baby change stations, an ATM and an Internet station. ... Excellent for solo getaways, corporate retreats, for trips wit
LAKE LOUISE SKI AREA MEDIA KIT 2011/2012
The Rockies’ Biggest, Canada’s Best Welcome to Lake Louise, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the proud jewel of Banff National Park. Consistently acclaimed the most scenic ski area on the planet and legendary for light, dry, champagne powder, impossibly bright blue skies and an astounding 4,200 acres, memories are here for the making. Featuring the Showtime Terrain Park – bigger and better this year – the new world-calibre snow cross course and expert playgrounds including seemingly endless glades, steeps, chutes and the impressive Back Bowls, as well as safe and friendly learning areas and beginner, intermediate and expert runs from every chair, Lake Louise is ideal for families. All abilities can explore the four stunning, sprawling mountain faces together. This is the Birthplace of Skiing in Canada. In 1931, early ski pioneers deemed Lake Louise ideal out of thousands of square kilometres they had to choose from, and so built the country’s first commercial ski operation here. Skoki Lodge, a National Heritage Site, still thrives as a secluded and romantic backcountry pièce-derésistance. Today, the Lake Louise Ski Area is internationally-renowned for friendly, helpful staff and an exquisite ambience. Home to a variety of dining and drinking venues, plentiful decks, a lively gazebo and a slate of top-notch entertainment and events, it’s an unparalleled winter destination for vacations of a lifetime. The full-service base area, mere steps from parking and just moments to the peaks, is anchored by the stunning log Lodge of the Ten Peaks, which extends an instant welcome. Temple Lodge in the Larch area is equally charming, while the front side’s mid-mountain Whitehorn Lodge, ‘view central,’ is perfect for photo-ops. Holiday bliss extends off the mountain, as the Village of Lake Louise and the Town of Banff together offer more restaurants, après ski options, shopping, activities and events than Aspen, Vail or Whistler. In Lake Louise, the Fairmont Chateau is picture-perfect luxury, while the delightful Post Hotel and Deer Lodge provide ultimate elegance, too. Family-friendly and affordable are the brand new Great Divide Lodge, just 15 minutes west on beautiful Wapta Lake and the Lake Louise Inn, in the heart of town. Visitors can experience the ethereal magic of ice skating on the fabled Lake Louise, sleigh rides under canopies of the brightest stars imaginable, dog-sledding on a crisp, sparkling afternoon, or cross-country skiing or snow shoeing on the beguiling, secluded trails. To unwind, there are many options, including indulging in the sheer luxury of a sumptuous spa treatment at the Post Hotel, a trip to Banff for a soak in mineral-laden hot springs, a topdrawer cultural evening at the Banff Centre, the area’s internationally-acclaimed fine-arts venue, or a night out on the town… the choices are endless.
Lake Louise is Mother Nature’s Playground Media Contact Information Media is welcome to reproduce the content of this media kit, in whole or in part. (Please apply photo credits where mentioned, otherwise photos courtesy of the Lake Louise Ski Area). With requests for interviews, stock photography or B-roll, media can contact: Sandy Best: 1-403-522-3555 sandy.best@skilouise,com Mike Moynihan: 1-403-522-1303
[email protected] This information and other high resolution images available at www.skilouise.com
Top Canadian Natural Wonder: Lake Louise
MSN Travel (2011)
GETTING HERE: Faster and More Convenient! Lake Louise is just 1 hour and 45 minutes from the Calgary International Airport; it’s an easy drive, with no high mountain passes along the Trans-Canada. Or for a slightly slower pace, spectacular views and possible glimpses of wildlife, the scenic Bow Valley Parkway (1-A Highway) is another option. With direct or one-stop flights to Calgary from almost all major cities in the world, Lake Louise is easy to reach from just about anywhere. There is a variety of rental car outlets at the airport, or, convenient and affordable bus, shuttle or charter services are available daily. From Banff, free buses for skiers and snowboarders pick up and drop off direct from all major hotels to take skiers to and from the Lake Louise Ski Area. And in Lake Louise, it’s even easier – mere moments from lobbies to lifts, with fast, free and frequent shuttles running between the ski area and the village all the time, just a five/10 minute drive. Best of all is the Trans-Canada Highway twinning is now fully complete! Guests have always appreciated the short access road to the ski area and the convenient parking just off the full-service Base Area, which is just steps to the chairlifts.
