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| 6/19/2008 2:36:00 PM | Email this article • Print this article
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| Michael Burkett/Chieftain |
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Wallowa Lake Tramway back on the ascent
A Wallowa County landmark is expected to be back in business soon. Optimistic mechanics had expected the completely repaired tram to be back in business by June 21, but parts on order have pushed the opening date back, according to tram owner Bill Whittemore. "We're going right along," Whittemore said, "but the long winter weather delayed us and now we've got some parts in transit - we still don't know when we're going to open."
Head tram mechanic Martin Doud was nevertheless confident that the tram would pass it's next safety insection. " We've completely inspected and repaired the tram and we'll have a smooth running machine," he said. "We'll be keeping a part of local history alive."
Former restaurant manager Mark Nuff is now operations manager and is looking forward to a good year at the popular tourist attraction. "This thing is going to run like a top," he said. "We're getting calls about using the tram already."
The tramway, which is currently owned by Mike Lockhart and Bill Whittemore, was built in summer of 1970 for a cost of $700,000.
The gondolas climb 3,700 vertical feet to the summit of Mt. Howard where visitors can enjoy hikes, hang-gliding, or a high-altitude (approximately 9,000 feet) meal at the Summit Grill and Alpine Patio.
Ride rates for 2008 are as follows: 18 to adult, $22; ages 12 to 17, $18; ages 4 to 11, $14; ages 3 and younger, free. The two-day rate is $30, $26, $22 per age group. Call the Tramway at (541) 432-5331.
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