The Purcells in British Columbia offer a skiing experience that surpasses popular destinations like Colorado, Utah, and Lake Tahoe. Nestled in the southeast corner of British Columbia, the Kootenay Rockies region is a hidden gem that many American skiers and snowboarders have yet to discover. With its breathtaking topography and frequent 50-foot snowfalls, this area boasts an unparalleled array of ski options.
One of the standout features of the Powder Highway is its ability to cater to skiers of all levels, from beginners to experts. Whether you're seeking groomed slopes, challenging backcountry terrain, or thrilling heli-skiing adventures, the Kootenay Rockies has it all. With its unparalleled natural beauty and diverse ski options, British Columbia's Powder Highway is a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
The British Columbia Powder Highway is a skier's paradise, boasting a plethora of winter activities and breathtaking mountain ranges. With eight Alpine ski resorts, 11 Nordic ski areas, and 15 snowcat-skiing operations, there is something for every type of skier.
Not only is British Columbia known for its variety of skiing options, but it is also the birthplace of the world's first commercially successful snowcat and heli-skiing operations. Canadian Mountain Holidays, one of the nine heli-skiing operators in the region, offers incredible experiences for those seeking the ultimate skiing adventure.
For skiers who crave exploration beyond the lifts, British Columbia's backcountry skiing scene is a dream come true. With over 22 catered backcountry-skiing lodges and more than 30 backcountry huts, there are ample opportunities to immerse oneself in the pristine wilderness. These huts are typically reserved through the Alpine Club of Canada, providing a rustic and authentic experience.
The Powder Highway is surrounded by majestic mountain ranges, each carrying a mystical allure. From the towering peaks of the Gothics and the Adamants to the rugged beauty of the Selkirks and the Bugaboos, skiers will be captivated by the sheer grandeur of these landscapes. The Valhallas, too, beckon adventurers with promises of awe-inspiring beauty.
The Kootenay Rockies region in British Columbia stands out not just for its skiing options, but for the distinct atmosphere it offers. Unlike many tourist-heavy areas, it has managed to retain its charm and avoid becoming overly commercialized. The ski resorts here may be more modest in scale, and the mountain towns have yet to be overwhelmed with crowds. This is the road less traveled, where everything is a bit more basic and less convenient, making it a destination that truly demands a desire to be here. The locals appreciate it just the way it is, and I couldn't agree more.
A few years ago, someone aptly named this region with its abundant ski opportunities "the Powder Highway." It's not just a singular road but rather a network of approximately five interconnected roads that form a rough circle. Embarking on a 10-day powder trip from Seattle last March, my skiing companion Scott Schell and I traversed this beautiful region. Given our budget, we skipped the pricey options of snowcat skiing and heli-skiing, which can cost upwards of $350 and $750 per day, respectively. Instead, we opted for a diverse experience along the Powder Highway, visiting three resorts and one backcountry lodge.
Southeast British Columbia is one of the best places in the world for backcountry skiing. It’s nearly a crime to visit here and not spend some time away from the ski lifts and the crowds and huff up a mountain under your own steam. If you want to get out for more than a day, however, you often need to commit: Nearly all the private huts along the Powder Highway require one-week stays, and most are tucked so high in the mountains that they require helicopter access. We lucked out: Valhalla Mountain Touring, about five hours north of Spokane, had an 11th-hour room for us for three days. The lodge is in the Valhalla Range, a subset of the Selkirk Mountains, a 200-mile backbone of Powder Highway country that runs all the way into Idaho. Yet since it is 10 miles up a logging road, the lodge is one of the few that’s accessible in winter by snowmobile or snowcat. We jumped at the opening.
Embarking on our second morning adventure, we followed Evan Stevens, an experienced mountain guide, who now co-manages the lodge with his wife, Jasmin Caton. With climbing skins attached to our gear, we embraced the mesmerizing rhythm of ascending, commonly coined as "earning our turns." The previous day's storm had passed, and now sunlight cascaded through the towering trees, casting a cathedral-like glow.
As we ascended, I marveled at the captivating scenery that encompassed the quintessential charm of the Kootenays. The mountain slopes, adorned with lush vegetation, gradually unfolded into vast expanses punctuated by majestic Christmas trees and undulating ridges reminiscent of whales. In the distance, rocky peaks emerged, etched with rugged gullies.
