Just as its namesake did, Fernie locals and visitors alike are finding a new hiking trail “just right”.
Opening this summer at Island Lake Lodge, the Goldilocks Trail is an advanced hike that extends 2.5km from the top of Spineback Trail, looping around Baby Bear and passing between the Papa Bear and Mama Bear peaks.
With an elevation gain of 210m, the trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding valley as well as ample opportunity to see local wildlife such as pikas and mountain goats.
Island Lake Lodge Director of Sales and Marketing, Mike McPhee, said Goldilocks was two years in the making and proving very popular among locals and visitors alike.
“There have been a ton of people doing it, quite a few photos posted from it and a great review by all that have done it,” he said.
“The ladies who built it – it was an all-female trail crew – they took their time planning and did a great job building it. There’s a lot of rock moved, so there’s some really cool rock staircases and some great little paths through boulder fields.”
McPhee’s advice for tackling the Goldilocks Trail, which is 6km or 9.5km return when combined with Spineback, was to pack plenty of water, lunch and a camera.
Lodge to host grand opening
Most hikers abide by the “leave no trace” principle but they will be encouraged to make their mark on the new Goldilocks Trail at the grand opening on August 14.
Following a brief ribbon cutting ceremony and photos at midday, guests will have a chance to carve their name or initials into a commemorative signpost that will remain on display on the trail.
The Goldilocks construction team Megan Kelly, Marie-Helen Jodoin, Vickie Vanderpyl and Brenda Wright will then lead interpretive hikes, during which they will explain the trail building process and highlight trail and terrain features.
After the interpretive hike, guests can make their own way back to the lodge, where grand opening specials will be offered at the Bear Lodge.
All hikers joining the event will need to provide their own food and beverage, and dress appropriately for hiking in alpine terrain and changing weather conditions.
For updates on the event, check Island Lake Lodge’s Facebook page or call Guest Services at 778-519-8168.
Iconic photo spots contest
Island Lake Lodge is running a summer photo competition, which encourages visitors to take photos of iconic locations around the retreat and share them on social media.
There are 20 photo spots spread over the entire Island Lake trail system, which can be identified by a white sign with a unique number and hashtag.
Visitors who take photos of all 20 locations and share them on social media with the appropriate hashtags will go into the draw to win a $1000 voucher to Island Lake and a package from The North Face.
The winner will be announced on October 22. For more details, visit Islandlakecatskiing.com.
