Timberline Lodge will reopen to guests after brief closure caused by fire

After a fire in the attic of the historic Timberline Lodge caused a late-night evacuation and closure on Thursday, April 18, the hotel is reopened to guests starting Sunday, April 21. The Cascade Dining Room will be open at 10 a.m., Sunday, for breakfast service.

“Plans are in place to help guests navigate hotel repairs and ongoing water remediation,” said John Burton, Timberline public affairs director. “Historical preservation efforts are also underway. There are challenges ahead, but we are through the worst of it.”

It was around 9:30 p.m., Thursday, April 18, when a staffer at Timberline Lodge reported a fire in the headhouse attic and its exterior roof area. All hotel guests and staff were evacuated. Scores of firefighters made their way up the mountain to combat the three-alarm blaze. Fortunately for all involved, there was minimal damage and no injuries.

Fire crews from Hoodland Fire, Clackamas Fire, Gresham Fire and Estacada Fire responded to protect the building. First responders were able to extinguish the fire by 11 p.m.

“The process, communication and containment saved the Historic Timberline Lodge from what could have been a much worse outcome,” the lodge wrote in a statement following the fire.

There is an ongoing investigation into the cause of the fire, helmed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Forest Service. That investigation led to the closure of the lodge and ski area Friday, April 19. Fire investigators say preliminary thoughts are that fireplace embers ignited the roof.

According to the lodge, the damage is “somewhat minimal, with water contained in the headhouse and lobby areas and no internal fire or smoke damage.”

Power was restored following the fire being doused, and guests were moved offsite.

“First responder and Timberline staff efforts have been nothing short of remarkable during a very difficult time,” Burton said. “The successful recovery is because of their dedication. The deepest appreciation is not only extended from everyone here at the Historic Lodge, but by past, present and future visitors.”