New and improved Bluewood planned

DAYTON–Ski Bluewood is in the process of replacing the fixed-grip triple chair, Skyline Express and adding snow making infrastructure over the next two years-2024-25.

Bluewood will replace the fixed-grip triple chair, Skyline Express, with a High-Speed detachable Quad. In addition to the replacement of Skyline Express, Bluewood will soon install base area snowmaking infrastructure to address early season snow variability and provide a more predictable opening date each winter.

"We couldn't be more excited about the purchase of a high-speed quad for Bluewood. This new chair will greatly decrease seat time and increase ride time on the hill, providing a much more enjoyable day on the mountain," said Buck Lewis, VP and spokesperson for the Bluewood Ownership Group. "We're eager to welcome our longtime locals and new riders alike to share in the incredible Bluewood experience. This is a fantastic milestone for our resort and community."

The replacement of Skyline Express with High-Speed Detachable Quad will break ground for the installation in April, 2025, after the consummation of the 2024-25 winter season.

"It's been a longtime goal for Bluewood's Ownership Group to secure a detachable high-speed quad," said Bluewood's General Manager Pete Korfiatis. "The new lift is the tipping point for Bluewood, enabling us to move forward with the proposed 2021 Master Development Plan. This will allow us to activate Summer Mountain Biking, a wedding and event venue at the top of the mountain, overnight stays and a whole host of other activities out of the base area. It's truly a special time to be part of a massive team that's building out a vision, ultimately providing strength to not only Bluewood but the surrounding communities as well."

A testament to collaborative efforts, Bluewood officials expressed gratitude to the U.S. Forest Service and all other government agencies for their knowledge and guidance throughout this endeavor. Their support and cooperation have been instrumental in navigating the regulatory landscape, enabling Bluewood to progress toward realizing this transformative list of upgrades.

"Bluewood is a longstanding, treasured resource for winter recreation in our region," said Walla Walla District Ranger Johnny Collin. "We are excited to work with Bluewood management as they take these critical steps to modernize the ski area and continue providing a high-quality experience for the public. For the Umatilla National Forest, being a good neighbor to our surrounding communities means making sure they have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the Forest and all the benefits it can provide."

In preparation for the upcoming winter seasons, Bluewood is set to install a comprehensive base area snowmaking system during the fall of 2024. This strategic initiative is designed to tackle one of the challenges of Bluewood's base-area elevation.

"Often, in the early season, we see the snowline 50 to 100 feet above the base area," Korfiatis said. "This proposed system will enable us to produce snow during the November cold streak and create a base depth that we can ride even on the thin years such as the one we just faced."

This infrastructure would help ensure a reliable and timely opening date each year.

With the completion of environmental work scheduled for this summer, and funding for the infrastructure already being successfully secured, this upgrade will kickstart Bluewood's transformation and commitment to enhancing the rider's experience.