DOC POW
LAKE LOUISE, AB — In my humble opinion, what one receives out of life comes back to how much passion one brings to the table. With the return of Charlie Locke to one of North America’s most iconic snow bound destinations, not only is the passion back at the Lake Louise Mountain Resort, but its heart and soul is stronger than ever.
 Doc Pow (left) chats with Charlie Locke at Lake Louise Ski Area. |
By 2001 Locke, a majority share holder in this destination commonly referred to as “the Lake,” was also behind additional snow-filled playgrounds including Fernie, Nakiska, and several others. His efforts through the 80s and 90s was the guiding force in establishing Resorts of the Canadian Rockies (RCR), this country’s biggest snow-minded resort operating company. In 2003, Locke sold the balance of his interest in RCR and started travelling the world.
For five years he enjoyed many incredible adventures around the planet, but all the while could rarely get the images of the scenic Louise out of his mind, a destination he had been a part of for almost 40 years.
Nothing like home
“When I sold out in 2003, I travelled the world and realized how special Lake Louise was, the accessibility here is huge. With so many other places on our planet you have to make huge efforts to get in a view like this, but here at Lake Louise, they are everywhere."
The new majority share owner in the Lake is a man who is not only happy in the outdoors, but one who has made it his passion and his livelihood. His life’s work has made a substantial difference in the lives of snow seekers everywhere. Locke started in the ski industry in the 60s working as a guide, making the effort and investment through the 70s to help rally the finances required to lay the foundation for present day Lake Louise.
The realization of what’s important
“I always had a five year option to get back in should I wish, and that option came up October 1, 2008.” When asked about why he wanted to get back in the game his answer was simple, “I took a look at what made me happiest, and it’s about making others happy, seeing families enjoying the snow and these surroundings, this is home.”
The locals of Lake Louise are happy to see Locke return to the snow globe village which is Lake Louise.
“I am excited to see Charlie back at the Lake, He really believes in a quality experience and one with value. He is not so financially interested as others and extremely concerned to offer affordable opportunities to ski,” said Executive Chef Al Miller of the Lake Louise Inn.
For more information on Lake Louise Ski Area or to book your ski, snowboard, or winter getaway to Banff, Sunshine Village, or Lake Louise, check out Ski Big 3's website at www.skibig3.com.