The Fernie Trails Alliance recently held a grand opening of the enhanced Coal Creek Heritage Trail to thank funders and partners who helped make the project possible. Partners include the City of Fernie - Resort Municipality Initiative, TECK Resources, Columbia Basin Trust, The Fernie Museum, Tembec, and the Fernie Trails Alliance.
Trail improvements include the installation of 12 interpretive panels, new bridges, improved drainage and clearing of brush. The interpretive panels tell the story of Coal Creek from geology, coke ovens, mine disasters, railway lines, and community life. The Fernie Museum provided archival information and photographs that bring the story to life.
The route follows the old access road and abandoned rail grades, great for walking, biking, snowshoeing, or Xcountry skiing.Three trailheads allow for smaller loops within the entire 9.3 km single track from Fernie.
Trailheads are located at the Aquatic Centre, Rifle and Archery Range (Coal Creek Road) or the Townsite / Old Mining site is accessed from First Creek Rd. (take the left at the bridge fork and look for the trailhead info kiosk to your left just past the corrals). Trail Map panels are situated at each of the trail heads to provide orientation. For further information on this project and others, visit www.fernietrailsalliance.com.