Industry News
Bluewood Ski Area will not open its long-anticipated Skyline Express lift this winter, citing a dispute with a lift broker that has delayed delivery of critical components. The high-speed quad, the first in the resort’s history, was slated to debut for the 2025-26 season. Bluewood shared in a letter on August 29 that while most of the infrastructure has already arrived, a few key parts remain tied up in the dispute, forcing the ski area to pause installation until spring 2026.
“Without the final parts on site, moving forward now would put your entire winter season at risk, a risk we are not willing to take,” Bluewood wrote in a letter to passholders on Friday.
Construction crews had already completed significant groundwork this summer, including excavation for tower pads, concrete foundations, and site preparation for the loading and unloading terminals. That work, management said, will allow for a quicker installation once the remaining equipment arrives. The Skyline Express will replace the aging Skyline Triple and increase uphill capacity by 25 percent, reducing wait times and improving access to summit terrain. Bluewood described it as the single largest lift upgrade in the ski area’s history.
Passholders affected by the delay will receive a $100 credit to use anywhere on the mountain this winter, including food, gear, and lessons. The resort said the credit applies to both existing and new season pass buyers.
Located in southeastern Washington near the town of Dayton, Bluewood is one of the state’s smaller ski areas but is known for its 300 inches of annual snowfall, family-friendly atmosphere, and absence of large crowds. The resort acknowledged disappointment among skiers and snowboarders who had hoped to ride the new lift this season but said the decision ensures reliable operations for the winter ahead.
“Your ability to ski and ride this season is our top priority,” the resort wrote. “We share your disappointment that it will not happen this season, but this is the right call.”
If construction stays on schedule in 2026, the Skyline Express is expected to be fully operational for the 2026-27 season.
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*A previous version of this article contained an inaccuracy and was updated at 11:55 a.m. PST on September 1, 2025.
