New Ski Lodge Building Expansion

IMEG provided structural engineering and design services for the 23,500-sf Sahale Lodge, a new building addition at Mt. Hood Meadows. The Sahale Lodge connects to the existing South Lodge by a second-floor skywalk or pedestrian bridge.

The extreme high-altitude environment presented the greatest challenge for the design team with up to 20 feet of snow in the winter, 650 PSF ground snow loads, and the impact of summer heat. To withstand such climate extremes, the gauge of metal on the exterior is up to ¼” thick in some places. The contemporary mountain style design features a heated butterfly roof with 14-ft roof cantilevers that feeds the adjacent wetlands. The steel structural system and detailing complement the industrial aesthetic of the existing lodge, while the warm colors of the concrete panels and light wood accents create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Sahale Lodge provides dining and resort services space and is the new home of the Meadows Learning Center and the new ski and snowboard equipment rental center. The second-floor features over 10,000-sf and 230 seats for dining, a bar and outdoor deck. Sahale Lodge and the existing space reutilization increased the lodge seating by 900.