About Friends of Timberline
The Friends of Timberline restoration effort began in the mid-1970s when a guest casually remarked that the room curtains were “a bit shabby.” In response, Richard Kohnstamm, Area Operator of Timberline Lodge, enlisted civic leader Jack Mills to form a team focused on restoring the Lodge’s guest room and dining room textiles and Friends of Timberline was born in 1975.
Friends of Timberline is a long-standing collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service at Mount Hood, RLK and Company who operate the Lodge on a special use permit, with Our shared mission outlined in the “2015 Partnership Statement of Principles and Practices,” continues to guide our work to preserve Timberline Lodge’s historic structures while adapting to modern needs.
Together, our three organizations aim to maintain the Timberline Lodge Complex, honor their obligations to guests and the American public, and ensure their responsibilities as stewards and partners.
Simply put, here are the basics we work toward each, year in and year out:
■ Pursue common goals with the United States Forest Service and RLK and Company
■ Physical preservation and restoration project work
■ Fundraising via private donations and major grants for approved project work
■ Fundraising via membership dues and event revenue for daily operations
■ Public outreach and theme-based education across generations and communities
■ Documentation and archiving of Lodge history, use, art, artifacts and furnishings
More on Mount Hood National Forest
One of 154 national forests administered by the United States Forest Service (USFS), the Mount Hood National Forest is one of the most-visited National Forests and contains 170 developed recreation sites, including Timberline Lodge.
Zigzag Ranger District spans parts of the south and west side of Mount Hood and is comprised of 250,000 acres. The district manages 30 developed campgrounds, 3 ski areas including Timberline, over 300 miles of trails, 2 wilderness areas, and many special use permits.
More on RLK and Company
Onsite at Timberline Lodge since 1955, RLK and Company operates on a 1,419 acre special use area under a permit issued by the Mt. Hood National Forest, USDA Forest Service.
Richard L. Kohnstamm (1926-2006) will always be remembered as “the man who saved Timberline Lodge.” Still referred to as “Mr. K” even today, his life story and hard- earned successes are well documented. Dick had the ability to attract new friends and generate loyalty that spanned continents and lasted a lifetime. R.L.K. and Company takes pride in its commitment to hospitality and guest services, hosting more than 2 million visitors from around the world each year.