Now, commuters can be on the peaks of Lake Louise that much sooner! Page 2
Lake Louise Ski Area Key Statistics Average Snowfall: 480cm (16 feet) of average annual snowfall Season: Open Early November to May Lift Operation: 9am – 4pm
4,200 Skiable Acres Base Elevation: 1646m / 5400 feet Top Elevation: 2637m / 8650 feet Vertical: 991m / 3250 feet Terrain Breakdown: 25% Beginner 45% Intermediate 30% Advanced / Expert Longest Run: 8km / 5 miles Terrain Park: Yes Nordic Skiing: 14 km of groomed and track-set trails Hourly lift capacity: 13,716 skiers per hour Total Number of Lifts: 9 • 1 Gondola Express • 1 Six-person chairlift • 3 Quads • 1 Triple Chair • 1 Expert Platter • 1 T-bar • 1 Magic Carpet
Seven of Nine lifts boast a vertical of more than 375m/1230ft! Nearest Airport: Calgary International Airport Nearest City//Town / Village: Lake Louise – 5 minutes; Banff – 40 minutes; Calgary – 1 hour, 45 minutes Helicopter/Cat Skiing in Region: YES Nordic (Cross-Country) Trails: YES
Photos above by Henri Georgi
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Events Line-up - 2011/2012 Tentative. For a complete list of events visit www.skilouise.com.
November th
5 Opening Day 19th Source Monster Rail Jam 19th Burton Demo Day 26th-27th Winterstart World Cup Downhill - Men
December 2nd-4th Winterstart World Cup Downhill - Women 6th-10th Nor-Am Cup 10th Burton Demo Day 11th Lake Louise/Banff Community Ski Day 23rd-25th Santa Family Photo Days
January 8 -11 GMC Pontiac Cup Junior FIS Alpine Downhill 15th -16th Avalanche Awareness Days 26th Australia Day Celebrations 28th-30th Ski for Heart 29th-30th Skiercross/Boardercross Open Series 1 th
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March 4 -6 Junior Big Mountain Challenge 9th-13th Smith Optics Big Mountain Challenge 19th-20th LLSC Doug Meyer's Memorial Race 19th Burton Demo Day 19th Volcom Peanut Butter and Rail Jam 26th Lake Louise Slopestyle 26th Burton Demo Day th
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April 1st-3rd Ski Cross Nationals 2nd Ski Mountaineering Race 6th-10th Canada Snowboard Nationals 9th Cardboard Box Downhill Derby 9th-10th Spring Music Sessions 16th Summit Cup 16th-17th Spring Music Sessions 16th-17th LLSC Kinder Cup 22nd-24th Easter Bunny Visits the Resort 23rd-24th Spring Music Sessions 30th Spring Episode '11 30th Kokanee Freeride
May st
1 Spring Episode
February 5th Sitour Tour 12th -13th Skiercross/Boardercross Open Series 2 12th Canadian Powder 8s 26th Arts Vs. Crafts Style Session
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Reasons to Choose Lake Louise Unspoiled, Unparalleled, Unforgettable
Reliability: Lake Louise has one of the longest and most reliable ski seasons anywhere. In the legendary back bowls, on the huge upper mountain and in the picturesque upper Larch area, Lake Louise has more acres of terrain featuring all-natural snow than any other Alberta resort. On the front side and lower areas, the most sophisticated snow-making and grooming system in North America ensures optimal conditions from November to May.
Instant, easy access: The bus drop off and parking is next to the full-service base area, which is just moments from the Lake Louise village and mere steps from the convenient lifts. From lobby, to lift, to peaks, is quick and hassle-free.
Exceptional terrain, outstanding design: On four mountain faces, more terrain than is possible to ski in a week can be enjoyed by novices and experts alike. With beginner, intermediate and expert runs from all chairlifts, skiers of all abilities can tour the whole, huge, sprawling area together. Four mountain faces also make it possible to ‘follow the sun’ all day, most days, and on snowy days, there are numerous long, tree-lined runs and gladed areas to please. Lake Louise is known for brilliant blue Alberta skies and excellent visibility.
Pristine environment: Lake Louise’s iconic location and cherished status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, secure within the heart of Canada’s first National Park, ensures the environment here will always come first, and that development will never sully the unspoiled surroundings.
Friendly locals: Lake Louise staff is one of the area’s best assets, always smiling and eager to help. The Ski Friends, renowned volunteers, are often imitated but never matched. These are long-time Louise locals who know and love the area and offer free-guided ski/snowboard tours for all tastes and abilities. New this year: Free Heritage Programs – educational insights into the Lake Louise’s unique history and ecosystems.
