March 2016
No trip to Ashland would be complete without a visit to Mt. Ashland, and no visit to Mt. Ashland would be complete without a stop at Callahan’s Mountain Lodge, right east of the Mt. Ashland Exit 6.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal after a day of skiing or snowboarding, drinks on the outdoor deck after a summer hike on the nearby Pacific Crest Trail, or just want a great place to spend a few hours or a few days, Callahan’s is your place.
Donna and Ron Bergquist purchased the lodge from the Callahan family in 1996. They transformed that early structure built by Don Callahan in 1947 into one of the area’s most beautiful and popular resorts, nestled against the Siskiyou Mountains. The lodge seems worlds away, but is conveniently located just ten minutes south of Ashland, just off I-5.
The Bergquists’ commitment to continue the family legacy of the Callahans was put to the test by a devastating fire on the property in 2006. But bolstered by their love of the place and an outpouring of community support, they decided to rebuild. The resort came back stronger than ever.
“Our family has developed a strong connection and sense of identity with the business and the community,” Donna said.
The Bergquists are now transitioning operations of the resort to Donna’s sister, Jennifer Self, and her husband, Tim. Donna says she is delighted to hand over the reins to someone who loves the place as much as she and Ron do.
“Jennifer has been with us since we purchased Callahan’s,” Donna said, “and her children have grown up with the business and its traditions. We are confident that the connections we’ve developed will be sustained by Jennifer and her family, and that Callahans will remain family owned and operated.”
Jennifer and Tim are already planning to expand the lodge with additional lodge rooms and cabins, and a campground. Their four children and animal menagerie are already part of the Callahan’s family. In fact, their goats, Romeo and Bella, have their own Facebook and Twitter following.
“I expect that the goats will quickly become favorites among children and adults,” says Donna.
Delicious food. Live music every evening. Wally’s Bar. Warm and inviting accommodations with wood burning fireplaces. And open 365 days a year. Top that with a mission “to provide perfect food and perfect service to every guest, every time,” and it’s hard to imagine why you wouldn’t want to spend every free minute at Callahan’s Mountain Lodge.
For more information or reservations, call 541-482-1299 or visit their website at callahanslodge.com. You can also like them on Facebook.