"I might be partial," Evan had declared the day before, "but the Selkirks could arguably be hailed as the world's ultimate skiing destination. Abundant mountains, yet sparsely populated. Lush vertical terrain. Unbelievable amounts of dry, cold, and pristine snow. Glaciers..."
As I stepped into the lodge, I couldn't help but admire the owner's pride in their establishment. Little did I know at the time, but I would soon come to understand the true appeal of this place. Nestled among higher and wilder lodges, this hidden gem offered the perfect combination of terrain to suit any weather condition. From the safety of tree-skiing during high avalanche danger, to the exhilarating exploration of ridge-running, and the pure joy of skiing down uninterrupted 2,500-foot lines from towering peaks on those picture-perfect days, this place had it all.
After a grueling two-hour climb, we finally reached a bench beneath Pyramid Peak. A breathtaking sight unfolded before our eyes as untouched mountains stretched as far as the eye could see. It was a true winter wonderland.
"Look at all the untracked pow," exclaimed Evan, clearly captivated by the pristine beauty surrounding us.
We eagerly followed Evan down the first run, aptly named Door No. 1. Our guide had given us the go-ahead, and one by one, we unleashed ourselves onto the steep powder run, whooping and swooping with sheer delight. But the adventure didn't stop there; we had another door to knock on. Door No. 2 was next, and it promised an even more unforgettable experience than the first.
If backcountry skiing sounds like roughing it, toss out the Grizzly Adams image. Over the last decade B.C.'s private lodges have notched up their games. At day’s end skiers at Valhalla return to a handsome, six-bedroom timber frame affair that sleeps up to 14 people. There is creek-furnished electricity, Wi-Fi and hot showers. There’s indoor plumbing, and a kitchen with a Wolf range. Bedrooms have feather duvets.
Groups can bring their own food or pay for catered weeks, which means breakfasts like eggs Benedict, après-ski snacks and salmon dinners. They can hire guides or be self-guided. During our stay we joined a friendly group from all over the West who had rented out the cabin. They skied hard, drank impressive amounts of beer and dove in and out of the wood-fired sauna into frosty snowbanks.
As smoke-signal clouds gently drifted in the clear blue sky, I found myself surrounded by a team of adventurous souls eager to conquer the slopes. Jules Hanna, a knowledgeable mountain guide and skilled snowboarder, caught my attention, signaling that it was time to explore Door No. 3.
"Hey Chris," Jules called out.
Intrigued, I asked, "What's that?"
With a mischievous grin, he replied, "We're winning," and swiftly disappeared into a magician's cloud of white powder.
A sense of unease washed over Scott as he blurted out, "I can't shake the feeling that we're missing something. It's been twenty minutes since the lifts opened, and where is everyone?" Gazing down from our vantage point at Whitewater Ski Resort, nestled outside the charming town of Nelson, British Columbia, we saw a scene of tranquility. The slopes basked in the warm glow of the sun, adorned with soft, untouched snow. It felt as if we were exploring a ghost town, with only a few hundred fellow skiers joining us on this idyllic Monday.
While the absence of the crowds may have been perplexing at first, it allowed us to truly savor the pristine beauty that British Columbia's Powder Highway had to offer. We effortlessly glided through the untouched slopes, immersing ourselves in the serene winter wonderland.
Experience the thrill and enchantment of skiing in this hidden gem, where breathtaking views and untouched powder await at every turn.
"It's often just as lively here as it is during the holiday season," remarked Cam Shute, a long-term resident of Nelson. "That's exactly why I chose to call this place home."
Having retraced our steps from the Valhallas, we returned to Nelson, a town situated on the picturesque shores of Kootenay Lake and widely regarded as one of the most authentic mountain communities in existence. In fact, Nelson, together with Rossland, won the esteemed 2012 Powder Magazine's Best Ski Town Throwdown poll. This vibrant town, fueled by the spirit of American Vietnam draft dodgers who settled here four decades ago, still emits a distinctive "turn on, tune in, drop out" aura. The main street, known as Baker Street, is a hub of activity featuring a delightful blend of ski and bike shops alongside establishments offering "metaphysical tools." Yet don't be fooled by the laid-back attitude – these adventure-seeking bohemians can effortlessly navigate the deep powder slopes."
