Dayton, Washington — One of the most underrated ski resorts in the Pacific Northwest is taking its first steps toward future growth.
Last month, Ski Bluewood announced its two-year plan for modernizing the ski resort. The project for this offseason will be the installation of a snowmaking system, which will be installed this Fall. Bluewood typically struggles to get enough snow in its base area to open in November or December. According to Peter Korfiatis, who’s the General Manager, this will help them produce snow for the typical November cold spell:
“Often, in the early season we see the snowline 50-100ft above the base area. 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.”
Next offseason, the Skyliner Express will be replaced with a detachable high-speed quad chairlift. The fixed-grip triple chairlift is a slow ride, so getting a high-speed quad in there will allow guests to get some more powder laps in their famous glades. Construction will begin in April 2025, and they aim to open it during the 2025-26 season.
Buck Lewis, VP and spokesperson for the Bluewood Ownership Group described the magnitude of this project in Bluewood’s press release:
“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. 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.”
In addition, this chairlift will help Bluewood become a four-season ski resort, with plans for mountain biking trails and an event venue, among other activities. Pete Korfiatis described what this chairlift will allow them to add in the coming years:
“It’s been a longtime goal for Bluewood’s Ownership Group to secure a detachable high-speed quad. 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 Mtn 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.”
This chairlift is the critical step in implementing Bluewood’s master plan. Future plans include expanding into two new terrain pods, creating a new base area with a lodge, and replacing the Triple Nickel chairlift. The Storm Skiing Journal did a great podcast episode with Pete Korfiatis about these plans, which is worth a listen.
Image Credits: Ski Bluewood, Storm Skiing Journal
