Heiko's Trail (Fernie)

Site Description: This hiking ONLY trail was finished in 2003. Heiko's Trail was built by one of Fernie's renowned residents, Heiko Socher, who moved to Fernie as a forestry manager and was integral in the foundation of Fernie Alpine Resort in 1964. He spent the rest of his life in Fernie active in the community until he passed away on October 8th, 2016. In 2017, Heiko's Trail and the Mountain Lakes Trail were officially combined and renamed as Heiko's Trail to recognise the incredible work he did on this trail. Rating: Difficult Length: 21km one-way Maximum Elevation: 2286m Minimum Elevation: 1400m Elevation Gain: 1200 vertical metres over two mountain passes.

Driving Directions:We recommend hikers planning to hike southbound to Island Lake Lodge to access the trailhead via this route. Drive 5.3 kilometres east on Hwy 3 from the north-east end of Fernie and turn left onto Dicken Road. After 600m turn right up Hartley Lake Road (not signed, yard on each side of the road) and drive another 15km on this windy, dirt road that climbs past Hartley Lake. Continue on this road and just after your second left, you will see a trail marker post. Turn left. It is recommended that you park at the first lot. If you have knowledge of driving rough backcountry roads and a 4x4 vehicle with high clearance, you may continue on to the last parking lot. There is a large trail sign showing the elevation of the trail at the second lot where the trail starts.