Value/no crowds: Summer in Lake Louise is high season because of the spectacular scenery and wildlife which attract guests from across the world. Skiers benefit from lower prices in winter. And, crowds and line-ups in winter are almost always non-existent.
Ambience & Après ski abound The breathtaking log Lodge of the Ten Peaks is the perfect place to unwind. Socialize in the Powder Keg Lounge, the ultimate place to enjoy such fare as tasty pizzas, wings and salads and specialty drinks and coffees. Or, the Great Bear Restaurant offers a warm and comfortable atmosphere, a hearty breakfast buffet, popular lunch offerings and full bar service. In the convenient WhiskyJack Lodge, the North Face Bistro is a local’s favourite, serving Canadianinspired favourites with a breakfast buffet, and for lunch, carving stations, build-your-own pasta bars, salads and soups – hungry skiers leave here perfectly sated.
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On the back side at beautiful Temple Lodge, Sawyer’s Nook offers full, friendly service and a menu of delectable choices in one of the cosiest restaurants on the mountain. Or try the cafeteria for a quick lunch on a powder day. On sunny days, Temple Beach is the place to be for BBQs, tanning and people watching. The Kokanee Kabin, a base area hot spot, provides front row seats for on-and-off slope action. Enjoy live music, hot cocoa or coffees or refreshing pints in the springtime, when BBQs, bands and plenty of sunny days ensure the parties here last until well after the lifts close. The Full-Service Base Area also includes two cafeterias, a Starbucks coffee bar, a rental/repair shop, sports boutique, handicapped accessible restrooms with baby change stations, an ATM and an Internet station. The Torchlight Dinner and Ski carries excitement into the night. The ultimate Après Ski Party begins with a chairlift ride up Glacier Express at the end of the day for appetizers and spectacular sunset views at Whitehorn Lodge. Then, with the mountain to themselves, guests enjoy carving corduroy-tracks down a freshly groomed run followed by a full buffet dinner, live entertainment and dancing in the Sitzmark Lounge back at the base area.
Skoki Lodge
www.skoki.com
National Historic Site: Luxury in the Wilderness
A visit to Skoki Lodge, to this rustic, yet surprisingly luxurious retreat in Banff National Park, just 11 kilometres from the Lake Louise Ski Area, is a unique walk back in time – a chance to revel in the simple life. Escape not just to the great outdoors, but to one of the most stunning mountain settings on the planet. Accessed by a rewarding 11 km, intermediate-level trail, the lodge is nestled in the spectacular Skoki Valley, a skiers’, hikers’, climbers’ and fishing enthusiasts’ paradise.
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Welcoming, knowledgeable staff is on-hand to greet, provides a brief orientation and serves sumptuous afternoon tea services with such goodies as soups, cheeses and homemade breads and pastries. After arriving, many will mingle with Lodge companions and unwind, learn about the perfectlypreserved Lodge’s 60-year history and about how Skoki came to be the birthplace of skiing in Canada by perusing the numerous historic photographs and ski equipment that decorates the log walls. Others will relax around one of the two wood stoves or in a cosy nook or daybed with a book from the library’s collection. Dinner is an event in its own right; guests love to peek in to meet the chef and staff and marvel at how deftly such sumptuous meals are prepared in the rustic, bustling kitchen. A highly-committed team brings the finest culinary delights to the backcountry using the freshest and finest ingredients. Gourmet meals are highly-praised and menus change daily. After dinner, coffee or tea can be sipped at the dining table, board games played, or simply share stories, laughter and photographs with old and new friends. Beer and fine wine are always available. Others gather in the comfortable living room around a warm, crackling fireplace, or on the porch to take-in the dramatic mountain views and the brilliant night stars. Taking a short stroll around the area is another fun option. Breakfast begins at 8 a.m., with the delicious smells of fresh coffee, wood smoke, sizzling bacon and warm scones luring guests out from under their flannel sheets and down comforters. Following a two-course morning meal, a lavish build-your-own lunch buffet is set out. Choose from homemade breads, delectable meats and fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, baked goodies and granola to take away for enjoying during that day’s adventure. Many will then chat with Skoki’s team to plan that day’s trip. With years of personal experience exploring the area and detailed maps, managers Leo and Katie Mitzell and their staff are eager-to-help and are invaluable resources for learning about the area. Trips of all types can be recommended, from the short and picturesque, to the strenuous and rewarding. Breathtaking mountain ridges, towering snowcapped peaks and turquoise alpine lakes sparkle against azure skies are found in the vast and beautiful backyard. During the summer, vibrant carpets of wildflowers paint the landscape. In winter, the plethora of trails and slopes nearby, and the light Alberta champagne powder, make the area legendary. Skoki Lodge is a haven for those who want to escape it all, but who love to be looked after. Excellent for solo getaways, corporate retreats, for trips with friends, romantic weekends and family holidays – guests range from infants, to spry ‘young’ 80-year-olds. The main building and three private cabins accommodate parties from one to 26.
