Forest Service News Release
Quick response by local fire departments minimizes damage to iconic Timberline Lodge
Sandy, Ore. (April 19, 2024) – Last night, fire departments from the Mt. Hood area and beyond responded to a three-alarm fire at historic Timberline Lodge. The fire departments, in coordination with Timberline Lodge employees, were quick to suppress the fire and ensure public and hotel guest safety. Although damage assessments have not yet begun, these efforts minimized the fire’s spread and prevented what could have been greater damages and losses.
The Forest Service is participating in the fire investigations with other federal law enforcement. Timberline Lodge and ski area, as well as the upper portion of Timberline Access Road are currently closed.
Responding agencies included Hoodland Fire District, Clackamas Fire Department, Estacada Fire District, Gresham Fire Department, Portland Fire and Rescue, and Oregon State Fire Marshal.
“We extend the deepest gratitude to all of the fire departments that responded so quickly to extinguish the fire at Timberline Lodge”, said Meta Loftsgaarden, Forest Supervisor for the Mt. Hood National Forest. “We know Timberline Lodge holds a special place in the fabric of Oregon’s and the nation’s history and culture. Structural assessments of the damages caused to the lodge as well as the cherished works inside of it will begin as soon as they safely can.”
Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1977, Timberline Lodge is one of Oregon’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing nearly two million visitors every year. Timberline Lodge operates under a special use permit issued by the Mt. Hood National Forest. Built during the Great Depression using craftspeople, artists, and workers employed through the Works Progress Administration and other New Deal programs, it continues to serve as an iconic ski lodge and mountain retreat.
Additional updates will be provided as they become available. Reopening information and hours of operations for Timberline Lodge and the ski area are at:
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