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  • Brown dried trees and vegetation line one side of the Elk River bank and tall conifer pines trees are clustered on the other side with the backdrop of the snow capped Rocky Mountains far in the distance. The Elk River in Fernie, BC on a winter day with brown and dried vegetation, barren trees and sturdy pine trees at the river's banks and snowy Rocky Mountains in the distance.

Image by mountainmaurice

Whether you’re an avid mountain biker or have been unsuccessful at getting your bike out all summer, the High Roller Mountain Bike Poker Ride is a great way to get in some biking action before the end of the season. The Fernie Mountain Biking Club hosts this annual event to close out the mountain biking season each year. 

The event, happening September 29, is open to everyone in the club (due to insurance requirements, non-members can’t participate). That said, anyone can join the club (even if you’re not from the Fernie area) for just $25 and the membership fee goes to a good cause - helping to maintain the trails in the area. You can’t be a fair-weather rider though, because this event goes down no matter what mother nature has in store. 

The event is perfect for all riding levels. Confident riders can take part in the High Rollers ride, while those seeking a more leisurely experience can opt to take part in the Low Rollers ride. Either way, it’s a social riding event that’s sure to entertain.

Along the way, riders track poker cards for a chance to win prizes. The courses include many of the best mountain bike trails the area has to offer and encompass both sides of the valley. 

The ride starts at 8 am at 501 1st Ave. High Rollers can expect a full day of riding. The cost of the event is yet to be announced but will cover entry to the ride, event swag, an after-ride dinner, and one free beer.

After an intense day of riding the trails, you’re going to need some relaxing accommodation in the Fernie area. The Fernie Stanford Resort is the ultimate place to recharge after a day of extreme adventure. With an award-winning restaurant, ultra-friendly staff, waterslide, spacious rooms and a view to die for, there’s no better place to kick back and relax.