These sisters lead Canada's top-rated ski resort

Lake Louise, nestled in Canada's Banff National Park, is both expansive and intimate.

On one side, the area offers only a few hotels, a ski resort, no distinct business district, and limited roads.

On the other hand, the stunning beauty of Lake Louise and the snow-covered peaks of the Canadian Rockies extend as far as the eye can see. The seclusion and breathtaking scenery create an atmosphere of tranquility and perfection, making it hard to ever want to leave and return to the 'real world.'

It’s a family-run operation

Lake Louise Ski Resort, one of the pioneers and finest ski destinations in North America, is a major attraction in the region alongside the iconic lake itself.

Voted the best ski resort in Canada at the World Ski Awards in November 2018, Lake Louise boasts 4,200 acres of skiable terrain within Banff National Park, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks.

Ask anyone who has visited, and they’ll likely tell you it’s one of the most stunning places on Earth. The scenery remains largely unchanged, preserved by its park status and the care of one dedicated family.

The Lake Louise Ski Resort is a family-run business, managed by Charlie Locke, his wife Louise, and their two daughters, Robin and Kimberley. Both women, who grew up in Calgary and Lake Louise, are excited to now be at the helm of the resort that played such a central role in their childhood.

'We’ve been coming here practically since birth,' says Kimberley. 'We both learned to ski when we were just 2, and we haven’t stopped since.'

Their influence is evident throughout The Lodge of Ten Peaks, the resort’s main base. The iconic two-story stone fireplace in the center of the lodge is a direct result of their hard work.

'Do you remember when we had to gather all these rocks?' Kimberley Locke asks.

'Oh, that was insane,' Robin Locke recalls. 'Dad had us working as teenagers – hauling rocks and stones in wheelbarrows, and now those very rocks are part of this fireplace.'

Returning home after stepping away

The sisters, who had successful careers before stepping into leadership roles at Lake Louise Ski Resort, now serve as co-vice presidents, with their father as president. With two MBAs and a law degree between them, the sisters have an in-depth understanding of both business and the ski industry.

'We grew up learning the ins and outs of the ski area, then gained knowledge outside the ski industry and beyond Lake Louise, and now we’re applying all that expertise here,' says Robin.

The resort provides a wide range of activities throughout the year. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, a wildlife interpretive center, and in the summer, take a gondola ride with a chance to spot a grizzly bear from above.

They’ve enhanced the dining experience at the lodge, adding a sushi bar, Kuma Yama, which might seem unusual for a rustic Canadian ski resort but is a perfect fit due to its top-notch ingredients and culinary artistry. They are also working with Parks Canada to expand the resort’s ski terrain in a sustainable manner.

Your new ski buddies offer guided tours

'We approach this with the understanding that it’s a true privilege to operate a ski resort within a national park. That mindset shapes everything we do and everything we offer,' says Kimberley.

They’ve created a group of volunteers known as 'Ski Friends,' who lead guided tours, sharing insights into the local wildlife, plant life, conservation efforts, and the region’s heritage.

As they continue to juggle running a successful business, family life, and the unique challenges of managing a resort within a national park, Kimberley and Robin remain passionate advocates for Lake Louise.

'There’s something special about this place. We’ve been here our whole lives. It’s in our blood, it’s part of who we are. We love it here. When the chance came to return and chart the course for the future, we seized it because this is a place we truly love,' says Robin.

Where to stay

If you’ve ever dreamed of living in the world of “Frozen,” then staying at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise on the lake is the ultimate fantasy come to life. The expansive property offers mesmerizing lake views, and it's worth splurging for a room with a view of the lake since you’re already here.

The resort features a charming ice-skating rink and a seasonal outdoor 'Ice Bar' open on weekends. Inside, you’ll find a lobby bar with lake views, several dining options, shops, a spa, an indoor pool, a coffee shop, and everything you need to embrace the outdoors. (111 Lake Louise Drive, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0, Canada; +1 403-522-3511)

There are other accommodations in the area, each offering its own unique charm. For a more intimate yet equally luxurious experience, the Post Hotel & Spa, which has been welcoming guests since the 1940s, is a great option.

A proud member of Relais & Châteaux since 1990, this property exudes relaxed elegance in every detail. Whether you're lounging by the stone fireplace in the après-ski Sir Norman Lounge or savoring Swiss-style fondues in the 24-seat Fondue Stübli, the charm is undeniable. The resort also features a grand spa, an indoor saltwater pool, and a cozy outdoor ice-skating rink. (200 Pipestone Road, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0, Canada; +1 403-522-3989)

A truly unique stay

For a truly exceptional experience in Lake Louise, look no further than Skoki Lodge, owned by the Locke family. But there's a catch: guests must snowshoe or ski (or hike in summer) an 11-kilometer (6.8-mile) trail from the Lake Louise Ski Area. Unless, of course, you're royalty—like Prince William and Kate, who took a helicopter ride to the lodge in 2011. This luxurious yet rustic backcountry retreat offers an off-the-grid experience unlike any other.

Skoki Lodge includes the main lodge and three charming cabins, with a total capacity of just 22 guests. With no electricity or running water, the experience is delightfully unplugged, though every need is carefully attended to by the dedicated staff. Three hearty homemade meals are served daily, fresh bread is baked on-site, and guests are encouraged to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. (1 Whitehorn Drive, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0, Canada; +1 403-522-1347)

Planning your visit

Lake Louise is located about two hours from Calgary, Alberta, and roughly 45 minutes from downtown Banff, though travel times may vary depending on road conditions. Additionally, a park bus service offers convenient transportation between Lake Louise and Banff for those without a car.