In Nelson, visitors can experience a unique blend of outdoor recreation and bohemian culture. As locals and tourists alike explore the town's charming streets, they encounter an array of vibrant shops, cafes, and galleries. One can also indulge in water activities on Kootenay Lake or venture into the surrounding mountains for thrilling skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Nelson truly is a hidden gem that embodies the true spirit of British Columbia's Powder Highway.
Thirteen miles outside Nelson a tight valley clamps shut in an amphitheater of prickly peaks. A few modest lifts crawled up the easier sides of the valley. This is Whitewater Ski Resort.
Whitewater is a little frayed — and beloved. Its three chair lifts are slow. The basement’s ski locker room has a gravel floor. What it does have is nearly 40 feet of Kootenay cold smoke powder, some of the best cafeteria chow at any resort and a hometown vibe.
We spent our first day exploring the long runs and dodging the thick-necked spruce on the resort’s back side, stopping for an espresso at the food truck that the resort has parked back there. While Whitewater has just 2,044 vertical feet of skiing and 1,184 acres of terrain, it skis bigger than that, perhaps because (unlike other ski resorts) that’s an honest number; you really can ski just about anywhere here.
One of the most enticing aspects of Whitewater, besides its legendary snowfall, is the opportunity for adventurous skiers to explore the thrilling "side-country" terrain just beyond the boundaries of the ski area. These easily accessible areas offer thrilling powder shots for those equipped with the necessary avalanche safety gear and knowledge.
During our visit, we had the privilege of being guided by Cam, the product development manager for G3 Genuine Guide Gear, a prominent backcountry ski gear manufacturer. With years of experience and a sun-kissed face, Cam expertly led us from the Summit chairlift to the outskirts of the ski area, where we embarked on an exhilarating 90-minute climb towards the majestic 7,867-foot Ymir Peak.
To ensure safety, we signed out at the lodge, alerting the ski area about our excursion beyond the boundaries. This policy allows the ski area to stay aware of skiers' movements and respond promptly if needed. As we affixed our climbing skins and made our way to the summit, we felt a sense of anticipation and excitement for the breathtaking backcountry skiing adventure that awaited us.
As we ascended Ymir Peak, we were greeted with a myriad of skiing options. From Pipeline to Prospector Bowl, and eventually a steep gully known as Bat Cave, the possibilities seemed endless. The daunting 40-foot cliff at the bottom of Bat Cave made it clear that we had entered expert terrain.
Finally, we reached the summit of Ymir and looked over its mesmerizing landscape. Cam remarked, "There's a substantial 50-degree roll in the middle, it's the real deal." Looking down, our ski tips framed the half-full parking lot 3,000 feet below.
Cam further noted, "You can spend an entire morning skiing here, and the mountain remains unspoiled, even when the whole town flocks to it - which they often do!" Interestingly, one out of every four Nelsonites purchase a season ski pass, according to the ski resort.
As we navigated the most challenging part of the summit, the terrain gradually gave way to a narrow gully below. Descending further, we were greeted with an expansive expanse of unspoiled snow in Ymir Bowl, which seemed to stretch on for another thousand vertical feet. The euphoria of skiing came to a halt as we reached our lunch spot, taking a break on the sun-drenched deck. There, we indulged in a delectable spread that included Whitewater's signature Ymir Bowl, a delightful concoction of fresh curry, alongside a side of irresistibly crisp French fries drenched in miso-mushroom gravy.
The following day, our journey began. We embarked on a northbound drive, winding along roads that hugged the edges of vast lakes, with snow-capped peaks towering above us. Occasionally, the only form of protection between us and the treacherous drops were snow banks. Along the way, we encountered hot springs and logging trucks, their loads of trees creating gravel-filled sprays behind them. We ventured through a stretch of solitude, with no other souls in sight for miles. (Here are some tips for traversing the Powder Highway: rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle, avoid driving after dark, and make sure to get insurance.) Scott, our guide, consulted a road map and pointed out the various ski options available along the Powder Highway that we were passing by: Baldface Lodge, Mount Carlyle Backcountry Lodge, Stellar Heliskiing, and Retallack. Upon reaching Upper Arrow Lake, our route came to an end, and we queued up with more logging trucks to board a car ferry, continuing our northward journey.
