Our History An Oregon Icon
Constructed in 1937, Timberline Lodge stands on the south slope of Mt. Hood at an elevation of 6,000 feet. This beautiful 55,000 square foot structure rises out of a pristine alpine landscape and is still being used for its original intent – a magnificent ski lodge and mountain retreat for everyone to enjoy. Legendary and awe-inspiring, it's a tribute to the rugged spirit of the Pacific Northwest. 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.
Richard L. Kohnstamm
R.L.K. and Company's founder, Richard L. Kohnstamm, signed the lease to operate Timberline in 1955, saving the lodge from complete deterioration. He promised to honor the connection of nature, outdoor recreation, and history at Timberline. His son, Jeff, continues to honor that commitment as the second generation area operator.
A Presidential Dedication
During the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt created several social and economic programs such as the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). These programs provided relief through public employment and funded the majority of Timberline’s construction.
On the morning of September 28, 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, dedicated the lodge, proclaiming that Timberline was a “monument to the skill and faithful performance of workers.”
Built by Hand, Built to Last
Completed in just 18 months during the Great Depression, Timberline Lodge was built by more than 500 workers through the Works Progress Administration. Using traditional handcrafting techniques, they shaped local volcanic stone, massive timbers, and hand-forged iron into both the structure and its furnishings—creating a rugged, artistic tribute to the spirit of American craftsmanship.
From Closure to Comeback
After thriving in its early years, the lodge saw business drop sharply during World War II, eventually closing in 1942. It remained mostly shuttered during the war and postwar years, falling into disrepair. By 1955, it was officially closed. Later that year, Richard Kohnstamm took over operations and began the long process of revitalization.
Preserving the Past, Building the Future
In the 1970s and 1980s, Timberline Lodge saw major growth and recognition. The east wing was completed in 1975, and the Friends of Timberline formed to help preserve its historic character. The lodge was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977, and the Palmer chairlift opened in 1978, making summer skiing possible. The Wy’East Day Lodge followed in 1981, expanding guest services.
A New Era
In the mid-1980s, Timberline embraced the rise of snowboarding, with young riders digging the first hand-built half-pipes and helping pioneer terrain park design. In 1987, Richard Kohnstamm’s son Jeff joined the team, later becoming president of R.L.K. and Company in 1992—a role he still holds today. In 2006, there was a collective birthday party when the United States Forest Service turned 100, R.L.K. and Company turned 50, and the Friends of Timberline turned 30. Richard passed away in April 2006. In 2009, Congress designated a 126-acre parcel of land above the Palmer ski lift as the Richard L. Kohnstamm Memorial Wilderness Area.
Timberline Levels Up
In 2018, Timberline acquired Summit Ski Area, now known as Timberline Summit Pass. Established in 1927, it’s the oldest ski area in the Pacific Northwest. That same year, construction began on the Timberline Bike Park, which opened in 2019. A 2021 permit allowed Timberline to connect Summit Pass and Timberline Lodge, creating the longest vertical terrain in the U.S. at 4,540 feet. A shuttle currently links the two, with trail improvements underway and plans for a gondola in the future.
A Mountain of History
