ENVIRONMENT FEATURE
An Elk River Walk
The Elk River is a 220km freestone tributary of the Kootenay River , flowing from scenic Elk Lakes Provincial Park approx . 105km north of Elkford , through the valley to Lake Koocanusa . It is well worth the drive to the source for the picturesque lake park and several hikes including some with views of Petain Glacier .
In Fernie , Fernie Valley Pathway is an accessible 5.3km trail linking the Fernie Visitor Information Centre to Mount Fernie Provincial Park along a paved 2 + m wide pathway , with an additional paved section accessing Maiden Lake . Through Annex Park , the trail splits into two sections . To the north of the park , the riverside trail is flanked by mature trees offering shade with benches , picnic tables , and signage along the way . On the south side , the open trail offers spectacular views of the Lizard Range , Mt Fernie , Three Sisters , Mt Proctor , and Mt Hosmer .
Annex Park is a haven for wildlife . The park is a bird-lovers ’ paradise with plenty of ducks and geese and even blue herons , Stellar ’ s Jays , and many other species . Beavers are active in the park trout can be seen jumping in the river . Small reptiles and rodents can also be spotted by eagle eyed visitors . Other larger mammals do sometimes visit the park so it is always important to be wildlife aware , however they will usually hear you and vanish long before you spot them .
This beautiful family-friendly trail is best enjoyed with a Fernie beverage or snack . Start or finish with one of the new nonalcoholic beers at the Fernie Brewing Company near the Visitor Information or take a short detour to Fernie Alpine Springs at 1501 10th Ave for freshly brewed Kombucha . Another easy detour will take you to Happy Cow Ice Cream at 561B Hwy # 3 or stop off at the Bridge Bistro – the perfect place for lunch on Fernie ’ s only riverside patio .
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