Immersed in the breathtaking landscape of British Columbia, the Powder Highway offers an array of awe-inspiring attractions for ski enthusiasts. From remote lodges nestled in the snow-capped mountains to thrilling heliskiing adventures, there is no shortage of opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. As we crossed Upper Arrow Lake on the car ferry, anticipation grew for the new experiences that awaited us further along this remarkable route.
Revelstoke, nestled in a picturesque valley alongside the Columbia River, is flanked by the majestic Monashee Mountains and the impressive Selkirks. This charming town serves as a stopover for trains before they embark on the renowned Rogers Pass to the east. Revered as a hub for exceptional heli-skiing and snowmobiling, Revelstoke, fondly nicknamed "Revy," boasts abundant snowfall and towering peaks. Adding to its allure, Revelstoke Mountain Resort, situated just five miles from town on the slopes of the magnificent 8,058-foot Mount Mackenzie, unveiled its splendors a few years ago. With an enormous vertical drop of 5,620 feet, this resort boasts the most skiing terrain in all of North America.
Enthusiasts flock to Revelstoke not only for its world-class heli-skiing and snowmobiling, but also for its breathtaking scenery and idyllic location. Revelstoke's proximity to the Columbia River, the Monashee Mountains, and the Selkirks offers an array of recreational opportunities, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
As we arrived the next morning and joined Mike Bromberg, an experienced mountain guide who relocated here a few years back, it quickly became evident that the Selkirks were the primary attraction for him. Originally hailing from Texas, Mike shared his enthusiasm for the region's unparalleled skiing opportunities.
Describing the ski hill as a colossal cone, Mike took us up Revelstoke's only base lift, a gondola, providing an excellent view of the sprawling mountain. He warned us about the high number of skiers who tend to lose their way and end up spending the night outdoors. A ski patroller had even put up a sign at a particularly perplexing spot, with one arrow signaling the way "Back to resort" while another offered the option of "Night in the woods."
Amusingly, Mike recounted the tale of a skier who mistakenly followed the arrow towards the woods, assuming it was the name of a ski run. Chuckling, he added, "Here, a sign that says 'Cliff' is a serious warning. Unlike Vail, where it would mean, 'Hey, have some fun skiing!'"
Our timing couldn't have been better. A fresh blanket of snow, measuring about eight inches, had descended on the slopes overnight. As we embarked on our first runs, such as Hot Sauce, we encountered some icy patches beneath the powdery surface due to the recent spring sun. However, with each subsequent run, conditions improved steadily. We decided to explore South Bowl, which borders the resort and offers daily snowcat skiing. The terrain was gentle, serene, and delightfully devoid of crowds, though lacking in significant steepness.
Embracing the sense of adventure, we boarded the resort's highest chairlift, hoisting our skis onto our shoulders, and joined a line of fellow enthusiasts ascending uphill. A sign signaling the path for experts playfully named it the "Lemming Line." Within a short span of time, we found ourselves standing atop North Bowl, which showcased a different facet of the mountain. Shrouded in shade, this area had preserved the snow at greater depths, making for a more challenging descent.
Surrounded by swirling clouds and snowfall, the British Columbia Powder Highway offers an unparalleled skiing experience. Despite the lack of sunshine, the abundance of snow, sometimes reaching knee height, makes for excellent conditions on the mountains, enticing adventure seekers from all around. Prepare yourself physically before embarking on this skiing journey, as the expansive terrain and exceptional fall-line skiing offers an unparalleled challenge.
Revelstoke, located along the Powder Highway, serves as an ideal base for exploring the region's skiing options. Take a break from the slopes and indulge in a day or two of heli-skiing with reputable companies such as Selkirk-Tangiers or Eagle Pass Heli-Skiing. Alternatively, if weather conditions prevent helicopter flights, Revelstoke's chairlifts offer equally thrilling experiences. The resort also hosts a snowcat-skiing operation, allowing for flexible skiing adventures tailored to one's preferences.
Discover the beauty and excitement of British Columbia's Powder Highway, where clouds and snowflakes dance, creating a snowy wonderland. With remarkable fall-line skiing and abundant snowfall, this destination promises a truly memorable winter experience.
