Alpental’s Edelweiss chair fundraiser raises $194,000+ for local nonprofits
Funds to be donated to local schools and community nonprofits
Alpental’s Edelweiss chair auction raises $194,000+ for local nonprofits
- Funds to be donated to local schools and community nonprofits
SNOQUALMIE PASS, WA – August 12, 2025 – Alpentalis proud to announce thatthebeloved EdelweissRiblet double chairlifthas raised $194,343.11 for local community organizations,demonstrating the ski area's deep-rooted commitment to supporting the communities of Snoqualmie Valley and Upper Kittitas County. The originalchairlift was decommissioned this spring to make way for the new Edelweiss Triple Chair.
The fundraising effort included an online auction of the original Riblet double chairs, the upper and lower bullwheels, and the chair’s vintage auxiliary motor. Proceeds will benefit local education nonprofits that serve the community year-round.
“The success of the auction reflects the emotional connection that generations of skiers and snowboarders have formed with the Edelweiss chair,” said Guy Lawrence, general manager of Summit at Snoqualmie and Alpental. “The nonprofits we’re supportingaren't just our neighbors – they're our guests, our team members, and the families of our team members. At the end of the day, the children in our local community are the mountain's future."
Nonprofit Beneficiaries:
- Snoqualmie Valley School District
- "The Summit at Snoqualmie has a strong tradition of giving back," said Dan Schlotfeldt, superintendent, Snoqualmie Valley School District. "With this latest gift, we will be able to expand programs that nurture innovation, connection, and student success. The benefits will reach every corner of our district."
- Cle Elum-Roslyn Schools Foundation
- “The funds donated through chair lift sales are helping us directly address real challenges facing our youth: physical inactivity, rising screen time, and the growing need for mental health support,” added John Belcher, superintendent of the Cle Elum-Roslyn School District. “Dozens of students have learned to ski for the first time thanks to this partnership."
- Easton School District
- “With the State of Washington recently cancelling all Outdoor Education funding for schools, the timing of this incredible donation from The Summit at Snoqualmie is perfect,” said Aaron Kombol, superintendent and principal, Easton School District. “Easton School District will be able to continue to provide outdoor learning experiences and opportunities for all our students."
- Encompass NW
- “The purpose of Encompass is to improve the well-being of children through partnerships with families and the community. When community partners walk alongside us with support, it means we can continue offering best-in-class programs and services for children and families,” said Nela Cumming, executive director, Encompass NW.
Edelweiss Triple Chair Brings Major Upgrades to Alpental
Construction continues on Alpental's new Edelweiss Triple Chair, set to debut this winter with significant improvements to the overall mountain experience.
The new chairlift will run faster than its predecessor, cutting ride time by 30 percent. Uphill capacitywill increase up to 40 percentwhile heavier carriers and a larger rope provide enhanced wind resistance, reducing weather-related downtime.
The new lift features longer, 7.7-second loading intervals between each chair—achieved through increased carrier spacing. This gives riders more time to load and unload safely while maintaining fast ride times, dramatically reducing lift slowdowns and stops.
“Combined with Alpental’s Internationale Lift, which debuted last winter, these consistent upgrades will reduce lift lines and leave more time for what our guests come here for—the legendary skiing and riding,” added Lawrence.
Construction of the new Edelweiss chairlift remains on schedule for the 2025-26 winter season, with the opening anticipated in December.
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About Alpental:
Alpental, one of four distinct areas at TheSummit of Snoqualmie, is a bucket list ski destination located just 45 minutes from Seattle. Alpental's legendary terrain is served by six lifts across 825 acres and 2,290 feet of vertical. Steep, deep, and full of character - Alpental always provides fun, challenging experiences.