Lake Louise Accommodation Choices for all tastes and budgets… Year-round properties include: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – Grand hotel on the shores of the fabled Lake Louise with top-drawer amenities and service; a variety of options for the discerning. Post Hotel & Spa – Relais & Chateaux recognized European-style inn that radiates warmth, luxury and elegance; award-winning five-star dining and spa; extensive wine celler; cosy pub; skating rink. Deer Lodge – Beautifully restored, historic log lodge; known for exceptional dining. Featuring haute Rocky Mountain Cuisine, fine wines and an outdoor rooftop hot tub with stunning views. Lake Louise Inn – Excellent mid-range accommodation; great for families and groups; includes ultraconvenient condo units; two restaurants, pub, pool, sauna and hot tub.
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The All-New Great Divide Lodge – Best hotel for value. 15 minutes West on the newly-twinned TransCanada overlooking the beautiful Wapta Lake; double rooms, suites; lounge, dining room, pool and sauna. Newly renovated, rooms from $89, ski and stay packages at bargain prices. Hi-Lake Louise Alpine Centre – a superior-rated hostel voted by backpackers to be in the 'Top 10' list of 5,000 hostels worldwide. The on-site licensed café is a local favourite. Private or shared rooms. Extremely affordable, just 5 minutes from the Lake Louise Ski Area.
Year-round properties nearby include: Baker Creek Chalets – Just 15 minutes from Lake Louise along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway (1-A highway); beautifully-appointed individual log chalets each feature cooking facilities and fireplaces; all dining options and tastes are looked after, from elegant sit-down dinners to hearty lunches, casual tapas and delicious après-ski fare, takeaway family-style meals and pizzas, elaborate buffets, themed events and special dietary needs; New, gorgeous Heritage Centre/Conference facility. Cathedral Mountain Lodge –15 minutes from Lake Louise in Yoho National Park; ultimate mountain getaway featuring beautifully-appointed cabins, gourmet dining and an extensive wine cellar; wood-burning and gas fireplaces; delightful lounge and library; bell service and adventure-specialists on staff. Castle Mountain Chalets – Midway between Banff and Lake Louise nestled at the foot of Castle Mountain; modern, charming one and two bedroom chalets with kitchens, colour TV’s and DVD players; grocery and liquor store, gas bar, laundry, barbecues and exercise centre, library; stunning log events facility.
Story Ideas Pushing the Limits: For those with the knowledge to “play safe,” the Lake Louise Ski Area can be the jumping-off point for virtually limitless adventure. Our backyard is one of the most fabulous natural environments in the world. The immediately adjacent backcountry (or “slackcountry” as it is commonly called), offers a wealth of incomparable ski touring, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking and mountaineering, in every range of difficulty, from easy/beginner to ultra-expert. Education and avalanche awareness is absolutely essential, but very accessible. There are many programs for all abilities that can provide a passport to another enormous, wonderful and utterly unspoiled world. Even the most experienced guests benefit from Lake Louise Ski School programs. For experts, top calibre professionals impart tips for tricks, powder skiing, or bumps in private or group lessons. Or, the “Ultimate Steeps” Clinic teaches aspiring extremists how to master steep off-piste terrain, covering such things as basic airs, choosing a line and identifying hazards. Participants finish the day relaxing, recapping and reviewing their progress in the video lounge. Meanwhile the “First Tracks” program is another popular option. Get on the lifts – and enjoy fresh tracks – first. Lake Louise adds more adventure, too, with a bigger, better terrain park and a permanent boardercross/skiercross race course. The public is welcome to play all year in the acclaimed terrain park and on the course where Lake Louise hopes to host World Cup races in both of the hot new Olympic sports of boarder cross and skier cross next year.
