Fernie & Elk Valley Culture Guide Fernie & Elk Valley Cultural Guide - Winter 18-19 | Page 3

The Communities
of the Elk Valley
In the heart of the majestic Canadian
Rocky Mountains, the Elk Valley is a
hidden oasis of verdant landscapes,
charming towns and abundant
recreation. For over 100 years,
pioneers have travelled to the region,
first in search of valuable minerals, and
now seeking a sanctuary focused on
family, community and the beautiful
outdoors. Mining still forms the base
of a thriving economy that has now
diversified and welcomes a variety of
artisans, small businesses, and an active
year-round recreational and cultural
tourism industry.
FERNIE is the largest and oldest of
the 3 main communities in the Elk
Valley. A town rich in heritage, award-
winning architecture, and spectacular
scenery, Fernie charms and delights
all ages. Whether strolling century-
old Historic Downtown, exploring
the unique geography, visiting artists
and artisans or revelling in the packed
cultural calendar, there’s something for
everyone to enjoy.
Pop: 5,249 | Founded 1898
Incorporated 1904
SPARWOOD lies in the middle of
the valley and is the first community
reached on entering from Alberta. The
town’s name is derived from the local
trees that were used for manufacturing
spars for ocean vessels. The town
was founded as a new home for the
residents of the temporary communities
of Michel and Natal. Several art murals
can be seen here, depicting the strong
connection to coal mining, with some
by Michelle Loughery who was born
in the area and went on to become a
world-renowned muralist.
Pop: 3,784 | Founded 1966
At the head of the valley is ELKFORD,
a small town with a passionate arts
community. Writing, painting,
photography, and pottery are among
the popular endeavours, and well-
known glass artist Katherine Russell
has a working studio here. Elkford is
the gateway to the Elk Lakes Provincial
Park, a remote protected area bordering
Alberta’s Kananaskis Country.
Pop: 1,752 | Founded 1971
Credits - Writing & Editing by Rebecca Hall, Jikke Gyorki. Photos by Vince Mo, Fernie Museum,
Matt Kuhn, Sparwood Chamber, St Eugene Resort, Nancy Stevenson, Rebecca Hall, Nick Nault,
Columbia Basin Institute of Regional History, Will Barbour, Jikke Gyorki
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