Fernie Snowmobile Association Hosts 8th Annual Avalanche Awareness and Demo Days
photos: Matt Kuhn Photography
The Fernie Snowmobile Association (FSA) successfully hosted its 8th Annual Avalanche Awareness and Demo Days event on January 18th, 2025. Despite the frigid temperatures, spirits were high as the sun peeked out, creating the perfect atmosphere for a day filled with fun, learning, and camaraderie.
The event drew a crowd of 195 attendees and featured dealerships representing leading snowmobile manufacturers, including Mountain Toys Polaris (Polaris), A&E Motorsports (Skidoo), Ghostrider Motorsports (Arctic Cat), and Widescape, all offering demos of their latest machines. Participants had the chance to test out the latest snowmobiles and explore advancements in snowmobiling technology.
Local search and rescue teams and avalanche safety professionals played a crucial role in the day's success. Fernie Search and Rescue, the Avalanche Canada South Rockies Field Team, and Elk Valley Snow Shepherds provided valuable insights through gear displays, snowpit demonstrations, and avalanche rescue training in the transceiver basin. These sessions highlighted the importance of understanding current snowpack conditions and honing critical backcountry safety skills.
"It’s always incredible to see our community come together for a shared message of safety and stoke for snowmobiling in Fernie," said Nicole Matei, local event organizer. "This event not only strengthens our knowledge and preparedness for backcountry travel but also reinforces the bonds that make our snowmobiling community so special."
photos: @Kapitan_Khaos
As part of the event, the FSA hosted a BBQ lunch, where public donations raised $1,000 to support the continued work of the Avalanche Canada South Rockies Field Team. This dedicated team plays a vital role in the region, providing public outreach and collecting essential snowpack and weather observations to feed up to the Forecasters in Revelstoke who are creating the public avalanche safety bulletins.
The event was held at the Coal Creek Rolling Hills Cabin, one of three backcountry day-use shelters built and maintained by the FSA. The club’s efforts extend beyond these shelters, with 7-night-a-week trail grooming and management of five different recreation areas in the Fernie region. With free demos and educational opportunities throughout the day, the event remained accessible to all participants, blending learning, excitement, and community spirit for an unforgettable experience.
The FSA extends heartfelt thanks to all attendees, partners, and volunteers who made the event a success. Your support helps foster a safer, stronger snowmobiling community in Fernie.
We look forward to seeing you all next year for another incredible day of learning and fun in the backcountry or at our upcoming Vintage Poker Ride event on February 15th, 2025.
THANK YOU TO OUR EVENT PARTNERS:
