Fire
Industry News
Late last night, Thursday, April 18, a three-alarm fire erupted in the attic of the historic Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood, Oregon, prompting an immediate evacuation of the premises. The fire, reported around 9:30 p.m., drew a rapid response from multiple fire departments, including Clackamas, Hoodland, Gresham, and Estacada.
The extent of the damage caused by the fire at Timberline Lodge is currently unknown. However, it was reported that the fire did some minor damage in the housekeeping area, but the lodge is okay.
The fire at Timberline Lodge was declared under control at 11:12 p.m. The fire was kept to the roof & part of the attic, & didn’t spread any further. Crews are clearing the scene. The U.S. Forest Service will be conducting the investigation with the help of federal resources. pic.twitter.com/IRoTpyB0WV
— Clackamas Fire (@clackamasfire) April 19, 2024
The Clackamas Fire District reported that the blaze was successfully knocked down by 11:00 p.m., approximately 90 minutes after it was initially reported. Firefighters focused on preserving the historic elements of the nearly century-old lodge, which is a designated National Historic Landmark and a popular tourist attraction.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the fire. An initial search confirmed that all individuals inside the lodge had been safely evacuated. Scott Kline, the Hoodland Fire Chief, expressed gratitude for the swift and effective response from all units involved.
In a statement on social media, Timberline Lodge Ski Area announced that the ski resort will be closed today, Friday, April 19.
“Thursday night, at approximately 9:30pm a fire was reported at Timberline Lodge in the headhouse attic and its exterior roof area. All hotel guests and staff were immediately evacuated with no injuries or incident. First responders were on scene shortly thereafter, extinguishing the fire by approximately 11:00pm. There is an ongoing investigation as to the cause, but it is suspected fireplace embers ignited the roof. At first glance, the damage is somewhat minimal with water contained in headhouse and lobby areas and no internal fire or smoke damage. Power has been restored and guests have been moved offsite.
The hotel will be closed until further notice. The ski area will be closed today Friday April 19. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.
Timberline employees, Hoodland Fire, Clackamas County and Gresham first responders did an amazing job. The process, communication and containment saved the Historic Timberline Lodge from what could have been a much worse outcome.”
Timberline Lodge, renowned for its distinctive architecture and historical significance, was constructed in the 1930s under the Works Progress Administration and was dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1937. The lodge is not only a beloved ski resort but also gained additional fame as a filming location for the exterior shots of the Overlook Hotel in Stanley Kubrick’s iconic film, “The Shining.”
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the US Forest Service with assistance from federal resources. It is suspected that fireplace embers ignited the roof.
Timberline Lodge has seen 514″ of snow this season and has a 130″ base. Timberline boasts the longest ski season in the country, usually operating well into September. The skiing takes place on the Palmer snowfield accessed by the Magic Mile and Palmer chairlifts.
