Yodelin
(east
side of Stevens Pass) (1961-1974) Vertical Drop: Top: Base: Lifts: 2 Double Chairs, Tows Note: A huge avalanche in 1971 destroyed the
surrounding area and helped lead to the area's downfall. Jan 25, 1971 - "Four die as snowslide
crushes
Yodelin cabins" An avalanche 100 feet wide by 400 feet long
crushed two cabins, killing two adults and two children. Stevens
Pass was closed for four consecutive days due to continuing avalanche
danger
. The developers of the Yodelin Ski Resort were
warned two years earlier about avalanche danger in the area, based on
observations
by Edward R. LaChapelle of the University of Washington. The developers
fought back and the state backed off because it was powerless to do
anything,
according to Governor Dan Evans. Claims totaling $2 million were filed against
the county, state and the developers by the survivors, the estate of
the
victims, and other parties. In 1976 Stevens Pass ski resort purchased
from the mortgage holders what was left of the defunct Yodelin Ski Area
– including a chairlift, which after extensive upgrading was
helicoptered
one mile up the valley to become Stevens Pass No.7 “Tye-Mill” lift,
opening
up new skiing terrain. The other lift was sold to Crystal Mountain
and was installed as Chair 6-Upper Cambell chair.
