An Oregon ski area has added its first new chairlift in more than 35 years, and it’s opening will provide access to easier terrain to riders and skiers.
The Lithia Chair is a triple seater, and unlike many chairlifts, is powered by an electric motor, as opposed to diesel fuel. The chairlift installation has been years in the making, with the initial plan developed in 2004. The ski area’s staff started working with the U.S. Forest Service in 2022 to complete wildlife and cultural surveys, and finalize a plan.
The project was made possible by the largest donation in the ski area’s history. The Sid and Karen DeBoer Foundation donated $2 million, and Sid and Karen DeBoer donated an additional $500,000 themselves. The Deboer family are well known philanthropists in the Portland, Oregon-area. Their contributions to the region include a $250,000 donation to support a William Shakespeare literature festival.
Photo: Mt. Ashland
SkyTrac, the company that installed the chairlift, started on September 1, and the construction was done by October 24.
“This project represents years of planning, hard work and collaboration and is all about improving the experience for our community,” a press release said. “The Lithia Chairlift not only modernizes our infrastructure, but also sets the stage for future similar projects.”
Both easy and more difficult terrain will be accessible from the Lithia Chair. The ride will get snowboarders and skiers to the top of the Sonnet slope in 90 seconds, and the Poma Trail will now be directly accessible. Another easier trail named Bumblebee is planned for the near future, and will eventually be accessible from atop Sonnet Hill as well. There will also a designated area for local elementary and middle school ski racing teams, and adult race leagues will be hosted after lights are installed.
Photo: Mt. Ashland
“The Lithia Chair project has been a priority this year due to the need for a more well-rounded beginner program and learning progression for novice skiers and snowboarders,” the press release said. “Additionally, the Lithia Chair will be more resilient in higher winds that sometimes closes the Sonnet Chair. The trails Poma, Lupine, and Bumblebee are all planned to be lit for night skiing next season.”
Mt. Ashland has partially opened for the season, and will resume its full operations schedule on December 13, 2024. Uphill travel has been permitted midweek, though it ended December 11, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. There has been 83” of snowfall so far this season, and there’s currently a 30” base at the summit.
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