came unless you are certain of where the trail goes.   One could also hike up from the lodge via West Baldy side of the loop.  Again the top middle section of the trail may be obscured by snow.   Look for trees peeled down to the sapwood by some black bears on this trail. Keep your eyes open for the resident marten as well.

Spineback Trail

Patience grasshopper.  Still under too much snow for hiking at this time.

Hiking in Fernie