Britches On A Branch

Please note this story first appeared on the Calgary Guardian website under the same name, but this version has additional photographs.

Looking up at the swanky tree at Sunshine Village. Photo Credit: Sunshine Village

Sometime around the middle of the twentieth century a new species of tree was found blooming in the vicinity of a mountain resort. This tree was unlike any other plant species previously discovered. It would blossom and grow during the darkness and cold of the harsh winter months and its leaves were oddly shaped and simply out of place next to Mother Nature's other creations. Although nobody knows for certain how such a tree began to take root it survived, some say thrived, and slowly began reproducing in the mountainous regions of the North American continent. If you haven't already figured it out I am referring to the infamous Underwear Tree, also affectionately known as the Bra Tree or the Panty tree, that grow within easy throwing distance of a chairlift.

This tree at Sunshine is below the Angel Chair. Photo Credit: Sunshine Village

The lineage of the first Underwear Tree has, unfortunately, been lost to time, but there are two common beliefs as to the whereabouts of the original specimen. During the late 1950's and early 1960's America entered what is commonly referred to as the Sexual Revolution where people first began challenging the accepted beliefs towards sexuality. The urge to find oneself and buck society's sexual norms likely played a role in sprouting the nation's first Panty Tree. Beneath the Bell Mountain chairlift at Aspen Mountain Resort the satiny buds of that early tree began to emerge. The women's undergarments, likely tossed by ski patrol's male members, were hung like trophies from the previous night's conquests. Depending on who you talk to it's also been said that the underwear needed to be stolen without the other person knowing before they could be contributed to the prized tree.

Looking down on the Underwear Tree at Lake Louise. Photo Credit: Jasper Johnson

The other commonly referenced origin story also places the tree at Aspen except its birth wasn't until the mid-1980's. According to a veteran patroller someone tossed a brazier into the tree bearing the name of a controversial figure within the skiing community. The humorous stunt was so well received that during its heyday more than fifty bras and other unmentionables could be counted hanging from the crowded branches. The tree transformed into a symbol of rebellion. Officials threatened to remove the tree and ban those who were participating in the knicker-lobbing escapades, which only lead to an increase in action.

As you can see this tree has had several contributions over the years. Photo Credit: Sunshine Village

Aspen's time in the skivvy spotlight was cut short due to the installation of their gondola and the discontinued use of the Bell Chair in the early 1990's, but the story doesn't end there. The Underwear Tree re-spawned at another popular Colorado ski resort, Vail. According to legend the initial pair of panties were procured during a particularly steamy gondola ride. After complaints from concerned families over its appropriateness Vail's original tree was chopped down, but it was reborn in one of the resort's back bowls and has flourished there ever since. If Aspen gets the distinction of being the first to have a Bra Tree than Vail is credited as the one to make it famous. The tree reached its pinnacle of popularity in 2004 when the after-dinner cocktail giant Grand Marnier used the tree as part of their marketing strategy. The tagline for the advertisement stated, "You just recognized a pair of panties in the Sundown Bowl tree...the conversation is waiting."

If you're looking to contribute, the tree at Lake Louise is below the Paradise Chair. Photo Credit: Jasper Johnson

Word travels fast, but tales of erotic triumphs are even faster. Combine all that folklore with Vail's critical acclaim and it's easy to see why countless winter resorts now boast a tree of their very own. The tradition has even spread north of the border and many resorts here in Alberta aren't immune to the Underwear Tree's silky blossoms. Lake Louise has one. So does Castle Mountain. Marmot Basin's is located beneath the Knob Chair, which cannot be a coincidence. Sunshine actually has multiple trees scattered throughout its boundaries. But the rest of Canada is not immune to the deluge of the provocative plant either. There have also been sightings at mountain resorts in British Columbia and as far away as Ontario.

You can see it's not just women's underwear, but also Mardi Gras beads and even a pair of sneakers! Photo Credit: Sunshine Village

I have no doubt the true spirit of that first tree still lives on to some degree, but I believe the reasons for disrobing today are far greater reaching than the original intent. Maybe it's just some spur of the moment fun or that skiing commando is the right amount of risque in your life or perhaps the occasion is a little more on the racy side, whatever your reason the tree will be waiting. These days you're just as likely to see men's boxers, briefs, and gitch suspended alongside those bright lacy panties and animal-print bras we've come to expect. The statement is obviously far less political and nowadays the one contributing the negligee is just as likely to be female in what was once a male dominated venture. Despite its lewd beginnings and contentious nature the Underwear Tree's lineage runs deep and is in no danger of being uprooted any time soon.

A close-up of the colourful contributions to one of Sunshine's trees. Photo Credit: Sunshine Village

Lake Louise Summer Gondola

Trip Date: July 2017

The day started out very familiar. The scenic drive west from Calgary. The bustling parking lot. The aroma of bacon wafting from the lodge. The hum of spinning chairlifts. But that's where the similarities ended. The powdery white snow had melted giving way to leafy green foliage and colourful wildflowers. Shorts and t-shirts supplanted parkas, toques, and boots. And skis and snowboards were replaced by cameras and binoculars. Yes Lake Louise Mountain Resort has long been a staple for my winter adventures, yet standing there at the base of Mount Whitehorn on a warm summer morning everything felt brand new.

