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Panties and bras on ski lift trees.
The practice of decorating trees with bras and panties near ski lifts is a unique aspect of ski culture. The tradition is believed to have originated in the late 1970s or early 1980s at Aspen Mountain in Colorado, with the first reported instance under the Bell Mountain chairlift.

Initially, the panties were hung as a playful gesture, often in protest or as a joke. Over time, the tradition spread to other ski resorts, including Vail, where the first panty tree was found chopped down in 1997, only to be replaced by another tree. The practice has since become a beloved and iconic part of the ski experience.

Reasons Behind the Tradition

While the original purpose of the panty trees has been lost to time, several theories have emerged:

Protest: One theory suggests that the first panty tree was a protest against the Aspen Skiing Co. Vice President, with the bra bearing his name.
Humor: Another theory proposes that the tradition began as a lighthearted joke, with the bras and panties serving as a playful surprise for fellow skiers.
Ski Culture: Some argue that the panty trees represent a way to maintain a sense of community and playfulness within the ski culture, which has been threatened by commercialization.
Current State

Today, panty trees can be found at various ski resorts in the United States and Canada. While some resorts have seen a decline in the tradition, others continue to thrive. The practice has also evolved, with some resorts featuring a mix of bras, panties, and other items like Mardi Gras beads and boots.

Interesting Facts

According to veteran Aspen Mountain ski patroller Tim Cooney, the first panty tree was decorated with a robust nursing bra.
The tradition has been featured in advertisements, including a 2005 liqueur company commercial showcasing the Sun Down Bowl tree in Vail.
Some ski resorts have considered replacing traditional bras and panties with more inclusive items, such as men’s underwear, to promote equality.