With the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, visiting Historic Downtown Fernie in Canada’s British Columbia is truly like stepping into an idealized film setting. For its cinematic appeal, it’s been used frequently for movies, including Cold Pursuit and Disney’s Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups. Walk down 2nd Avenue past many businesses lining the street. The nearby mountains offer seasonal wilderness hikes and skiing or snowshoeing.

Learn about the area’s history at the Fernie Museum or take a guided 90-minute walking tour of downtown to discover its colorful past. City Hall is located in a handsome stone building surrounded by a garden, where you’ll find the Miner’s Walk. The walk highlights Fernie’s important coal industry and its miners. Children’s entertainment along the walk includes fun challenges. Look for the sculpture of a miner’s face that changes appearance at various viewing angles.

Another impressive building with a spectacular backdrop is the Court House. Named one of the best buildings in British Columbia, its interior of oak and stained glass is magnificent. Take outstanding photos of the chateau-style structure with its cenotaph and mountains in the distance.

Choose from easy trips, day hikes or backpacking excursions to visit the beckoning mountains. Go to Fairy Creek Falls, about 2 miles (3 kilometers) from downtown, or Mount Fernie Provincial Park for a year-round walking or biking area on gentle trails. Take a day hike to the Three Sisters that are clearly visible from downtown. Plan on hiking to Fernie Alpine Resort, which incorporates a chairlift, or use the shuttle from town in winter for ski trips. The resort has summer activities too, such as an aerial park with a portion that’s free for small children aged 2 and up.

By car you can travel to Historic Downtown Fernie in 11 hours from Vancouver or 3 hours from Calgary. The closest international airport is in Cranbrook, about a 1-hour drive away.