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Romance in the Rockies: Romances are sparked and rekindled in Lake Louise all of the time, and the area has been a world-famous destination for special dates, weddings, honeymoons and anniversary celebrations since the early 19th century, thanks to the stunning backdrop, lovely, unique amenities and the meetings of many cultures from around the globe that happen here naturally each season. Many love stories unfold in Lake Louise—most frequently between typical travelers, but often, too, involving celebrities. Lake Louise appealed to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, for instance, who chose Skoki Lodge for their day off during their 2011 Canadian Royal Tour. Photo: The Post Hotel Lake Louise One of the most scenic train trips in the world also contributes to the romantic aura. Lake Louise is a piece-de-resistence in the glittering itinerary of the exquisite Rocky Mountaineer train that imbues the tradition of the grand railway experiences of the world such as the Orient Express. The Bachelorette arrived here on the Rocky Mountaineer in 2009 to take her date to what she said was “her happy place” – snowboarding at the Lake Louise Ski Area. Today, many travelers from around the world are taking advantage of various tour groups’ Western Canadian vacation packages featuring the Rocky Mountaineer and Lake Louise. “Whether visiting the romantic and secluded back country, the intimate Post Hotel or the fabled Chateau Lake Louise, all guests in Lake Louise are treated like royalty,” says Lake Louise Ski Area President Charlie Locke. Family Fun: Lake Louise is an unsurpassed destination for families! With novice, intermediate and expert runs from every chairlift, all abilities can explore, together, all day long. New in 2011, the already coveted Parents’ Share Passes – with the tried and true Senior Season Passes for the over-80 set – prove together that skiing is increasingly being taken up by the young, as well as the young at heart. Over 100 of the Senior Season Passes sell each year! Beginners will enjoy learning in designated areas. The Minute Maid Wilderness Adventure Park is a secure, super fun kids’ zone, where children gain balance and confidence. Whimsical animal cut-outs such as bears and mountain goats delight, while a safe, easy magic carpet takes little skiers and snowboarders uphill. Friendly, outgoing attendants are always on hand and family of all ages is welcome. Next is the beginners’ T-bar, adjacent, and then on to the easy-to-load Glacier Chairlift, to Wiwaxy, a safe, patrolled, beginners’ run designated for learning, only, down the spectacularly scenic front side. The Lake Louise Ski School offers numerous excellent kids’ and beginner packages as well as programs that focus on helping intermediate and advanced skiers better navigate tougher terrain. Enjoy added convenience at the Ski School this year with new online registration. For those too young to ski, there’s an on-site, fully-licensed daycare service, and Lake Louise is one of the few ski areas in North America that welcomes even very young infants—from 18 days and up. New this year: the Lake Louise’s Winter Sightseeing and Snowshoe tours and Ski Friends’ Heritage Tours. Even those who don’t ski can play, too. And those who do ski, can tour the mountain with local experts, with the option to learn about the area’s unique history, wildlife, and ecosystems. Appealing to budding young athletes, the Lake Louise Ski Club has trained young racers for decades, and boasts such notable alumni as Canada’s Favourite Canuck Ken Read. Fast and fearless, too, are the extreme skiers of the Bow Valley Freeriders, a hugely popular program for those enamoured with big mountain free skiing. In the evenings, or just for a change of pace during the day, families love to skate, snowshoe, crosscountry ski, dog sled, or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride… the choices are endless for all vacationers.
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A Sense of Sustainability: The Lake Louise Ski Area is incredibly proud to be a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and cherishes the special history, wildlife and ecosystems for which our area is iconic. Part of ensuring that the local environment is protected and can thrive for the enjoyment of future generations is a mission to educate our children and visitors. The all new Ski Friends Heritage Tours in winter, and the summer gondola, sightseeing and interpretive programs, are a part of the Lake Louise Ski Area’s commitment to helping instil in as many as possible an appreciation for wilderness conservation and sustainability. The LLSA was the first in the Canadian Rockies to introduce an Environmental Management Department, which oversees and reports about ‘green’ projects, including the development and supervision of interpretive programs and cutting-edge water conservation, waste management and recycling endeavours, and the supporting of staff in graduate level research. Lake Louise’s eco-conscious team is always looking for new ways to lessen environmental impacts, such as substantial investments in new “Green” groomers in 2011/2012 and in eco-friendly upgrades to our snowmaking systems. We’ve also been leading local industry partners in efforts to establish more public transit options within the Banff National Park ski area network, and introducing cutting-edge and energyefficient designs in our lodges, as well as replacing older chairlifts with lower-emission ones. Such initiatives are fundamental to the LLSA’s key values of ecological conservation and preservation of our unique role in bolstering public education and our reputation as an eco-conscious forerunner in this pristine, world-celebrated Canadian National Park.
