Chapter 15 - Suspicious Minds

Travel Directions:
From Hwy 1 (Trans-Canada Hwy), take Exit 161A “Bragg Creek Rd / Hwy 22.” Go south on Hwy 22 approximately 17.4 km to the 4-way stop in Bragg Creek. (Do not follow the Bragg Creek West sign.) Turn left at the 4-way stop (continue on Hwy 22) and go 3.4 km to the “T” intersection of Hwy 22 and Hwy 66. Turn right (west) onto Hwy 66 and go approximately 18.4 km to the Elbow Falls Day Use Area in Bragg Creek Provincial Park. As you enter, the site is to the immediate right in the most upstream portion of the Area. Follow the paved pathway from the parking area over to the river and bear right. The site is on the gravel bar in the middle of the river, just upstream from the location where the “Sweet Life” scene was filmed. See:

http://www.braggcreek.ca/kananaskis/elbowriver.htm

Remarks:
This uppermost (western) end of the Elbow Creek Day Use Area has been subject to violent, disfiguring flooding, making it a particularly suitable place for Ennis to reveal a bit of his paranoia.

Despite the fact that 14 years have passed since their Brokeback summer, neither man has learned to communicate honestly, intimately with the other. Though, as Alma had figured, they “didn’t go up there to fish,” they do sound much more like fishin’ buddies than lovers.

The movie was filmed here in late June. Bear in mind that the Elbow is a dynamically changing river, one that is constantly re-sculpting its gravel shoals and banks throughout the year. The visibility of specific features (rocks, gravel bars, etc.) may depend greatly on the time of year that you are here. Trees and rock ledges may be your best indicators of the specific movie locations in this area.

Important:
Consult with wardens and take suitable precautions in Off-Highway Vehicle areas. Depending upon river conditions it may not be possible to safely reach the gravel bar. If you wish to try, go upstream toward the bend in the river and look for a safe, shallow place to cross over. Always consult with wardens before attempting to cross the river. Wear protective footgear and use walking sticks.

Quotation:
“Well, maybe you oughta get out of there, you know? Find yourself someplace different. Maybe Texas.”

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DVD capture

Contributed photo