MORRISSEY
MORRISSEY
PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION 2022-2025: Significant industrial activity is taking place for pipeline construction. As of fall 2023, much of this work is now demobilized however, significant hazards including partially buried fencing and steel posts exist.
The Morrissey trail network provides access to some of Fernie’s best intermediate technical riding areas and the new Wrangler’s Cabin warming shelter. While there are plenty of tempting spots to dip off the trail and explore, most riders will continue South through the open meadow beside the Cabin and head up the pipeline to reach the sub-alpine bowls and scenic ridge known as “the Notch”. Riders will need to navigate a few steeper climbs although a groomed ride-around trail is typically built when there is sufficient snowfall later in the season to cover creeks.
Just before reaching the cabin turn-off, riders will encounter junctions with the Summit followed by the Doug Dean trails leading North to the Coal Creek zones. After reaching the end of the Morrissey trail at the turn-off junction for the Wrangler’s Cabin, rider’s can continue further East on the groomed McEvoy trail loop. Read the ride guide HERE.
Special Notes – Portion of trail is on privately owned land, watch for snowcats and stay out of private lodge and cat ski areas. Upper Flathead Motor Vehicle Closure Area open to snowmobiling under special permit from November 1st - May 31st. More info HERE.
DETAILS
ELEVATION: Staging Area 1033m Cabin 1818m Ridgetop 2200m
DIFFICULTY: Beginner to Advanced
GROOMING:
Staging Area to Wranglers Cabin via Morrissey Trail 15km
Wranglers Cabin to Sportsman Ridge via Notch Trail 11km (via Coal Creek)
Wranglers Cabin to Griz City via McEvoy 6km Return via Pipeline 6km
Parking Lot Connector Trail Groomed weekly as conditions permit
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR TRAILS WITH YOUR FSA DAY PASS:
$30 adult / $10 youth under 14
Payable at the trailhead via cash or online HERE
DIRECTIONS TO STAGING AREA:
Head South of Fernie on Highway 3, turn left on Morrissey Road, cross river/tracks, turn right on Cokato Road and follow as road veers left into Morrissey FSR, follow for approx 2km to the staging area. Staging area not suitable for trailers. Tucks with decks to use the upper lot (go left). The lower parking lot will remain closed during winter 2023-2024.
NOTE: No overnight camping, fires, or dumping is permitted in the staging area. Commercial operators or groups wishing to host events must notify the FSA in advance as special permitting and regulations apply.
email info@ferniesnowmobile.com for more information.
HISTORY OF MORRISSEY