Bear's Den Smokehouse and the Grizzly Chair as viewed from Whiskey Jack Lodge

Christine and Cooper getting ready for the gondola ride

You're probably quite familiar with the Lake's legendary winter rep, but have you experienced all that the warmest months have to offer? Although I feel like a veteran of the winter scene I am truly a novice when it comes to summer. I've done several hikes in the vicinity of Lake Louise and have paddled on its famous turquoise water, but had yet to visit the resort during the summer. Thankfully that all changed with a recent trip to the mountains.

Chairlift selfie!

Lake Louise as viewed from the Observation Deck

Ski and snowboard resorts are constantly trying to create new ways to stay relevant outside of their primary season. Think Norquay's Via Ferrata, alpine hiking at Sunshine Meadows, Revelstoke's Pipe Mountain Coaster, the Grizzly Bear Refuge at Kicking Horse, or Fernie's Bike Park. Lake Louise is no different, although they might be more restricted than others due to their location within a national park. Lucky for them they're able to offer some of the best wildlife viewing in the entire park using their existing infrastructure.

Looking down from the top of the gondola

The wildflowers were in full bloom when we were there

The bulk of the resort faces south, meaning it absorbs more sunlight than north-facing slopes. This abundance of solar radiation is bad for the snowpack, but extends the growing season, which is already very short in alpine environments. The resort's treeless runs are perfect for early season shrubs and wildflowers. The snow-free slopes ultimately attract mega-fauna like bears and deer (among others) for an easy meal and the wide-open spaces allow for superb viewing of some of the park's elusive residents. Combine those facts with an elevated position, such as a chairlift, and you have a recipe for spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities. Since guests are enclosed in a gondola or are high above the ground on a chairlift, the safety of both human and animal are ensured.

A panoramic shot of Lake Louise and surrounding peaks

After arriving I started my day with a leisurely breakfast buffet in the Whiskey Jack Lodge. Freshly prepared bacon and eggs combined with a piping hot cup of coffee are sure to provide the fuel needed for the day's adventures. After breakfast I made my way down to the Grizzly Chair, known as the Glacier Express the other half of the year. Winter vets will notice the lift has been modified to incorporate both gondola cabins and quad-chairs. This gives guests the option of either an open or closed experience while traveling up the mountainside. You'll also note the lift is spinning slower than in the winter. In fact it takes twice as long (about 15 minutes) to complete the journey, allowing for ample time to search for wildlife.

A Black and Grizzly Bear on display in the Wildlife Centre

The lift drops guests mid-mountain where there's plenty to keep you busy. I opted for the short walk down to the Viewing Platform and was rewarded with uninterrupted views of Lake Louise and its surrounding snow-capped peaks. From there I headed over to Whitehorn Bistro where you can dine on alpine-inspired items or just enjoy the sweeping mountain panorama from 2,042 metres (6,700 feet). Below the bistro is the Wildlife Interpretive Centre where you'll discover why life in the Canadian Rockies is equally unique and spectacular. The centre also hosts interactive programs for all ages and guided walks/hikes are available with professional interpreters. For those with more energetic ambitions there are hiking trails available above the gondola. The trails range in length and difficulty and anyone entering the area needs to be prepared for changing alpine conditions and the possibility of encountering wildlife. Just because you're hiking at a resort doesn't mean assistance is readily available; it is still an untamed mountain environment. Just remember the area below the chairlift is an active wildlife corridor and is closed to the public.

This Cougar still looks menacing even as a taxidermy specimen!

The ride back down offers some pretty spectacular views!

The ride back to the base gave me another opportunity to spot more wildlife and provided incredible views of Lake Louise, the famous Chateau, towering Mount Temple, ancient glaciers, and more. From there I wrapped-up my day with the summer version of après-ski on the Bear's Den Smokehouse's sprawling patio (that's the Kokanee Kabin for all you skiers and boarders) while soaking in the last vestiges of the fading sunshine. With the sun sitting low in the sky casting long shadows I began my journey back to Calgary fulfilled with the day's adventure and already looking forward to the next one.

Christine and Cooper on the way back down

Lodge of the Ten Peaks

On our drive back to Calgary we spotted a small herd of Rocky Mountain Sheep along the Bow Valley Parkway. Due to their large horns I had to stop for a few photos!

Rocky Mountain Sheep

Almost a full curl!

You can discover the history of Lake Louise by reading the story, Lake of the Little Fishes.

Paddling Lake Louise

Trip Date: June 2016

Lake Louise is one of the most photographed lakes in the world and it's easy to see why. I have been to the popular lake numerous times for a variety of activities (see this post for an example), but had never paddled on the turquoise water that makes the lake famous. That all changed on a recent weekend in June when Christine and I packed the truck with our stand-up paddleboards (SUP) and headed west into Banff National Park.

