Photo: Eagle Point Resort
Utah’s devastating Cottonwood fire has been ablaze for more than a week now and has scorched more than 94,000 acres since June 22. Local businesses have burnt down, families have lost homes, and having only contained four percent of the fire so far, there are still many unknowns of what the toll will amount to. Beaver’s Eagle Point Resort, a small, 650-acre ski area sitting at about 10,000 feet in the Tushar Mountains, is one of the staples in that community that was in danger early on.
The resort announced on June 24 there had been significant property loss, but would have to wait for clearance before its employees could assess the full scale of damage. They finally got that chance on Tuesday and shared images of the destruction.
“First and foremost, our hearts are with everyone impacted by this fire,” they wrote. “While it’s heartbreaking to see the damage, we are incredibly grateful that everyone was evacuated safely and that no lives were lost at the resort. We also extend our deepest thanks to the firefighters, first responders, and members of the community who worked tirelessly to protect lives and property – your dedication and bravery made a meaningful difference.”
The statement acknowledged that this initial survey is not a full reflection of the damage, as far as they know. They did offer a list of damages to the resort that have been accounted for, and it appears the fire took a heavy toll. The losses include:
– Approximately 300 of the resort’s 600 acres of ski terrain were impacted on the south side of the mountain, primarily along Tushar Ridge (the “Steeps”)
– Canyonside Lodge, one of two day lodges, along with more than 100 condos and 30 cabins, were lost in the fire
– Four of five chairlifts sustained damage, though the full extent is still being determined
– The Warming Station on Tushar Ridge did not survive the fire
– Additional losses include five snowmobiles, three vehicles, and three storage containers containing tools
The resort also shared news of infrastructure that’s still intact, thankfully:
– Skyline Lodge, our main on-mountain facility
– Monarch lift on the north side of the resort and surrounding terrain
– Skyline terrain (minimal impact)
– Aspen Crest subdivision is mostly intact, with minimal tree damage
– Snowmaking pond and equipment
– Cell phone and internet towers
The losses are heavy, but Eagle Point’s messaging since the catastrophe began has consistently acknowledged the work of emergency responders as well as showing concern for community members impacted by the fires. It’s a reminder that familiar places like a local ski resort can bring a community together in times of need.
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