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Birthplace of Skiing in Canada…Lake Louise, Alberta
Monday, January 25th, 2010 by Cheryl MacKinnon
For Alberta – Calgary, Banff and Lake Louise in particular, the thrill of hosting a winter Olympic Games has never faded.
Canada's Emily Brydon crosses finish line, Lake Louise, Alberta
Indeed, over twenty years later (the 1988 Winter Games were held here), BC’s provincial cousin to the east is still a force to reckon with when it comes to hosting the Olympics. As the excitement is building in British Columbia, it has never left the hearts of Albertans.
Lake Louise is a shining example as I quickly found out on a quest seeking what it really felt like to be ‘within breathing distance’ of world class athletes in the year leading up to the winter Olympics. It was, in a word – awesome! I was very fortunate to visit this remarkable part of Canada during the World Cup ski events held there in early December of 2009. A bit of background on World Cup – it was created in 1966 between ski pals and colleagues from France and the United States with the first World Cup Ski Race held in Berchtesgarden, West Germany on January 5, 1967. Jean-Claude Killy of France and our very own Nancy Green of Canada were the overall winners for the first two seasons.
The World Cup is held annually and as this one was held so close to the quadrennial Winter Olympics, everyone
Olympic Hopefuls roast marshmallows at World Cup in Lake Louise, Alta
attending, from the athletes to the supportive fans, was highly energized. The sun shone while the temperatures held around a cool -22’C – the snow conditions were good, and the world class accommodations at the fabulous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise were the proverbial cherry on top! The vibe in and around Lake Louise was infectious. If you are ever able, I highly recommend attending a World Cup ski event, especially here because if you love to ski, this is the ‘birthplace of skiing’ in Canada. Early pioneers – in 1931 – deemed this area to be ideal for putting boards to powder so set about to build Canada’s first commercial ski operation here. During World Cup Ski Events such as this and as felt during the 1988 Olympics, quickly it becomes very clear why this destination is so ideal for world class downhill events!
Interesting to note too; many athletes (World Class and Olympians) choose to stay on in the Banff Lake Louise area long
Hike the steel tram inside Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise
after their competitive careers have ended. The outdoorsy attitude emanating throughout the community coupled with access to such beautiful scenery are great motivators. In Lake Louise, visitors can experience a peaceful hike while admiring the winter spectacle of JohnstonCanyon – all icicles and frozen waterfalls, to guided snow shoeing on the trails surrounding The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and even take in a bit of true ‘Canadiana’ on Lake Louise. Hockey anyone? And best of all, the skiing is a mere twenty minutes away. It’s a magical setting which offers the best of a Canadian winter getaway.
The Resting Point
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is set against an amazing backdrop. The scenery is the key reason to the property resting as it does by the lake. Walking through the public areas and down the winding hallways of this gorgeous resort, one can’t help but think about the passion of the early builders, let alone the intrigue felt by those first adventure enthusiasts who sought out incredible experiences in such a dramatic environment.
At almost every turn, there are spectacular photographs dressed with fascinating stories of who was 
here in the beginning. Dating back to its humble start in 1890 with the Canadian Pacific Railway, to its position of prominence through the mid 1900s – hosting Kings and Queens of country and Hollywood fame, this iconic hotel jewel is a mighty special place at which to holiday.
With eight dining outlets, your palate will be tempted with Afternoon Tea to yummy fondue and outstanding ribs. Quiet contemplation is yours in the elegant setting of the wine bar – the noise is on the other side of the floor to ceiling windows as a family takes in skating on the lake. Following a day spent enjoying the breadth of nature’s beauty, and a positively delicious respite; head off to the comfort of your guestroom or suites. It is here that influences of classic, old world décor – soothing tones of burgundy, yellows and muted greens complemented by modern convenience will lend themselves to your absolutely, incredibly wonderful sleep. Upon rising, you’ll be more than ready to explore, ski and truly enjoy all that Lake Louise offers.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Standard Guest Room
Afternoon Tea overlooking Lake Louise
Photos/Courtesy Fairmont Hotel & Resorts
All other photos within this feature: R. Bond/CtoC Productions
When You GO
Travel to Lake Louise in winter via Calgary – Air Canada and Wetjet have convenient daily flights. Visit www.aircanada.com and www.westjet.com for details.
Let your imagine go while you plan your trip at www.TravelAlberta.com and www.SkiCanadianRockies.com.
More fascinating facts and history on Banff Lake Louise at www.banfflakelouise.com
Research Fairmont Hotel & Resorts at www.fairmont.com. Enter your preferred destination and you’re almost there.
Enjoyed the posts..
Man, I love snowboarding!I’ve got to check out more places around the country to go! PS – Isn’t it cool to watch all this stuff on the Olympics right now?!
Blog looks great! Always looking for motivating blogs to keep mine going!