The Fernie Ammonite Trail takes hikers into the Coal Creek area to see an extraordinary 150-million-year-old fossil preserved in its original location.

Beginning at the Castle Mountain trailhead, the moderate eight-kilometre return hike follows a decommissioned logging road before turning onto singletrack through open terrain, forest and a meadow. The route gains approximately 255 metres and takes two to three hours to complete.

The final section becomes considerably more rugged. Beyond the interpretive sign, the trail descends steeply into a creek bed and can be slippery when wet. Hikers follow stone cairns upstream for approximately 50 metres to reach the ammonite.

The trailhead is reached by following Pine Avenue past the Fernie Aquatic Centre, turning onto Coal Creek Road and travelling approximately two kilometres to the Castle Mountain parking area. There are no washrooms, drinking water or other facilities at the trailhead or along the route.

Visitors are asked to view and photograph the ammonite from across the creek rather than climbing on or approaching the fossil. The ancient formation is fragile, and keeping a respectful distance will help protect it for future generations.

The trail travels through an active wildlife area. Hikers should make noise regularly to alert wildlife, keep children and pets close, and carry bear spray as a last resort. Proper footwear, water, food and clothing suitable for changing mountain weather are also recommended.

The ammonite site is part of the broader Fernie Paleo Trail, a self-guided regional experience exploring the fossils, marine life and geological forces that shaped Fernie and the Elk Valley. The project includes educational stops, interactive activities, videos and a digital map connecting sites in Fernie, Sparwood and Cranbrook.