Rome and I starting our day of paddling

Rome is quite comfortable sitting on the front of my board!

Even though it was early June and still considered "shoulder season" the parking lot was already pretty full when we rolled in. I had anticipated a crowd, but the amount of people milling around was a bit surprising. Maybe it was the cloudless sky and warm temperatures that brought everyone to the lake shore that morning. We found a parking spot in the lower lot, grabbed our gear, and headed for the lake. We made our way through the throng of tourists snapping photos and found a relatively quiet spot to inflate our boards. Christine and I both have inflatable SUPs from Northwest River Supplies (NRS). They make awesome all-around boards that are great for both flat and moving water. After our boards were ready to go I ran back to the truck, dropped off everything we wouldn't need, leashed Rome, and made my way back to Christine, who was patiently waiting to get on the water.

My paddle + GoPro = cool photos!

Contrary to the beliefs of some tourists the bottom of the lake is not painted turquoise blue. The lake gets its colour from suspended particles of rock flour being deposited into the lake by melting glaciers.

Christine taking the lead

Christine and I with Chateau Louise in the background

We launched the boards among a host of camera flashes; apparently we were a bit of a novelty to the out-of-town visitors! I like to think it was our extraordinary good looks, but in all honesty it was likely Rome that commanded much of the attention. Everyone was quite surprised and entertained that she would sit comfortably on the nose of my board as we paddled towards the far end of the lake. Although there were several canoes out on the lake we were the only paddleboarders in sight. Many canoeists paddled over to chat and snap a photo or two of Rome perched on the board!

Playing in the water at the far end of the lake

My NRS board docked on the sandy beach

We docked the boards on the beach at the far and of the lake and did a bit of exploring while Rome sniffed every rock and stick she found. The wind started to blow so we decided to make our way back before the lake got too choppy.

Paddle selfie

Christine appears to love her new board!

Making our way back

The Caribbean of the Rockies!

Like most of the lakes in Alberta, Lake Louise is a public body of water meaning anybody can access it for paddling trips. You aren't allowed to use the docks where the canoe rentals are, but any access-point along the shoreline is fair game. The lake is just above freezing throughout the year so it's important to be prepared while out on the water, which includes wearing a PFD and proper clothing. If you fall in into the water hypothermia becomes a real danger in a very short amount of time. Exercise caution and you'll have an unforgettable experience out on the lake!

It's pretty obvious we had an awesome time paddling on Lake Louise. This won't be our last paddling adventure on a glacier-fed lake. We are hoping to get to Moraine Lake next, so stay tuned!

Plain of Six Glaciers & Lake Agnes

Trip Date: June 2009

Today's adventure was one of Banff National Park's classic hikes; Plain of Six Glaciers with a return trip via Lake Agnes.  Lake Louise is approximately 185km west of Calgary along the Trans-Canada Highway and would be kick-off point for the hike.  The day was a 13.7km round-trip hike with elevation gains of 365m to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House and an additional 385m to the Lake Agnes Tea House.  The trail started at Château Lake Louise right on the lake's shoreline.  It was about 5.3km to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House, then another 4.9km up to the Lake Agnes Tea House, and finally 3.5km back to Château Louise where we started.  We couldn't have gotten better weather for the day's outing.  Another great day to be outside!

Lake Louise, one of the most photographed lakes in the world, is named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta (1848-1939), the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria and the wife of the Marquess of Lourne, who was the Governor General of Canada between 1878 and 1883.  The lake's emerald colour comes from rock flour that's carried into the lake by melt-water from the surrounding glaciers overlooking the lake.  

Lake Louise

The Big Beehive as seen from the lake shore

The Lakeshore trail on our way to Plain of Six Glaciers trail

The lake shore is also home to Fairmont's Château Lake Louise, one of Canada's grand railway hotels.  It sits on the eastern shore or the lake and was built at the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR).  

Château Lake Louise

Mt. Aberdeen and Mt. Lefroy

Christine and I above Lake Louise

Jeff and Sarah

Mt. Lefroy and Mt. Victoria

Pope's Peak

The Plain of Six Glaciers got its name from the hanging glaciers on Mount Aberdeen, Lefroy, Victoria and Pope's Peak, as well as the lower Lefroy and Victoria glaciers.  The tea house that's located at the end of the trail was originally built in 1924 by Swiss guides employed by the CPR.  It was mainly used as a rest stop for mountain climbers on their way to Abbott Pass and the hut that's located there.   

Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House

Columbian Ground Squirrel

Beautiful emerald colour of the lake

Lake Louise as viewed from the trail leading to Lake Agnes

Christine, Jeff, and Sarah

Waterfall just before reaching Lake Agnes

Lake Agnes was still partially frozen, sitting below Mt. Whyte and Mt. Niblock

Chris and I sitting beside Lake Agnes

There was an emergency with another visitor.  He had to be air lifted off the mountain.

The chopper flying past the Big Beehive

We walked past Mirror Lake on our way back to the car

Christine and I with Lake Louise.  We made it back safe and sound.