Bringing Business to the Mountains: More and more Calgarians, Canadians, and even international businesses, are bringing their meetings to the mountains, to where dazzling mid-winter snows and lingering springtime sunsets on the soaring peaks work wonders to rejuvenate even the most frazzled teams, where the conference facilities are impeccable, locals are friendly, wildlife is plentiful, and the clear mountain air is perfect for reinvigorating corporate energy. Enjoying the mountains is a unique, fun and healthy alternative to the everyday company gettogether and a sure-fire way to socialize, network and bond with employees or clients. A variety of onor-off-slope packages and programs is available. At the Ski Area, the Podium Club Race Centre for example, creates a day of team-building experiences featuring lift tickets, a fun race with top-notch training and tips from our pros and a gourmet lunch. Equally inspiring is the Ultimate Powder Experience – an unforgettable early-start ‘first-tracks’ adventure, which corporate groups love. Skoki Lodge offers perhaps one of the most unique settings in North America for a ‘retreat’ in the truest sense of the word. Away from computers, blackberries and other modern distractions, colleagues are able to connect and brainstorm on the most fundamental of levels in a remarkably inspiring setting. Other local properties such as the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Emerald Lake Lodge, offer unparalleled convention packages and services as well. Page 10
Lake Louise: History, Heritage and Heroics The Lake Louise Ski Area’s history is as riveting as the setting that engendered it. WHAT’S IN A NAME? A ROYAL CONNECTION
In 1882, Tom Wilson, a Canadian Pacific Railroad (CPR) worker, was the first person of European descent to be shown the Stoney Indians’ ‘Lake of Little Fishes.’ He promptly renamed it ‘Emerald Lake,’ to suit its vibrant colour and the way it sparkles under Victoria Glacier. Shortly thereafter, the name ‘Lake Louise’ was bestowed in honour of Queen Victoria’s daughter Princess Louise Caroline Alberta.
Photo: Travel Alberta
Lake Louise has maintained a proud association with the British Royal Family since, and has hosted Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Princess Michael of Kent. In the summer of 2011, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were guests of Skoki Lodge, an enchanting group of log buildings near the Ski Area. Prince Rainier of Monaco, Queen Margrethe of Denmark, King Hussein and Queen Noor of Jordan have also visited Lake Louise.
CANADIAN TOURISM IS BORN IN THE GRAND AGE OF MOUNTAINEERING The late 1800’s sparked the Grand Age of Mountaineering, and this was also the dawn of the Canadian Tourism Industry. European Alpinists were competitively vying for “firsts” among a wealth of tempting virgin peaks, while the CPR was busily building their collection of boutique, European-inspired castles across the West. Then, in 1896, tragedy struck when climber Phillip Abbot fell to his death trying to scale Lake Louise’s Mt. Lefroy. As safety was paramount, the CPR began importing renowned Swiss Guides, basing them at their newly-built Chateau Lake Louise, and establishing Lake Louise as the burgeoning epicentre of a new era of alpinism.
