Fernie’s Avalanche Awareness & Demo Days: Nine Years of Community on Snow

Jan 19

On Saturday, January 17, the Fernie Snowmobile Association (FSA) brought the snowmobiling community together at the Rolling Hills Cabin in Coal Creek for the 9th Annual Avalanche Awareness & Snowmobile Demo Days — a signature winter event centered on education, connection, and shared time on the snow.

Riders of all ages and experience levels attended throughout the day, creating the inclusive, welcoming atmosphere that has come to define this event. From families and newer riders to long-time sledders, Avalanche Awareness & Demo Days continues to reflect the depth and strength of Fernie’s snowmobiling community.

Regional dealerships Mountain Toys Polaris, A&E Motorsports (Ski-Doo), and Ghostrider Motorsports (Arctic Cat) were on site with demo sleds and knowledgeable staff. Riders had the opportunity to explore the latest models, ask questions, and connect directly with dealership teams to learn more about new technology, features, and setup.

Avalanche education was front and center, with Avalanche Canada and local avalanche education provider Elk Valley Snow Shepherds on hand throughout the day. Riders engaged in meaningful conversations around terrain awareness, decision-making, and backcountry safety, while the transceiver basin saw steady use as participants practiced rescue skills. There was also a snow profile demonstration, helping attendees better understand the structure of this season’s snowpack and how it relates to conditions in the region.

A community BBQ ran throughout the day, adding to the social atmosphere and raising funds in support of Avalanche Canada — a meaningful way to give back to the organizations that support rider safety across the region.

“This event started nine years ago as a simple idea — to create an approachable space where riders could learn and connect,” said Justin Boehm, one of the original organizers. “Seeing how the community continues to show up year after year is something we’re really proud of.”

Originally an idea brought forward to the Fernie Snowmobile Association by Elk Valley Snow Shepherds, Avalanche Awareness & Demo Days has grown into one of the club’s signature winter events. Today, it is delivered by a dedicated group of FSA volunteers and partners who continue to build a strong, safety-focused snowmobiling culture in the Fernie area.

The Fernie Snowmobile Association would like to thank all volunteers, presenters, dealerships, partners, and riders who helped make the 2026 Avalanche Awareness & Demo Days another positive and meaningful community gathering.