When I first visited Revelstoke during its inaugural season, the resort was like a young and inexperienced giant, striving to become one of the largest destinations in North America. While the mountain itself was tremendous, the surrounding amenities and grooming struggled to keep pace. The resort seemed to be in a transitional phase, trying to find its identity.
Despite some ongoing improvements, such as expanding the base area and increasing the variety of dining options, Revelstoke still faces a few challenges. The limited number of accommodations and dining establishments create a sense of randomness and lack of cohesion. Additionally, it would be beneficial to enhance the transportation by introducing more free shuttles between the town and the ski hill. However, the area has made strides in addressing these issues.
The resort has made efforts to thin out some of the forests, providing enhanced opportunities for tree skiing. Moreover, the town of Revelstoke has experienced positive changes, including the emergence of new stores and eateries. Although, I express concern over the presence of a boutique selling designer handbags, as it may indicate an attempt to mimic a more upscale identity that might not align with Revelstoke's authentic character.
Overall, it is encouraging to witness the evolution of both the resort and the town. Revelstoke is finding its footing as a premier ski destination while striving to maintain its unique charm. With further enhancements and an emphasis on staying true to its roots, Revelstoke has the potential to be a remarkable and unparalleled winter retreat.
The wipers slapped at the windshield the next morning as we headed over Rogers Pass and into the great scoop of the Rocky Mountain Trench. More ski destinations blurred past: Great Canadian Heli-Skiing, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Purcell Heli-Skiing, Panorama Mountain Village. Three hundred miles later the rental car pulled into Fernie, our last stop on the Powder Highway.
If Nelson is the patchouli-scented older sister of the region, than Fernie is the jock little brother. That’s how the local novelist Angie Abdou described her home to me. Founded as a coal town, Fernie is still propped up by mining incomes, but also has a serious skiing addiction, buoyed by the money of Calgary residents, or “CaliFernians,” who ski here on the weekends, Angie said.
As an avid skier, I had always dreamt of experiencing the wonders of Fernie. With an average snowfall of 444 inches each winter, the resort is renowned for its snow vortex, providing optimal skiing conditions. The close proximity of the ski area to the charming town, surrounded by the picturesque Lizard Range, creates an enchanting scene reminiscent of a mighty wave frozen in time, waiting to crash over the historic downtown.
During my visit, my companion Angie suggested exploring Cedar Bowl, the northernmost bowl among the five alpine bowls in Fernie. This bowl offers a unique skiing experience and allows for breathtaking views of the surrounding terrain. It's incredible how these bowls are perfectly aligned, resembling tilted teacups ready to be explored.
Unfortunately, our promising powder adventure in Fernie was dampened by a rain crust that had formed on the snow. This occasional temperature spike that Fernie experiences even in the heart of winter can destroy the snow conditions until the next snowfall. Although the recent damage caused by the rain crust was still visible due to the lack of sufficient fresh snow, the scenic beauty of Fernie's Kodachrome views remained hidden under the thick blanket of woolly clouds. Despite this setback, we made the most of our time on the slopes, enjoying the superb grooming that Fernie had to offer. In fact, we found Fernie to have the best and most comprehensive grooming out of all the destinations we explored on the renowned Powder Highway. We also ventured into the enchanting tree-lined trails, envisioning a return visit when the conditions would be more favorable and Fernie would truly dazzle us.
Scott and I decided to wrap up our day on the slopes after a few leisurely runs. We understood the importance of not pushing ourselves too hard. Moreover, after spending nine days on the road, we were feeling a bit worn out.
During our incredible 10-day, 1,700-mile journey from Seattle, we had the privilege of experiencing some of the finest snow conditions of the entire winter season. Not only were the skiing conditions exceptional, but we also had the opportunity to meet some incredible individuals and enjoy short wait times at the chairlifts. As we made our way back home, we couldn't help but make plans to return to the Powder Highway with more time and resources at our disposal.
IF YOU GO
For more information on the Powder Highway, visit powderhighway.com.
SKI AREAS
Whitewater Ski Resort is 13 miles south of Nelson, British Columbia, which in turn is about 150 miles due north of Spokane, Wash. Lift tickets, 69 Canadian dollars, about $62.60 at 110 Canadian to the U.S. dollars), Shuttle service from the Spokane airport is available; skiwhitewater.com.