HISTORY OF CANADIAN SKIING Skiing, in those pre-lift times, was a huge part of the new wave of mountain exploration, and the Lake Louise Ski Area was born in the 1930’s, when Skoki Lodge was constructed out of a partnership between an eccentric English aristocrat, Sir Norman Watson, who dreamt of recreating a Swiss Village in Lake Louise, and the Banff Ski Club, later the Banff Ski Runners, mountain enthusiasts who imagined a backcountry lodge in what they deemed the most ideal place for skiing imaginable. In 1938, modern skiing in Canada really took off, when another beautiful log building, Temple Lodge, was constructed as the beginning of the main downhill ski area. Then in 1954, the first lift, a platter, was installed on the nearby Larch slope. Three years later, a gondola was constructed on Mt. Whitehorn, which today is “the front side”. The two original areas operated independently until 1971, one named Temple, and the other Whitehorn. Today, Skoki Lodge is the cherished backcountry getaway of the Lake Louise Ski Area and a National Historical Site that still welcomes guests with the impeccable hospitality inspired by visionary Sir Watson, while the Lake Louise Ski Area spans an impressive 4200 acres on four mountain faces and offers an unparalleled vacation experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
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A SECOND WAVE OF CUTTING-EDGE MOUNTAINEERING The 1960’s was characterized by another surge of hard core, cutting-edge alpinism. There was urgency among Canadians to conquer their local peaks – so far only Europeans could claim major first ascents here. One group of Calgary teenagers, Charlie Locke, Chic Scott, and Donny Gardner, together with another group of young Canadians in their 20’s, including Brian Greenwood, Don Vockeroth, and Lloyd McKay, were driven to make names for themselves and for Canada, and developed a whole new standard of difficulty and daring, blending all elements of mountain adventure: rock and snow, summer and winter, skiing and climbing. Virtually every weekend, Locke and his friends could be found pushing the limits in the mountains around Lake Louise. His and his climbing partners’ feats included the first complete winter traverse of Mount Rundle and the first winter ascents of Mt. Hungabee Mount Victoria, and Mount Forbes. In 1965, Gardner and Locke, then just 19 years old, solidified their names in the annals of Canadian alpinism by conquering 22 major summits over 10,000 ft. in six and a half days, including many new routes such as the southeast ridge of Mount Hungabee and all of the 10 huge peaks that tower over the Continental Divide and Lake Louise. The epic effort – despite many subsequent unsuccessful attempts – would not be repeated for another 20 years. Today the stunning log lodge that anchors the base area (which Locke launched the design and construction of in the late 1990’s) is named after this expedition. But no Canadians had yet ventured onto the rugged North faces of the huge Rocky Mountain peaks – until the next year, when Locke and Greenwood achieved a huge first ascent: the rugged north face of Mt. Temple, the massive, impressive peak that dwarfs the others in the Lake Louise skyline, and which is often compared to the infamous Eiger in Switzerland. In 1967, a special Centennial expedition L-R: Gardner, Scott, Locke, Liske, 1967. in honour of Canada’s 100th Photo courtesy of Chic Scott. birthday was conceived by Gardner, 19, who enlisted Locke, 19, then Scott, 21 and Neil Liske, 29. The four men conquered a 21-day, 160 km expedition across the glaciers capping the continental divide between Jasper and Lake Louise. It took a year of preparation that included intensely studying maps and air photos and sending away to Norway for special skis, but the alpinists’ efforts paid off with a feat that is still widely celebrated as a pinnacle moment in Canadian mountaineering history. "I think that the Great Divide Ski Traverse is one of the truly great ski adventures in the world,” remarked Chic Scott in 2011. “It has not lost any of its wilderness feel over the years and is still as difficult an undertaking…. It follows a logical line along the Continental Divide, passing through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on earth." Locke also became the youngest certified mountain guide in the British Commonwealth that decade, and pioneered a new route on Yamnuska called Mum’s Tears. “My friends and I
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were driven by conquering the new – what had never been done before,” he explains, “there’s nothing like creating a new route to the top of these majestic mountains – and the views from those high alpine vantages, when you are the very first to see them. We felt very privileged and eager to be able to pioneer so much of this stunning area.”
GROWING INTO A WORLD CLASS RESORT In 1971, around the same time that the two different Lake Louise lift stations (Larch and Whitehorn) amalgamated as the Lake Louise Ski Area, Locke put his guiding career on hold, launched a career in finance and business, and started a cattle ranch west of Calgary with his wife Louise, a nurse he met years earlier while teaching mountain climbing. In the 1970’s Locke helped finance many of the original lifts and became a shareholder of the Lake Louise Ski Area. During this period, the Ski Area was operated under the skilled direction of another British Aristocrat, Sir Rodney Touche, and John Worrall. The first World Cup Downhill was in Lake Louise in 1980. Over 20,000 Albertans came out to cheer on Crazy Canuck Ken Read, who placed 8th that day and went on place second in that season’s overall downhill standings. In 1981, Locke seized the chance to return to the mountains when he bought out his partners and became the sole owner of the Lake Louise Ski Area. He spent the next 20 years building it into the world-class destination it is today. The Ski Area’s history of welcoming the world began in earnest in the late 80’s when Locke was instrumental in bringing in the first wave of British and German tourists. This was boosted when the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics showcased Banff National Park’s ski resorts as some of the most stunning and hospitable on the planet. Lake Louise hasn’t lost the attention of the international set since, and today the ski area is proud to hold many prestigious events and to host the most discerning of guests. The ski area soon became the first outside Europe to be granted to the prestigious +5 Club, which joins together the 13 most famous and historic World Cup ski areas, and has now successfully hosted over 50 World Cup races – one of only two or three ski areas in the world which can boast this, and only a couple of times has a race had to be postponed – due to too much snow. In 2010, Locke was honoured to be granted the privilege to be an Olympic torchbearer during the Vancouver Olympics torch relay and in 2011, to host the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge during their Canadian Royal Tour.
