Snoqualmie Tribe Buys Salish Lodge, Nearby Land For $125 Million

SNOQUALMIE, WA — The Snoqualmie Tribe announced a $125 million deal Friday to buy the Salish Lodge, and 45 acres surrounding Snoqualmie Falls, from the Muckleshoot Tribe. The agreement will also cancel construction plans in the area, where the Muckleshoot Tribe had been approved to build housing and a conference center.

“This purchase represents the Snoqualmie Tribe’s ongoing work to reclaim its traditional lands and will allow the Snoqualmie people to appropriately care for our sacred Falls and share it with all who wish to experience the powerful connection,” said Robert de los Angeles, Snoqualmie Tribal Chairman.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Muckleshoot Tribe for their willingness to partner in our goal of protecting and preserving this sacred area.”

The Muckleshoot Tribe bought Salish Lodge in 2007 to help diversify their economy. In Friday's annoucement, Muckleshoot Tribal Chairman Jaison Elkins called the deal a win for all.

"Knowing that its ownership will remain local with our neighbor Tribe is a positive for the region and all Indian Country," Elkins said.

"This sale is a prime example of Indian Self Determination and how Tribal nations can conduct business in a culturally sensitive way."

According to tribal leaders, the purchase includes the Salish Lodge & Spa, the Snoqualmie Falls Gift Shop, and land north of and across from State Route 202. The Salish Lodge will continue to be operated by Columbia Hospitality Inc. The Seattle Times reports the deal does not include Snoqualmie Falls itself, where Puget Sound Energy operates two hydroelectric facilities, but the tribe plans to pursue an agreement with the state.