Revelstoke Mountain Resort is 156 miles northwest of Nelson. It is often reached by American skiers who fly into the international airport at Kelowna, British Columbia, 124 miles to the southwest, and then rent a car. Lift tickets, 84 dollars (77 dollars online); revelstokemountainresort.com.
Fernie Alpine Resort is 180 miles south of Calgary, Alberta, and 118 miles north of Kalispell, Mont. Van and scheduled shuttle service is available from the Calgary airport. Lift tickets, 87 dollars; skifernie.com.
Exploring the Wilderness
Nestled high in the Valhalla Mountains, away from the humdrum of New Denver town, you'll find a gem of accommodation – Valhalla Mountain Touring. With room for 12-14 guests, the lodge is a coveted destination, often filled a year in advance during peak periods. The duration of stay is typically a week, with options for guided or autonomous tours, full catering services or self-catering. Depending on your choice of services, anticipate costs ranging from approximately 1,200 to 2,100 dollars per person. You can find more details on vmt.ca.
Powder Wonderland
The Powder Highway has a myriad of choices to offer, from full-board lodges to self-catering huts. To navigate your options, refer to the Backcountry Lodges of British Columbia Association, a comprehensive resource found at backcountrylodgesofbc.com
Additional Winter Adventures
For adventure enthusiasts looking for more adrenalin-filled exploits, consider heli-skiing or snowcat-skiing. The authoritative source for these activities is HeliCat Canada, an organization comprising multiple operators. Visit their site at helicatcanada.com for more information.
By the way, the Powder Highway is often categorized as one of the most exciting areas to explore during the winter season. In particular, New Denver is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor recreational activities, offering a unique experience that nature enthusiasts will surely appreciate. The area has an abundance of wild beauty waiting to be discovered.
NOURISHMENT
Beginning your skiing day in Nelson just doesn't feel complete without a pit stop for a robust cappuccino at Oso Negro Coffee, located on 604 Ward Street, standing uniquely one block higher than Baker Street. Visit their website for more information: osonegrocoffee.com.
A sure gastronomic delight spot is All Seasons Cafe (address: 620 Herridge Lane), reachable at: allseasonscafe.com. However, a new competitor is surging in the culinary landscape which is the snug Bibo. Spearheaded by chef Matteo Guerra, Bibo maintains Nelson's established reputation for offering quality foods despite being a compact city. It serves unique dishes like a scrumptious vegetable cheesecake with a crunchy pecan crust accompanied by seasonal vegetables for just 20 dollars. As a seafood delicacy, there's the spiced Pacific ling cod complemented with spicy jalapeño corn fritters available for 23 dollars. Nelson's commitment to gourmet food is demonstrated by businesses like Bibo which, though newer to the scene, is already leaving a distinctive mark.
ACCOMMODATION
Experience unrivaled luxury at Revelstoke's foremost accommodation option, the Sutton Place Hotel. Situated ideally at the heart of all the skiing activity, this elegant stay provides an extensive selection of 221 spaces encompassing everything from simplistic studios to opulent penthouses. Each accommodation comes replete with ski access, fully-equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and breathtaking views. Further enriching your stay is an Aveda spa, the Refinery, inaugurated recently last February. Note, however, that immediate surroundings are devoid of much else and the city center lies a few miles away. High-season rates per room range from 199 to 1,179 dollars; more details at revelstoke.suttonplace.com. While Revelstoke is primarily known for its winter sports and alpine experiences, those looking for urban exploration can find attractive accommodations in the region's metropolises as well. Particularly, when venturing out to the bustling city of Vancouver, finding a place that combines comfort and convenience is essential. For those considering an extended stay or seeking the comforts of home, perusing Vancouver Apartments at britishcolumbiahotels.net can offer a bevy of options suited to a wide range of preferences and budgets, ensuring your trip to British Columbia is as memorable in the city as it is on the slopes.
On the other hand, Fernie boasts the charming 901 Fernie. In perfect symbiosis with the town's historic shopping street this, once school building, now morphed into luxury condos for rent, offering from two to five bedrooms. Every condo brags a high-end kitchen and a bathroom packed with state-of-the-art features such as heated flooring and an endless supply of hot water through the tankless system, perfectly complementing the in-house spa- Spa 901. Prices start at 290 dollars per night for a two-bedroom condo; more information can be found at tourismfernie.com.