Umatilla National Forest seeks Spout Springs Ski Area operator
By Dan Thesman on Tuesday, July 5th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WESTON – The Umatilla National Forest seeks proposals from anyone interested in operating and managing the Spout Springs Ski Area, located near Tollgate at milepost 22 along State Route 204 between Weston and Elgin. Responses are due by Sept. 1 and will help forest staff consider options to ultimately reopen the ski area to the public.
The operator will be responsible for all aspects of resort management, including but not limited to hiring staff and ski patrol, bar and restaurant operation, facility upkeep, and maintenance tasks.
While the infrastructure is currently under federal ownership, forest staff ultimately intends to sell the infrastructure to an individual or entities that have interest in and capability of operating and managing the ski area. The request for expressions of interest (RFEI) is not intended as a formal offering for the award of a contract or future solicitation, but to gauge competitive interest from individuals or entities in the opportunity.
Interested parties are encouraged to consider a full spectrum of potential operations for year-round use when responding to this request. Prospective applicants are also encouraged to inspect the infrastructure in person prior to submitting a response to the RFEI. To schedule a site visit, email Andy Steele at Andrew.Steele@usda.gov with “Spout Springs Site Visit” in the subject line.
Located at an elevation of 4,920 feet, Spout Springs Ski Area’s permit boundary includes 1,413 acres and 13 downhill runs that are accessed via two fixed-grip double charlifts. A portion of these runs are illuminated for night skiing. The nordic system within the permit area includes more than 20 miles of trails that range from beginner to advanced difficulty. The base area features two large chalet-style buildings that serve as the main lodge and rental shop. Although skiing is the focus at Spout Springs, past owners have also promoted mountain biking, hiking, and other forms of summer recreation as well.
Additional information about the ski area is available at https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/umatilla/recreation/wintersports/recarea/?recid=57043&actid=89