LOOKING AHEAD – A FAMILY AFFAIR Locke’s involvement in the ski industry extended to founding Resorts of the Canadian Rockies (RCR) in the 1990’s, going on to own and operate a string of eight Ski Areas and resort-related properties from B.C. to Quebec. In 2003, he sold RCR to Calgary businessman Murray Edwards in order to retire and spend time traveling with his family. Fortunately he kept a five year option to buy Lake Louise back and did so in 2008, deciding he was happiest in Lake Louise and the ski business. By retiring retirement, and repurchasing the Lake Louise Ski Area, he brought his career full circle. Today, he is very pleased to be back at the helm of the Lake Louise Ski Area, his greatest passion, teaching the business to his two daughters, Kim and Robin. Robin has completed her M.B.A., and Kim, a lawyer, is expected to complete her M.B.A. in the spring of 2012. Locke’s unique background has facilitated communication and cooperation with Parks Canada for realistic, long-range ski area development that is consistent with safeguarding a healthy, sustainable Banff National Park. His mission is to foster the same reverence he has for the mountains in his daughters, grandson, and in all future generations, while nurturing a viable and vibrant business. He is committed to leaving a legacy that honours and preserves the aweinspiring environment and to ensuring that all visitors to Lake Louise have the best vacation and recreational experience possible. --
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WHAT'S NEW 2011/2012 “This year our focus is adding value and variety for our customers,” says Proprietor Charlie Locke. “This includes: better grooming, a bigger, better terrain park and snow cross course, and tons of exciting events. There will be more family-friendly, enjoyable, convenient experiences both on snow and off.”
SPECIAL DEALS: Season Pass Holders and Louise Plus Card holders enjoy new huge savings and exclusive benefits! Season-long discounts apply at the Lake Louise Ski Area, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Revelstoke Mountain Resort and Castle Mountain Resort, on heli skiing, cat skiing, at Lake Louise & Banff hotels, shops, restaurants and more. Louise Cards on sale until December 24th for just $99 plus tax.
• More fun on Snow! Even Better Snowmaking & Grooming! Substantial and eco-friendly upgrades to the largest and most sophisticated snowmaking and grooming system in North America is a part of Lake Louise’s commitment to ensuring excellent conditions, and sustainable operations.
• New Services! Ski/Snowboard Tuning/Rental Packages/Ski School! COVETED NEW TUNING MACHING
The ski area invested in a cutting-edge, all-electronic robotic ski and snowboard tuning machine, “Challenge Max” the only of its kind between Whistler and Ontario. Skiers and snowboarders can now get the perfect tune every time, with a level of precision not previously possible, in the time it takes to have a quick coffee break. NEW RENTAL PACKAGES
Guests can now rent high-performance snowboards as an alternative to the standard fleet. And, complete cross-country or light-touring ski packages are now available too. NEW AT THE SNOW SCHOOL
The Ski School’s 2012 Ladies’ Only program begins on Wednesday the 11th or Thursday the 12th of January and includes lift tickets, lessons, return bus transportation to Lake Louise, wine and cheese, optional lunch on some days, spring après events, ski demo opportunities and of course, an unbeatable social experience in a stunning setting! The Lake Louise Kids’ Snow School makes bringing the little ones to the mountain – and ensuring a great experience for them – easy, fun and affordable. Bow Valley Kids is a 12-week camp designed to teach the young ones progressive skills all over the ski area. Or, there are various other packages for ages 3-12 including private or group lessons, on daily or weekly bases. BURTON LEARN TO RIDE PROGRAM: Teaching methods and rental equipment employed that were specifically designed by Burton for beginners.
New Family-Friendly Winter Programs! New Winter Gondola Sightseeing and Snowshoe Adventure Tours are fun for the whole family! Even non-skiers and snowboarders can now ride the Grizzly Gondola to experience the spectacular views that ski magazines consistently rate the best in the world. And, the popular Ski Friends are also back, but with new free Heritage Tours this year, too – local experts give ski tours around the mountain, while showcasing the area’s unique and rich history and ecosystems. Page 14
