LAKE CRESCENT — Aramark Parks and Destinations has extended its reach into Olympic National Park.
With no bid from long-time concessionaire Forever Resorts, the National Park Service on Thursday announced it had awarded a 10-year contract to operate Lake Crescent Lodge and the stores at Hurricane Ridge and Fairholme.
The contract went into effect on Monday.
Aramark already manages Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, Kalaloch Lodge and Lake Quinault Lodge.
David Freireich, Aramark spokesman, said the National Park Service awarded the contract to operate the historic lodge on the scenic, glacially carved lake west of Port Angeles after formerly requesting proposals.
“As far as what set us apart, obviously we have quite a presence out on the [North Olympic] Peninsula,” Freireich said on Friday.
“We like to think that it’s somewhat of a reflection of our service.”
Freireich said Aramark earned a good reputation with the National Park Service for managing other properties in Olympic National Park, where it has a 25-year presence.
Forever Resorts, another respected concessionaire with a national reach, did not bid to renew its contract to operate Lake Crescent Lodge, Hurricane Ridge or Fairholme.
No bid
“We chose not to bid on the contract,” said Darla Cook, Forever Resorts spokeswoman.
When asked why Forever Resorts did not bid to renew the contract, Cook said she could not say.
“All I know is we decided not to bid on the contract,” she said.
The 94-year-old Lake Crescent Lodge near U.S. Highway 101 on the south shore of the lake is one of the signature attractions of the 922,651-acre park.
“The addition of Lake Crescent Lodge to our portfolio is a reflection of the outstanding job our team has done managing the other three Olympic Peninsula properties,” said Bruce Fears, Aramark Parks and Destinations president, in a prepared statement.
“We look forward to continuing our work with the National Park Service and the surrounding community to further enhance the experience for guests visiting Olympic National Park.”
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Reporter Rob Ollikainen can be reached at 360-417-3537 or at rob.ollikainen@peninsuladailynews.com.