1800s to 1900s
The Yakama and P’squosa Native American tribes were the first human inhabitants of the site known as “Na-sik-elt”, or Narrow Bottom Canyon, which eventually became home to Sleeping Lady. The P’squosa tribe is now recognized by the Yakama name for them, Wenatchi.
1930s to 1940s
The site was home to the 983rd Company of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and was known as Camp Icicle. The barracks and buildings housed 200 young men and many of these structures remain on-site today.
1940s to 1950s
In 1946, the CCC cabins were redeveloped into a private, family-oriented ranch named Icicle River Ranch.
1950s to 1990s
The property was sold to the Yakima Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church in 1957 and renamed Camp Field. It operated as a camp for young people ages eight and up, as well as an off-season adult retreat center. Honor Plaques, awarded to one lodge at the final campfire of each session, adorn walls in Flicker and Salmon Gallery.
1990s to Present
In 1991, the property was once again put up for sale and Harriet Bullitt, longtime owner of neighboring property, purchased all 67 acres to preserve the land. Bullitt named the property Sleeping Lady after the mountain profile above the narrow valley. Historical and environmental considerations saved all 18 of the original buildings for the new site plan. In 1994, the buildings were remodeled to meet or exceed current building and energy codes and new buildings were constructed to blend in with the original style. Sleeping Lady welcomed its first guests in August 1995.
Icicle Fund
At Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, we believe in travel with a purpose. Every time you visit the spa, enjoy a meal or stay with us, a portion of every dollar you spend benefits the Icicle Fund - a non-profit organization founded by Sleeping Lady’s founder, Harriet Bullitt. Icicle Fund supports other local North Central Washington organizations whose work aligns with Fund’s mission of engaging people with arts, history and the natural environment.
Since its inception in 1999, the Icicle Fund has invested more than $40 million in over 100 organizations in our region. Results have included access to the arts for kids and adults, increases in wildfire preparedness, expanded hiking trails, open spaces and much more.
And now, you have the ability to advance this important work when you stay, dine and relax with us. We are so thankful to Harriet for her vision in creating Sleeping Lady here and her gift, ensuring it will continue to nurture all who visit!
For examples of how your stay at Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort supports our community and beyond, please visit https://iciclefund.org/sleeping-lady-mountain-resort .