Oregon — Timberline Lodge and Ski Area issued a public message to Oregonians explaining sharp price increases this season, blaming Oregon’s “broken recreational liability system” for an insurance crisis driving up costs statewide.
According to Timberline, its insurance carrier announced in June it would leave Oregon effective October 1, citing the state’s unworkable liability environment. The resort was able to find coverage for the 2025–26 ski season, but only at dramatically higher costs:
- Liability insurance premiums have increased by 166% over last year.
- The deductible is now ten times higher.
- Since 2020, insurance costs have risen 586% overall.
“These changes create unsustainable financial pressure,” the message stated. “We are absorbing as much of this cost as possible, but cannot shoulder all of it.”
As a result, Timberline said guests will see price increases for peak-time lift tickets, Tier 2 season passes, and summer ski products. The resort warned that without state-level liability reform, Oregon could face higher costs, reduced recreation opportunities, and economic harm to rural communities that depend on tourism.
Timberline expressed disappointment that legislative efforts to address the issue — House Bill 3140 and Senate Bill 1196 — were not advanced during the most recent session.
The resort urged Oregonians to learn more and advocate for reform through protectoregonrec.org, saying, “Together, we can push for the changes needed to keep Oregon a place where outdoor access thrives.”
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