At Fernie 15.9% of winter days see 6 inches or more of snow, 24% of winter months see 90 inches or more, and only 10% of months see less than 30 inches. This is well above average snow frequency and top tier drought resistance. North-south and east-west valley systems create a precipitation trap for both light and deep powder and occasional rain from the Pacific Northwest.

Accumulation and Preservation

Fernie averages 88% open at Christmas and is less than half open by Christmas in about 15% of seasons, which is an excellent record. Fernie's alpine bowls face mainly east, but their skier's right faces are steep north facing glades that preserve snow well. The more open terrain and the lower mountain get more sun, so melt/freeze conditions are likely in these areas from mid-February onwards if it has not snowed recently.