Bluewood Pauses First High-Speed Chairlift Until 2026 Due To Legal Action With Supplier

Ski Bluewood, an alpine ski area in the northwestern United States, in southeastern Washington in Columbia County has paused construction of its new high speed lift for the upcoming season. 

In a letter to passholders they say:

"As many of you know, this Summer we had every intention of installing the new Skyline Express. It is a major upgrade and the first high speed lift in Bluewood’s history. We are beyond excited, and we know many of you are too. 

"Unfortunately, due to an ongoing dispute with the lift broker, a few key components of the lift have been significantly delayed. While most of the equipment has already arrived at Bluewood, the final shipments are being held beyond our control and have not yet arrived. Because of this delay our deadline has passed for installation this season. We have taken formal legal action to resolve the situation and secure delivery of the remaining parts. Although that legal process is moving forward, it is not moving fast enough to be installed this winter. As a result, a complete installation of the new lift is being paused until Spring of 2026.

"Because the current lift must be fully dismantled before the new one can be installed, starting the process without every component on site would put us at serious risk of not being able to open this winter at all. That is simply not a risk we are willing to take. Your ability to ski & ride this season is our top priority.

"Here is the good news. This Summer, we have already dug tower pads along the entire lift line, started pouring the concrete footings for the new towers and prepared the loading and unloading terminal sites. We will continue working on the groundwork right up until winter to ensure we are ready to move quickly this spring once the final shipments arrive. We are doing everything in our power to ensure the new Skyline Express high-speed quad will be spinning for the 2026-2027 season, and we cannot wait to share that first ride with you.

"Earlier this year, we committed to issuing a $100 credit if the new lift wasn’t installed in time for the 2025-2026 season. We are honoring that commitment. Whether you’ve already purchased a pass or still plan to before the season starts, you will receive a $100 credit on your pass when the season begins. The credit can be used anywhere on the mountain - food, gear, lessons, whatever you like. For all the details please visit our webpage.

"We know many of you have been looking forward to this upgrade for a long time. We share your disappointment that it will not happen this season, but this is the right call. Ensuring a full winter of skiing & riding now with a high-speed future just around the corner."

Of its 24 runs, Bluewood has 4 green circles (easiest), 12 blue squares (more difficult), and 8 black diamonds (most difficult). Additionally, there is one terrain park and six backcountry runs. The area is open five days per week, Wednesday through Sunday, plus holidays. Bluewood has a reputation for dry powder snow, tree skiing, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Will Brandenburg, a World Cup racer with the U.S. Ski Team, learned to ski and race at Bluewood in the 1990s.