Back in May, Umatilla County announced they were taking bids to re-open and operate a legendary ski resort, located in Union County. Now, it appears to be happening.
Spout Springs Has New Operators
It began as a tow rope ski facility in the early 1950’s then opened for ‘regular’ skiing in 1956. Closed in 2016 following some rough economic times and financial disputes, the US Forest Service-owned facility has sat quiet.
Umatilla County was asked by Union County to facilities the process of finding a new operator and they just approved one. According to Umatilla County Officials and Elkhorn Media, the owner of Tollgate Crossing is the leader of the the new management team.
The New Team has 3 Members
Tollgate Crossing is a popular destination resort with a store and eatery, and surrounding activities for snowmobilers, hikers and hunters. Trevor Abdell will be joined by Hayden Homes CEO Dennis Murphy and Jeff Kohnstamm who owns Timberline Lodge and RLK and Co.
Their bid was accepted over others from Anthony Lakes Outdoor Recreation Association (ALORA) and another Geoffrey LeGault of Klamath Falls, according to Elkhorn.
It is not known if the resumption of activities will begin this winter, but limited skiing and winter-related choices will be a part. The long-term plan will utilize the facility for off-season events, from music performances disc golf and mountain biking. This image, from the Umatilla County Commissioners media packet, shows some proposed changes to the resort area.
The proposal indicated the new team plans to re-open as soon as possible. Regional Officials have been trying to find a new operator, recognizing the economic and tourism value the resort brought to Union and Umatilla County.
KEEP READING: Scroll to see what the big headlines were the year you were born
Gallery Credit: Andrew Lisa