A comment period opened at the end of April, offering the community a
chance to provide feedback on a proposal to expand the boundary of the
Summit Ski Area. R.L.K. and Company, who has operated Timberline Lodge
since 1955, acquired the special use permit (SUP) for Summit in 2018, and
the proposed boundary expansion will create “permitted connectivity,” noted
Jon Tullis, Director of Public Affairs for Timberline.

The comment period will end on Tuesday, May 26.

“This is the first step to set the table,” Tullis said, describing it as a “mapping
exercise.”

In a 2019 Master Plan, future conceptual proposals for the two areas included
a new day lodge, a new quad chairlift, summer activities, improved parking
and transportation solutions and a gondola to offer an alternative way for
visitors to get from Summit to Timberline. Tullis noted that the plan was put
through a robust stakeholder process and built enthusiasm over the general
concept.

The proposed boundary expansion would amend the Summit SUP to add
approximately 206 acres to the permitted area. The expanded boundary
would include portions of the Alpine Trail and historic West Leg Road. There
would not include any ground disturbance or vegetation removal.
“This (boundary) proposal really changes nothing on the ground,” he added.
“We want to hear what the public has to say. The first indication was
enthusiastic.”

To read the scoping letter, visit
https://www.fs.usda.gov/projects/mthood/landmanagement/projects. For
more information about the 2019 Summit Master Plan, visit
www.summitskiarea.com.

Electronic comments, including attachments may be submitted to: comments-
pacificnorthwest-mthood-zigzag@usda.gov. Due to concerns regarding the

Covid-19 pandemic, electronic comments are strongly encouraged. Written
comments may also be submitted via mail (but not hand-delivered) to the
Zigzag Ranger Station at 70220 E Highway 26, Zigzag, OR 97049.